🪖 How to Join the Indian Army: A Complete Guide to Serve the Nation
Join the Indian Army
The Indian Army is the most respected and powerful military forces in the world. For many young Indians, wearing the olive green uniform is not just a job—it’s a lifelong dream and a matter of honor. The process of joining the Indian Army, however, varies depending on your educational qualifications, age, and the type of entry you’re eligible for.
In this article, we break down the major pathways to join the Indian Army, whether you’re a high school student, a graduate, or a medical professional.
⸻
🇮🇳 1. Joining After 10+2 (Class 12th)
(A) National Defence Academy (NDA) Entry
• Eligibility: Only male candidates aged 16.5 to 19.5 years
• Qualification: Passed or appearing in Class 12
• Selection: NDA written exam by UPSC + SSB interview
• Training: 3 years at NDA, Pune + 1 year at IMA, Dehradun
(B) Technical Entry Scheme (TES)
• Eligibility: Minimum 60% in PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Maths)
• Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years
• Selection: marks on 12th based + SSB interview (not Required written exam)
⸻
🎓 2. Joining After Graduation
(A) Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam
• Eligibility: Final year or graduated male and female candidates
• Age Limit: 19 – 25 Yrs
• Academies:
• Indian Military Academy (IMA)
• Officers Training Academy (OTA)
• Selection: Written exam through UPSC + Medical + SSB
(B) University Entry Scheme (UES) – Engineering Students
• For pre-final year engineering students
• Selection via campus interview by Army officials followed by SSB
(C) NCC Special Entry (Men & Women)
• Must NCC “C” certificate with minimum “B” grade
• No written exam, direct SSB interview
⸻
👨⚕ 3. Army Medical Corps (AMC) Entry
• For MBBS/BDS graduates
• Selection via interview, based on academic merit and performance
• Age limit usually 30 years
⸻
👷♂ 4. Joining as a Soldier (Jawan Level)
(A) General Duty (GD) Soldier
• Qualification: Class 10th pass with minimum 45%
• Age: 17.5 to 21 years
• Recruitment: Through Army Recruitment Rallies
(B) Tradesman / Clerk / Technical
• Requirements vary by trade (8th–12th standard)
• Physical and medical standards are strictly evaluated
⸻
🧠 5. Selection Process: What to Expect
1. Written Exams (NDA/CDS/ACC)
2. SSB Interview – a 5-day assessment of personality, IQ, leadership, and physical ability
3. Medical Examination
4. Merit List & Final Selection
⸻
🏋 6. Physical Fitness Requirements
• Minimum height: 157.5 cm (relaxation for hill area candidates)
• Chest: Minimum 77 cm (with expansion)
• Good eyesight (6/6 or corrected), normal hearing, no deformities
• Running, push-ups, chin-ups, balance, etc., are tested during recruitment rallies
⸻
🧭 Why Join the Indian Army?
• Patriotism & Honor: Serve the nation with pride
• Job Security: Stable government service
• Perks & Benefits: Subsidized housing, healthcare, pensions, and adventure
• Career Growth: Fast-track promotions, specialized training, foreign postings
• Respect in Society: Soldiers and officers enjoy high respect and status
⸻
✍ Final Thoughts
Joining the Indian Army is a noble calling. Whether you’re a student dreaming of NDA or a graduate looking at CDS, every path demands discipline, determination, and dedication. Start preparing early, stay focused, and never give up. The Indian Army doesn’t just offer a job—it offers a life of purpose and pride.
⸻
📌 Quick Tips:
• Regularly check joinindianarmy.nic.in for updates
• Prepare for physical fitness early
• Keep documents and certificates ready
• Work on spoken English and general awareness for SSB