How to Become an Officer in the Indian Army: Exams and Requirements

Balasahana Suresh
Becoming an officer in the indian army is a prestigious career path, but it requires meeting certain educational, physical, and age criteria, as well as passing specific exams. There are multiple routes depending on your educational background and age.

1. National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam

Who Can Apply?

  • Students who have completed 10+2 (Class 12) from a recognized board.
  • Age: 16.5 – 19.5 years.
  • Both male candidates can apply (currently nda is male-only, though there are discussions about expanding).
Exam Details

  • Conducted by the Union Public service Commission (UPSC) twice a year.
  • Written Exam:
    • Mathematics (300 marks)
    • General Ability Test (600 marks; includes English, General Knowledge, Science, History, Geography, Current Affairs)
  • SSB Interview: 5-day process testing intelligence, personality, and leadership.
Training

  • If selected, candidates join National Defence Academy, Pune, for 3 years, followed by training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun.
2. Combined Defence services (CDS) Exam

Who Can Apply?

  • Graduates from any recognized university.
  • Age: 19 – 24 years for IMA (varies for other academies).
  • Both men and women can apply.
Exam Details

  • Conducted by UPSC twice a year.
  • Written Exam:
    • English (100 marks)
    • General Knowledge (100 marks)
    • Elementary Mathematics (100 marks)
  • SSB Interview: 5-day assessment similar to NDA.
Training

  • Selected candidates join Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, or other training academies like Officers Training Academy (OTA) for Short service Commission.
3. Technical Entry Scheme (TES)

Who Can Apply?

  • 10+2 (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) students or engineering graduates.
  • Age: 16.5 – 19.5 years for 10+2, 20 – 27 for engineering graduates.
  • Both male and female candidates can apply (limited number of female entries).
Exam & Selection

  • Written tests or merit-based shortlisting from 10+2 marks or engineering degree marks.
  • SSB interview for final selection.
Training

  • Candidates undergo technical training at IMA or OTA after selection.
4. Short service Commission (SSC) Entry

Who Can Apply?

  • Graduates in any discipline.
  • Age: 20 – 27 years.
  • Both male and female candidates.
Selection

  • Direct SSB interview for graduates. Some entries may require CDS written exam first.
  • SSC (Non-Technical) or SSC (Technical) for engineering graduates.
Training

  • Training at Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, for a period of 49 weeks.
Other Specialized Entries

  • University Entry Scheme (UES): For engineering students in the final year.
  • NCC Special Entry: For candidates with C certificate in NCC Air/Wing or army Wing.
Key Requirements

Criteria

Requirement

Nationality

Indian

Age

Varies with entry scheme

Education

10+2 for NDA/TES, Graduation for CDS/SSC

Physical

Height: min 157.5 cm (varies), medically fit

Marital Status

Usually unmarried at entry

Fitness

Clear physical fitness tests including running, push-ups, sit-ups, and medical standards

SSB interview Highlights

The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is crucial:

  • Duration: 5 days
  • Tests: Psychological tests, group tasks, personal interview, outdoor leadership exercises
  • Focus: Leadership, teamwork, mental aptitude, and personality assessment
Bottom Line

To become an officer in the indian Army:

  • 10+2 students: nda or TES
  • Graduates: CDS, SSC, or technical entry
  • Key Steps: Pass written exam (if required) → Pass SSB interview → Complete training at IMA/OTA/NDA
Even with high academics, physical fitness and leadership qualities are equally important.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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