The Indian Army is one of the most respected forces in the world, offering young men and women a chance to serve the nation with pride and honor. Every year, thousands of aspirants dream of wearing the uniform, but only a few make it through the rigorous selection process. If you are planning your future in 2025, here is a complete guide on How to Join the Indian Army in 2025.

Eligibility to Join the Indian Army

How to Join the Indian Army in 2025 – Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the basic requirements:

Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen (some categories allow Nepalese/Bhutanese).
Age Limit: Varies by entry:
- NDA: 16.5 to 19.5 years
- CDS: 19 to 24 years
- Technical Entry Scheme (TES): 16.5 to 19.5 years
- Graduate-level entries: up to 27 years (varies)
Educational Qualification:
- 10+2 pass for NDA and TES
- Graduate degree for CDS and other entries
- Engineering degree for Technical and SSC Tech entries
Medical Fitness: Candidates must meet strict physical and medical standards.

How to Join the Indian Army

1. National Defence Academy (NDA)

Entry after Class 12 (Science stream preferred).
Written exam by UPSC + SSB interview.
Training at NDA Khadakwasla, followed by specialized training.

2. Combined Defence Services (CDS)

For graduates.
Exam conducted by UPSC twice a year.
Selection through written test + SSB interview + medical exam.

3. Technical Entry Scheme (TES)

For 10+2 (PCM) students with 60% marks.
No written exam, direct SSB interview based on merit.

4. University Entry Scheme (UES)

For final-year engineering students.
Campus recruitment followed by SSB.

5. Short Service Commission (SSC)

SSC Tech for engineering graduates.
SSC (Non-Tech) through CDS.
SSC Women entries also available.

6. Army Medical Corps

For medical graduates (MBBS, BDS, etc.).

7. Through NCC Special Entry

NCC ‘C’ Certificate holders can apply directly without a written exam.

Indian Army Selection Process

Written Exam (where applicable)
SSB Interview: 5-day interview assessing psychological, physical, and leadership skills.
Medical Test: Comprehensive check-up to ensure fitness.
Final Merit List: Based on performance in exams, interview, and medicals.

Indian Army Training Academies in India

NDA, Khadakwasla (Pune)
IMA, Dehradun (Indian Military Academy)
OTA, Chennai & Gaya (Officers Training Academy)
AMC, Lucknow (Army Medical Corps)

Career Growth in the Indian Army

Start as a Lieutenant.
Promotions to Captain, Major, Colonel, Brigadier, Major General, Lt. General, and General.
Opportunities to serve in India and abroad under UN Peacekeeping missions.