The Indian Army is a dream career for many youth in India, offering pride, respect and adventure. Whether you're completing 12th or have finished graduation, there are several ways to join the Indian Army in 2025. Here's a full guide to entry schemes, age limits and how to apply.

How to Join Indian Army

There are multiple routes to join the Indian Army, depending on your education level, age and gender. You can apply after 10+2, graduation or engineering. The official Indian Army website is www.joinindianarmy.nic.in where all notifications are updated.

How to Join Indian Army After 12th

If you have passed Class 12, you can join through NDA (National Defence Academy) or Agniveer scheme. NDA is for officer entry while Agniveer is for soldiers. Only unmarried males aged 16.5 to 19.5 years can apply for NDA.

How to Join Indian Army After Graduation

Graduates can apply through CDS (Combined Defence Services), Technical Graduate Course, and University Entry Scheme. Age limit varies from 19 to 27 depending on the entry type. Women can also apply through CDS and OTA (Officers Training Academy).

Eligibility to Join Indian Army

To join the Army, candidates must meet these basic conditions:

Must be an Indian citizen
Minimum age: 17.5 years
Maximum age varies from 21 to 27 years
Must be physically fit as per Army standards

Can I Join Army at 26?

Yes, you can join the Army at 26 through CDS (OTA) or Technical Graduate Entry. Age limit for these entries goes up to 27 years. Medical and physical fitness will also be tested.

CDS (OTA) allows entry up to age 26
Women can apply via OTA till 25 years
Engineering graduates can use TGC up to 27 years

Indian Army Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate is low due to high competition. NDA has less than 1% selection rate.

Written exam + SSB interview
Medical tests are strict

Is it Easy to Join the Army?

Joining the Army is not easy, but it's achievable with dedication. You need to pass exams, interviews and physical tests.

Focus on academics and fitness
Regular preparation is required

How to Join Indian Air Force

You can join Indian Air Force via NDA, AFCAT or CDS. Engineering students can also apply for the Technical branch.

NDA for 12th pass (only males)
AFCAT for graduates (men and women)

Agniveer Army Scheme

Agniveer is a 4-year service scheme for youth between 17.5 and 21 years. Selection is through written and physical tests.

Salary approx. Rs. 30,000/month
Training and uniform provided

Steps to Apply Online

Visit www.joinindianarmy.nic.in and register. Fill form, upload documents and appear for selection rounds.

Check eligibility first
Prepare required documents

Tips for Preparation

Focus on GK, English, Maths and Physical Fitness. Daily running, pushups and healthy food are crucial.

Practice mock tests
Join local coaching if needed

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