There are many ways to join the Indian Army — as an officer through UPSC and direct entries, or as a soldier through the Agniveer scheme. This guide maps every major route so you can pick the one that fits your qualification.
Officer Entry Routes
| NDA | After 12th — via UPSC NDA exam + SSB |
| CDS (IMA/OTA) | After graduation — via UPSC CDS + SSB |
| TES | After 12th (PCM) — Technical Entry Scheme |
| TGC / SSC Tech | Engineering graduates — Technical Graduate Course |
| NCC Special Entry | For eligible NCC ‘C’ certificate holders |
Soldier (Agniveer) Entry
Through the Agnipath scheme, candidates join as Agniveers in categories such as General Duty, Technical, Clerk/Store Keeper and Tradesman, based on 10th/12th qualification, an online test, a physical test and a medical.
Selection: The SSB Interview
Officer candidates must clear the Services Selection Board (SSB) — a rigorous 5-day process of psychological tests, group tasks and a personal interview — followed by a medical.
Training
Selected officers train at academies like the IMA or OTA; Agniveers undergo military training at regimental centres before deployment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become an Army officer after 12th?
Yes — through the NDA exam and, for technical streams, TES.
What is the SSB?
The Services Selection Board interview that assesses officer-like qualities.
IndianJobzz is an independent job-information portal and is not a government website. Details are compiled from official sources — always verify the latest eligibility, dates and vacancies on the official website before applying. We never charge candidates any fee.