Defence Education in India
Explore India's premier defence training institutions, military academies, Sainik Schools, and pathways to a career in the Indian Armed Forces.
Defence Career Pathway
From school to senior command — the journey of a defence officer
Entry Level
Sainik School / RMS / RIMC
Class 6-12
Graduation
NDA (Only ONE in India)
3 years
Specialisation
IMA / INA / AFA / OTA
1 - 1.5 years
Advanced
NDC / DSSC / Army War College
Mid-senior career
Showing 45 of 45 institutions
Defence Academies
5 institutions
Defence Universities
4 institutions
Technical & Staff Colleges
5 institutions
Sainik Schools & Pre-NDA
31 institutions
Defence Entrance Examinations
Key entrance exams for joining the Indian Armed Forces
NDA & NA Examination
Conducted by: UPSC
Eligibility
12th pass/appearing, age 16.5-19.5 years, unmarried males
Pattern
Written (Mathematics + General Ability Test) + SSB Interview (5 days)
Frequency
Twice yearly (April & September)
Official Website
upsc.gov.inCombined Defence Services Examination
Conducted by: UPSC
Eligibility
Graduates, age 20-25 years
Pattern
Written (English + General Knowledge + Mathematics) + SSB Interview
Frequency
Twice yearly
Official Website
upsc.gov.inAir Force Common Admission Test
Conducted by: Indian Air Force
Eligibility
Graduates, age 20-24 years
Pattern
Written Test + AFSB Interview + Medical Examination
Frequency
Twice yearly
Official Website
afcat.cdac.inTechnical Entry Scheme
Conducted by: Indian Army
Eligibility
12th PCM (70%+), age 16.5-19.5 years
Pattern
JEE Main Score + SSB Interview
Frequency
Twice yearly
Official Website
joinindianarmy.nic.inMilitary Nursing Service
Conducted by: Indian Army
Eligibility
B.Sc Nursing, age 21-25 years
Pattern
Written Examination + Interview + Medical
Frequency
Annual
Official Website
joinindianarmy.nic.in