CareersJoining the defence forces
There are two kinds of entry: as an officer, through examinations and the SSB interview, and in the ranks, mainly through the Agnipath scheme.
What the work is
Officers lead soldiers, sailors and air warriors, and later command units. Those in the ranks do the trade they are trained for: infantry, technical, clerical, medical support and many more.
The path, step by step
- Officer after 12th: the NDA and NA Examination of UPSC, then the SSB interview and medical tests. Army wing accepts any stream; Air Force and Navy need Physics and Mathematics.
- Officer after graduation: the CDS Examination of UPSC, AFCAT for the Air Force, and technical and other direct entries.
- Ranks: recruitment as an Agniveer under the Agnipath scheme, for four years, with a share retained afterwards.
- Medical fitness is tested for every entry, and standards are strict.
Examinations and bodies
| Examination or body | What it is for |
|---|---|
| NDA and NA Examination | Held by UPSC for unmarried men and women who have passed or are appearing in Class 12, within the age limits in the notice. |
| CDS Examination | Held by UPSC for graduates. |
| AFCAT | The Air Force's own test for graduates. |
| Agniveer recruitment | A written test, physical tests and medical examination, held separately by each force. |
How long it takes
NDA training is three years at the academy and one at the service academy. Agniveer service is four years.
Honest notes
- The SSB interview tests the whole person over several days, and most candidates are not recommended. It can be tried again.
- Check the eyesight, height and other medical standards before you spend years preparing.
- Agniveer is a four year engagement. Read the terms about what happens after it, and plan your further study.
- Paramilitary forces and state police recruit separately, through SSC and state boards.
Where to check
- upsc.gov.in for NDA and CDS
- joinindianarmy.nic.in, joinindiannavy.gov.in and the Air Force career site
Check the official notice. This page describes how the path works in general, as understood in November 2026. Age limits, eligibility, exam patterns, dates and fees change. Before you apply or pay for anything, read the current notice on the official website named on this page. This is general information, not personal career advice.
Questions people ask
How long does it take?
NDA training is three years at the academy and one at the service academy. Agniveer service is four years.
Which examination do I need?
NDA and NA Examination: Held by UPSC for unmarried men and women who have passed or are appearing in Class 12, within the age limits in the notice. CDS Examination: Held by UPSC for graduates. AFCAT: The Air Force's own test for graduates.