10 Ways To Join Indian Army In 2025

Joining the Indian Army is a prestigious aspiration for many young individuals who wish to serve their nation. The recruitment process offers various pathways, each catering to different educational backgrounds and age groups. In 2025, aspiring candidates can explore multiple avenues to become officers in the Indian Army.

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the different ways to join the Indian Army in 2025, detailing the eligibility criteria, selection processes, and training involved in each pathway.

National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam

The National Defence Academy (NDA) is one of the most sought-after institutions for aspiring officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the NDA exam is held twice a year, allowing candidates to join the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings.

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Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Candidates must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years old.
• Education: A minimum of 10+2 education with a focus on Mathematics and Physics is required.

Selection Process

1. Written Examination: Candidates must first clear a written test that assesses their knowledge in subjects such as Mathematics and General Studies.
2. SSB Interview: Those who qualify the written exam will be called for an interview conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB).
3. Medical Examination: Successful candidates will undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the required health standards.

Training

Upon selection, candidates will undergo a rigorous three-year training program at the NDA in Khadakwasla, Pune, where they will receive comprehensive military training alongside academic education.

Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam is another prominent route to join the Indian Army, conducted by the UPSC. This examination is designed for graduates who wish to pursue a career in the armed forces.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Candidates must be between 19 and 24 years old.
• Education: A graduation degree in any discipline is required for the Indian Military Academy (IMA) and the Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).

Selection Process

1. Written Examination: Candidates must clear a written exam that includes subjects relevant to their chosen stream.
2. SSB Interview: Those who pass the written test will be called for an SSB interview.
3. Medical Examination: A thorough medical check-up follows the interview stage.

Training

Successful candidates will undergo training at the respective academies, with the IMA offering a longer training duration compared to the OTA.

Technical Entry Scheme (TES)

The Technical Entry Scheme (TES) provides a pathway for students with a technical background to join the Indian Army. This scheme is specifically designed for candidates who have completed their 10+2 education with a focus on technical subjects.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Candidates must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years old.
• Education: A minimum of 70% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics in the 10+2 examination is required.

Selection Process

1. Shortlisting: Candidates are shortlisted based on their academic performance.
2. SSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an SSB interview.
3. Medical Examination: A medical examination is conducted after the interview.

Training

Selected candidates undergo a one-year basic military training followed by a three-year engineering degree course in their respective streams.

Technical Graduates Course (TGC)

The Technical Graduates Course (TGC) is designed for engineering graduates who wish to join the Indian Army as officers.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Candidates must be between 20 and 27 years old.
• Education: A degree in engineering with a minimum of 50% marks is required.

Selection Process

1. Shortlisting: Candidates are shortlisted based on their engineering percentage.
2. SSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an SSB interview.
3. Medical Examination: Candidates must undergo a medical examination post-interview.

Training

Once selected, candidates will receive one year of pre-commission training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) before being commissioned as officers.

Short Service Commission (Technical) Entry

The Short Service Commission (Technical) entry is another opportunity for engineering graduates to join the Indian Army.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Candidates must be between 20 and 27 years old.
• Education: A degree in engineering is required.

Selection Process

1. Shortlisting: Candidates are shortlisted based on their academic performance.
2. SSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates will attend an SSB interview.
3. Medical Examination: A medical evaluation is conducted following the interview.

Training

Selected candidates will undergo approximately 49 weeks of training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, before being commissioned as Short Service Commissioned Officers.

Army Medical Corps and Military Nursing Service (MNS)

Candidates with a medical or nursing background can join the Indian Army through the Army Medical Corps or Military Nursing Service.

Eligibility Criteria for Army Medical Corps

• Age: Candidates must be between 20 and 30 years old.
• Education: An MBBS degree is required.

Eligibility Criteria for Military Nursing Service

• Age: Candidates must be between 17 and 25 years old.
• Education: A BSc Nursing degree is required.

Selection Process

1. Written Examination: Candidates must clear a written test specific to their field.
2. SSB Interview: An interview conducted by the SSB follows the written examination.
3. Medical Examination: Candidates undergo a medical examination to ensure fitness.

Training

Selected candidates will receive specialized training in their respective fields, preparing them for service in the Army.

Judge Advocate General (JAG) Entry

The Judge Advocate General (JAG) entry is designed for law graduates who wish to serve in the legal capacity within the Indian Army.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Candidates must be between 21 and 27 years old.
• Education: A degree in law (LLB) with a minimum of 55% marks is required.

Selection Process

1. Direct SSB Interview: Candidates are called for a direct SSB interview.
2. Medical Examination: A medical check-up follows the interview.

Training

Selected candidates will undergo training at the OTA, Chennai, before being commissioned into the JAG branch.

NCC Special Entry Scheme

The National Cadet Corps (NCC) Special Entry Scheme allows candidates with an NCC ‘C’ certificate to join the Indian Army without a written examination.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Candidates must be between 19 and 25 years old.
• Education: A graduation degree with a minimum of 50% marks is required.

Selection Process

1. Direct SSB Interview: Candidates with the NCC ‘C’ certificate are called for an SSB interview.
2. Medical Examination: A medical evaluation is conducted post-interview.

Training

Selected candidates will undergo training at the OTA, Chennai, before being commissioned as officers.

Special Commissioned Officers (SCO) Scheme

The Special Commissioned Officers (SCO) scheme is tailored for Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) who wish to become commissioned officers.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Candidates must be between 28 and 35 years old.
• Education: A minimum of 10+2 education is required.

Selection Process

1. SSB Interview: Candidates will undergo an SSB interview.
2. Medical Examination: A medical check-up follows the interview.

Training

Selected candidates will receive pre-commission training at the OTA, Gaya.

Permanent Commission (Special List) (PC SL)

The Permanent Commission (Special List) allows eligible JCOs and NCOs to obtain a permanent commission in the Indian Army.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Candidates must be up to 42 years old.
• Education: A minimum of 10 years of service is required.

Selection Process

1. SSB Interview: Candidates will undergo an SSB interview.
2. Medical Examination: A medical evaluation is conducted following the interview.

Training

Selected candidates will receive orientation training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) before being commissioned.

Conclusion

Joining the Indian Army in 2025 offers a myriad of opportunities for aspiring candidates. Whether through the NDA, CDS, or specialized entry schemes, each pathway has its unique requirements and selection processes. It’s essential for candidates to thoroughly prepare for the entrance exams and selection interviews, focusing on physical fitness, general knowledge, and effective communication skills. By understanding the various ways to join the Indian Army, candidates can take proactive steps towards a rewarding and honorable career in service to the nation.

FAQs

Also Read:

• How To Join IMA – Indian Military Academy
• 4 Ways To Join OTA Chennai
• How To Join The National Defence Academy