Defence Jobs 2026
Indian Defence Exams 2026
Join the Army, Navy, or Air Force. Your complete guide to NDA, CDS, AFCAT, and the Agniveer Recruitment Scheme.
1. Ways to Join the Forces
You can join the Indian Armed Forces either as a Commissioned Officer (Leader) or as a Jawan/Sailor/Airman (Soldier). The entry depends on your age and qualification.
| Exam Name | Entry Level | Qualification | Training Academy |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC NDA | Officer | 12th Pass (PCM for Air Force/Navy) | NDA, Pune (3 Yrs) |
| UPSC CDS | Officer | Graduate (Any Stream) | IMA, OTA, INA, AFA |
| AFCAT | Officer (Air Force) | Graduate (60% min) | Air Force Academy, Dundigal |
| Agniveer | Soldier (4 Years) | 8th / 10th / 12th Pass | Regimental Centres |
2. Salary & Ranks (The Badge of Honour)
Defence salaries are supplemented by Military Service Pay (MSP), Canteen (CSD) facilities, and world-class medical care.
3. The SSB Interview (5 Days Procedure)
Written exams (NDA/CDS) are just the entry pass. The real test is the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview, considered one of the toughest personality tests in the world.
- Day 1 (Screening): OIR Test & PPDT (Picture Perception). ~60% candidates are rejected here.
- Day 2 (Psychology): TAT, WAT, SRT, and Self Description.
- Day 3 & 4 (GTO): Group Tasks, Obstacle Race, Command Task.
- Day 5 (Conference): Final result declaration.
4. Physical Standards
To wear the uniform, you must be physically fit. Common rejections happen due to eyesight (Colour Blindness) and Flat Foot.
- Minimum Height: 157 cm (Men), 152 cm (Women). Relaxation for Hills/Tribals.
- Eyesight: 6/6 or 6/9 uncorrected for Pilots. Glasses allowed for Army (upto -2.5D).
- Running: 1.6 km run is standard for almost all soldier entries (Time: 5 min 30 sec to 6 min).
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