The Indian Army offers numerous opportunities for aspirants who dream of serving the nation. Whether you are a school graduate, college student, or professional, there are various entry schemes to join the Army as an officer. Here are the 11 ways to join the Indian Army in 2025:
11 Ways To Join Indian Army in 2025
1. National Defence Academy (NDA)
Eligibility:
- For male and female candidates who have completed 10+2.
- Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years.
Selection Process:
- Conducted by UPSC twice a year.
- Written exam covering Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT).
- SSB interview and medical examination.
Training:
- Three years at NDA, Khadakwasla.
- One year at Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun.
2. Combined Defence Services (CDS)
Eligibility:
- Graduate degree holders (B.A./B.Sc./B.Com./B.Tech. etc.).
- Age: 19 to 24 years (IMA), 19 to 25 years (OTA).
Selection Process:
- Conducted by UPSC twice a year.
- Written exam covering English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (except OTA candidates).
- SSB interview and medical examination.
Training:
- IMA for permanent commission.
- OTA (Chennai) for short service commission.
3. Technical Entry Scheme (TES)
Eligibility:
- 10+2 students with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) and at least 60% marks.
- JEE Mains is compulsory.
- Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years.
Selection Process:
- Direct SSB interview based on merit.
- Medical examination.
Training:
- Basic training at OTA, Gaya.
- Engineering training at CME, MCTE, or MCEME.
4. Short Service Commission (Technical) – SSC (Tech)
Eligibility:
- Engineering graduates (male & female).
- Age: 20 to 27 years.
Selection Process:
- Direct SSB call based on academic performance.
- Medical examination.
Training:
- Short service tenure of 10-14 years with an option to opt for a permanent commission.
- Training at OTA, Chennai.
5. Technical Graduate Course (TGC)
Eligibility:
- Engineering graduates (male only).
- Age: 20 to 27 years.
Selection Process:
- Direct SSB interview based on merit.
- Medical examination.
Training:
- Permanent commission granted after training at IMA, Dehradun.
6. NCC Special Entry
Eligibility:
- NCC ‘C’ Certificate holders with a minimum ‘B’ grade.
- Graduate degree with at least 50% marks.
- Age: 19 to 25 years.
Selection Process:
- No written exam.
- Direct SSB interview.
- Medical examination.
Training:
- OTA, Chennai for short service commission.
7. Army Cadet College (ACC) Entry
Eligibility:
- For serving soldiers and NCOs (Non-Commissioned Officers) of the Army.
- Age: 20 to 27 years.
Selection Process:
- Written exam conducted by the Army.
- SSB interview and medical examination.
Training:
- Three years at the Army Cadet College Wing at IMA, Dehradun.
8. Territorial Army (TA)
Eligibility:
- Employed civilians or ex-servicemen who wish to serve in a part-time capacity.
- Age: 18 to 42 years.
Selection Process:
- Written exam covering reasoning, general knowledge, and elementary mathematics.
- SSB interview and medical examination.
Training:
- Officers serve on a part-time basis alongside their civilian careers.
9. Permanent Commission Special List (PCSL)
Eligibility:
- For serving personnel (JCOs and NCOs) of the Army.
- Age: Below 42 years.
Selection Process:
- Recommendation from commanding officers.
- Selection board review.
- Training at IMA, Dehradun.
10. Special Commissioned Officers (SCO) Entry
Eligibility:
- For serving JCOs and NCOs with 10+2 qualifications.
- Age: 30 to 35 years.
Selection Process:
- Written exam, SSB interview, and medical examination.
Training:
- Officers undergo training at IMA, Dehradun.
11. Judge Advocate General (JAG) Entry
Eligibility:
- Law graduates (LLB) with at least 55% marks.
- Age: 21 to 27 years.
Selection Process:
- Direct SSB interview based on merit.
- Medical examination.
Training:
- Commissioned as an officer in the Judge Advocate General Department.
- Training at OTA, Chennai.
Conclusion
The Indian Army provides diverse opportunities for candidates from different educational backgrounds. Each entry scheme has its own specific selection criteria, training structure, and career progression paths. Whether through NDA for young aspirants, CDS for graduates, TES for technical minds, or specialized routes like ACC and PCSL for serving personnel, the Indian Army ensures a structured way for dedicated individuals to serve the nation with honor. Candidates must carefully assess their eligibility and prepare diligently for their chosen entry route to successfully join the esteemed ranks of the Indian Army in 2025.
