Indian Army 10+2 TES 55 Recruitment 2025

Overview

The Indian Army has announced recruitment for the prestigious 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES) 55 for the July 2026 batch, offering 90 positions for young aspirants who dream of serving the nation while pursuing a career in engineering. This is an exceptional opportunity for students who have completed their 12th standard with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics to join the Indian Army and receive world-class technical education.

What is TES (Technical Entry Scheme)?

The Technical Entry Scheme is a unique entry pathway into the Indian Army that allows candidates to join the force immediately after completing their 12th standard. Under this scheme, selected candidates undergo training at the prestigious Army Cadet College and are granted a Bachelor’s degree in Technology (B.Tech) during their service.

Key Highlights of TES Entry

Educational Opportunity: Candidates receive a four-year engineering degree from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) while serving in the Indian Army.

Direct Commission: After completing the training and engineering degree, cadets are commissioned as Lieutenant in the Indian Army Technical Corps.

Zero Education Cost: Complete engineering education is provided free of cost by the Indian Army, including accommodation, food, and stipend.

Career Advancement: Excellent opportunities for career growth, specialized training, and higher studies within the armed forces.

Quick Information Snapshot

Parameter	Details
Recruiting Organization	Indian Army
Entry Scheme	10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES)
Batch Number	TES 55
Course Commencement	July 2026
Total Vacancies	90 Posts
Application Mode	Online Only
Application Start Date	October 14, 2025
Application Last Date	November 13, 2025
Fee Payment Last Date	November 13, 2025
Application Fee	No Fee Required
Official Website	joinindianarmy.nic.in

Important Dates Calendar

Event	Date
Online Application Begins	October 14, 2025
Online Application Closes	November 13, 2025
Last Date for Fee Payment	November 13, 2025
SSB Interview	To Be Notified Soon
Medical Examination	After SSB Clearance
Final Merit List	To Be Announced
Training Commencement	July 2026

Note: Candidates are advised to regularly check the official Indian Army recruitment website for any updates or changes in the schedule.

Vacancy Details

Total Posts: 90

Post Name	Number of Vacancies	Stream
10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES 55)	90	Engineering/Technical

Branch Allocation: After commissioning, officers are allocated to various technical corps including:

Corps of Engineers
Corps of Signals
Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME)
Army Ordnance Corps (AOC)
Army Aviation Corps

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualifications

Mandatory Requirements:

Academic Standard: Candidates must have passed 10+2 examination or equivalent from a recognized Board/University.

Subject Requirements: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are compulsory subjects in 12th standard.

Minimum Percentage:

Candidates must have secured minimum 70% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) in 10+2 or equivalent examination.
For reserved category candidates (SC/ST), the minimum aggregate is 65% in PCM.

Appearing Candidates: Students who are appearing in 10+2 final examination can also apply provisionally, subject to completion and meeting the percentage criteria by the specified date.

Recognized Boards: Certificates from CBSE, State Boards, ICSE, NIOS, or any other recognized board are acceptable.

Age Limit (As on July 1, 2026)

Minimum Age: 16.5 years (16 years and 6 months)

Maximum Age: 19.5 years (19 years and 6 months)

Important: Age calculation is done as on July 1, 2026. Candidates born between January 2, 2007, and January 1, 2010, are eligible to apply.

Date of Birth Proof: Only 10th class certificate or birth certificate issued by Municipal Authority will be accepted as proof of date of birth.

Physical Standards

Height Requirements:

Minimum height: 157 cm (157 centimeters)
For candidates from hilly areas, Scheduled Tribes, and certain states, relaxation in height is provided as per existing Army regulations

Weight: Proportionate to height and age as per medical standards

Chest Measurement (For Male Candidates):

Minimum chest: 77 cm (unexpanded)
Minimum expansion: 5 cm

Vision Standards:

Distance vision: 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in other eye
Color vision: CP-III (Color Perception-III) standard
Candidates must not have night blindness

Physical Fitness: Candidates should be in good physical and mental health, free from any physical deformity likely to interfere with military service.

Nationality and Marital Status

Nationality: Candidate must be a citizen of India.

Marital Status: Only unmarried male candidates are eligible to apply.

Application Fee Structure

Good News for Applicants: There is NO application fee for Indian Army 10+2 TES 55 recruitment. All candidates can apply free of cost.

This zero-fee policy ensures that financial constraints do not prevent deserving candidates from applying for this prestigious opportunity.

Selection Process

The selection process for TES 55 entry is comprehensive and rigorous, consisting of multiple stages:

Stage 1: Screening and Shortlisting

After receiving applications, the Indian Army scrutinizes all submissions based on eligibility criteria. Candidates meeting the requirements are shortlisted for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.

Shortlisting Criteria:

Educational qualifications (percentage in PCM)
Age eligibility
Physical standards
Document verification

Stage 2: Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview

Shortlisted candidates are called for SSB interview at various selection centers across India. The SSB interview is a comprehensive 5-day assessment process.

SSB Process Components:

Day 1 – Screening Test:

Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) test
Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT)
Group Discussion

Candidates who clear the screening test proceed to the remaining four days of testing. Those who do not qualify are sent back on Day 1 itself.

Day 2 to Day 4 – Psychological Tests:

Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)
Word Association Test (WAT)
Situation Reaction Test (SRT)
Self Description Test (SD)

Day 2 to Day 4 – Group Testing:

Group Discussion (GD)
Group Planning Exercise (GPE)
Progressive Group Task (PGT)
Half Group Task (HGT)
Lecturette
Individual Obstacles
Command Task
Final Group Task (FGT)

Day 3 or Day 4 – Personal Interview: A detailed personal interview conducted by an experienced officer to assess the candidate’s personality, knowledge, motivation, and suitability for military service.

Day 5 – Conference: Final assessment where all three assessors (Interviewing Officer, Group Testing Officer, and Psychologist) collectively evaluate the candidate.

Stage 3: Medical Examination

Candidates who are recommended by the SSB undergo a comprehensive medical examination at designated Military Hospitals.

Medical Tests Include:

General physical examination
Eye examination including color vision and refraction
ENT examination
Dental examination
X-rays (chest and other required)
Blood tests and urine analysis
Fitness certification

Candidates must be medically fit as per the standards laid down for TES entry.

Stage 4: Merit List and Final Selection

A final merit list is prepared based on:

Performance in SSB interview
Marks obtained in 10+2 examination
Medical fitness

Selected candidates receive joining instructions for training commencement in July 2026.

Training and Course Details

Army Cadet College (ACC), Indian Military Academy, Dehradun

Selected candidates join the prestigious Army Cadet College located within the Indian Military Academy campus in Dehradun.

Training Duration: Four years (8 semesters)

Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi

Engineering Disciplines Available:

Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Electronics and Communication Engineering
Computer Science and Engineering

Training Components:

Academic Training: Complete B.Tech curriculum with emphasis on engineering fundamentals, mathematics, sciences, and specialized subjects.

Military Training: Weapon training, drill, map reading, field craft, tactical exercises, leadership development, and physical fitness.

Personality Development: Communication skills, ethics, behavioral training, and officer-like qualities development.

Stipend During Training

Cadets receive a monthly stipend during their training period:

The stipend amount is as per Indian Army regulations
All accommodation, food, uniforms, and study materials are provided free of cost
Medical facilities are completely free

Commissioning

After successfully completing the four-year training and engineering degree:

Cadets are commissioned as Lieutenant in the Indian Army
Allocated to technical corps based on merit, aptitude, and Army requirements
Begin their career as technical officers in the Indian Army

How to Apply Online: Step-by-Step Guide

Before You Begin

Ensure You Have:

Active email ID
Valid mobile number
Scanned photograph (recent passport size)
Scanned signature
All educational certificates
Aadhaar Card
Category certificate (if applicable)
Stable internet connection

Application Process

Step 1: Visit Official Website

Go to joinindianarmy.nic.in
Click on “Officer Entry” section
Select “10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES 55)”

Step 2: Registration

Click on “Apply/Login” button
For new users, click “Registration”
Enter basic details: Name, Date of Birth, Email, Mobile Number
Create a strong password
Complete the captcha verification
Submit to receive Registration Number

Step 3: Login to Portal

Use Registration Number and Password to login
You will receive OTP on registered mobile and email
Enter OTP to proceed

Step 4: Fill Application Form

Personal Details Section:

Full name (as per 10th certificate)
Father’s name and mother’s name
Date of birth
Gender
Nationality
Religion and caste
Marital status

Communication Details:

Permanent address with PIN code
Correspondence address
Email ID and mobile number
Alternate contact details

Educational Qualifications:

10th examination details (Board, Year, Roll Number, Percentage)
12th examination details (Board, Year, Roll Number)
Marks in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics individually
Aggregate percentage in PCM
Upload mark sheets

Physical Details:

Height (in centimeters)
Weight (in kilograms)
Chest measurement (unexpanded and expanded)

Additional Information:

SSB attempt details (if any previous attempts)
NCC certificate details (if applicable)
Sports achievements (if any)

Step 5: Upload Documents

Photograph Specifications:

Recent passport-size color photograph
White or light-colored background
Face should be clearly visible
File format: JPG/JPEG
File size: 10 KB to 50 KB
Dimensions: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm

Signature Specifications:

Sign on white paper with black or blue pen
Scan the signature
File format: JPG/JPEG
File size: 10 KB to 30 KB
Clear and legible signature

Documents to Upload:

10th certificate/mark sheet
12th certificate/mark sheet (provisional if appearing)
Aadhaar card
Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC if applicable)
Domicile certificate (if claiming regional relaxation)
NCC certificate (if applicable)

Step 6: Preview and Verify

Review all entered information carefully
Check for any errors or typos
Verify uploaded documents are clear and readable
Make corrections if necessary

Step 7: Final Submission

Click on “Final Submit” button
Once submitted, no changes can be made
System will generate an Application Number

Step 8: Download and Print

Download the application form
Take multiple printouts for future reference
Keep the application number safe
This form will be required during SSB interview

Required Documents Checklist

During Application

Document	Purpose	Specifications
Matriculation Certificate	Age and educational proof	Clear scanned copy, PDF/JPG
12th Mark Sheet	Eligibility verification	All semester/year mark sheets
Aadhaar Card	Identity proof	Valid and clear copy
Category Certificate	Reservation benefits	If applicable (SC/ST/OBC)
Photograph	Identification	Recent passport size, white background
Signature	Authentication	Black/blue pen on white paper
Domicile Certificate	Regional benefits	If claiming height/weight relaxation

For SSB Interview

Candidates must carry original documents along with photocopies:

10th class certificate and mark sheet
12th class certificate and mark sheet (all semesters)
Character certificate from school/college principal
Passport-size photographs (minimum 10 copies)
Aadhaar card and PAN card
Domicile certificate
Category certificate (if applicable)
NCC certificate (if applicable)
Sports achievement certificates (if any)
Recommendation letter from school/college (if any)
Any other relevant documents

Salary and Benefits

During Training Period (4 Years)

Monthly Stipend: As per Indian Army regulations for cadets

Free Benefits:

Complete accommodation in the hostel
Nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea)
All uniforms and dress items
Study materials and textbooks
Medical facilities
Sports and recreational facilities
No tuition fees for B.Tech degree

After Commissioning as Lieutenant

Pay Scale: Level 10 as per 7th Central Pay Commission

Basic Pay: Starting from Rs. 56,100 per month

Total Salary Package (Including Allowances): Approximately Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 90,000 per month initially

Allowances:

Dearness Allowance (DA) – As per central government rates
Military Service Pay (MSP) – Rs. 15,500 per month
Transport Allowance – As applicable
House Rent Allowance / Government Accommodation
Kit Maintenance Allowance
Technical Pay (for technical branches)

Other Benefits:

Medical facilities for self and dependents
Canteen facilities (CSD) with subsidized rates
Leave Travel Concession (LTC)
Annual leave: 60 days
Pension and gratuity benefits
Group insurance coverage
Children education allowance
Housing loan at subsidized rates

Career Progression

Rank	Years of Service	Pay Level
Lieutenant	On Commissioning	Level 10
Captain	After 2 years	Level 10B
Major	After 6 years	Level 11
Lieutenant Colonel	After 13 years	Level 12A
Colonel	After 21 years	Level 13
Brigadier	Selection based	Level 13A

Life as a Technical Officer in Indian Army

Career Opportunities

Technical Corps Allocation: Based on merit and Army requirements, officers are posted to:

Corps of Engineers (Construction, infrastructure)
Corps of Signals (Communication systems)
EME (Maintenance of equipment and vehicles)
Army Ordnance Corps (Ammunition and logistics)
Army Aviation (Aircraft maintenance)

Professional Development

Advanced Training: Officers undergo various career courses:

Young Officers Course
Technical Staff Course
Higher Command Course
Management courses from premier institutions

Higher Education: Opportunities for:

M.Tech from IITs and other premier institutes
Management courses (MBA) from IIMs
Foreign training programs
Research and development assignments

Postings

Varied Experience:

Field postings in operational areas
Headquarters staff appointments
Training establishments as instructors
Foreign assignments and UN peacekeeping missions
Deputation to defense PSUs and research organizations

Work-Life Balance

Lifestyle Benefits:

Quality government accommodation in cantonments
Access to Army clubs, sports facilities, swimming pools
Schools for children (Army Public Schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas)
Active social life within military community
Adventure activities and sports opportunities

Preparation Strategy for SSB Interview

Months Before SSB

Physical Fitness:

Start daily exercise routine immediately
Running: Build endurance for 1.6 km in under 7 minutes
Push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups: Build upper body strength
Practice jumping, landing, balancing
Swimming is advantageous

General Knowledge:

Read newspapers daily (focus on national and international affairs)
Follow current events, especially defense-related news
Study Indian Armed Forces structure, ranks, weapons
Know about borders, neighboring countries, strategic locations
Understand basic economics, polity, geography

Communication Skills:

Practice speaking in English
Improve vocabulary and grammar
Learn to express thoughts clearly and confidently
Practice group discussions with friends

Self-Awareness:

Introspection about your strengths and weaknesses
Understand why you want to join the Army
Know your hobbies and interests in depth
Prepare for questions about your family, education, and aspirations

During SSB Week

Day 1 Strategy:

Stay calm during OIR test, manage time well
In PPDT, observe the picture carefully, note all details
Tell a practical story with positive character
Listen to others during group discussion
Participate but don’t dominate or stay silent

Psychological Tests Tips:

Write what comes naturally to your mind
Show positive, action-oriented responses
Display leadership, helping nature, responsibility
Be consistent in your approach across all tests
Don’t overthink or try to manipulate responses

Group Tasks Tips:

Be a team player, cooperate with group members
Show initiative but respect others’ ideas
Focus on task completion, not just individual performance
Demonstrate logical thinking in group planning
Stay energetic and enthusiastic throughout

Personal Interview Tips:

Be honest and genuine in your answers
Speak confidently, maintain eye contact
Don’t bluff or give wrong information
If you don’t know an answer, admit it politely
Show passion for joining the Army
Be prepared for questions on your PIQ form

General Conduct:

Dress neatly and maintain personal hygiene
Be polite and respectful to everyone
Show good manners during meals and interactions
Stay confident but not overconfident
Be yourself, don’t try to act

Common Mistakes to Avoid

During Application:

Don’t submit application without thorough verification
Don’t provide incorrect percentage or educational details
Don’t upload blurred or inappropriate photographs
Don’t miss the application deadline
Don’t create multiple accounts with different details

Before SSB:

Don’t arrive unprepared physically or mentally
Don’t ignore current affairs and general knowledge
Don’t neglect documentation requirements
Don’t reach the center late or on wrong dates

During SSB:

Don’t try to fake your personality or responses
Don’t be overconfident or arrogant
Don’t criticize other candidates or assessors
Don’t remain completely silent or dominate discussions
Don’t give up during physical tasks
Don’t show negative attitude or pessimism

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can female candidates apply for TES entry? No, currently the 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme is open only for male candidates.

Q2: Is there any application fee? No, there is no application fee. The entire application process is free of cost.

Q3: Can I apply if I am appearing in 12th examination? Yes, students appearing in 12th can apply provisionally, but must meet the eligibility criteria by the specified date.

Q4: What happens if I don’t clear the screening test on Day 1 of SSB? If you don’t clear the screening test, you will be sent back on Day 1 itself. You can apply again in future recruitment cycles.

Q5: Can I choose my engineering branch? Branch allocation is based on merit, aptitude tests, and Army requirements. However, your preference is considered.

Q6: Is the B.Tech degree recognized? Yes, the B.Tech degree from JNU is fully recognized and equivalent to degrees from other universities.

Q7: What is the service bond after commissioning? Officers are required to serve a minimum period in the Indian Army after commissioning, typically 10 years of total service (4 years training + 6 years mandatory service).

Q8: Can I leave the Army after completing the bond period? Yes, you can apply for premature retirement after completing the mandatory service period, subject to Army regulations.

Q9: What if I fail in any semester during B.Tech? You will be given opportunities to clear the backlog. However, consistent poor academic performance may lead to withdrawal from training.

Q10: Are NCC candidates given any preference? NCC ‘C’ certificate holders get bonus marks during SSB interview, which is an advantage.

Q11: What is the difference between TES and NDA entry? NDA entry is for 10+2 pass students for all three services (Army, Navy, Air Force), while TES is specifically for technical entry into the Army after 12th with PCM.

Q12: Can I apply for both TES and NDA? Yes, you can apply for both if you meet the respective eligibility criteria. However, if selected in both, you’ll have to choose one.

Important Tips for Success

Academic Preparation

Maintain strong percentage in 12th, especially in PCM
Focus on conceptual understanding, not just rote learning
Physics and Mathematics are crucial for engineering
Stay updated with CBSE/State Board syllabus changes

Physical Preparation

Start fitness routine at least 6 months before SSB
Practice outdoor activities regularly
Build stamina and strength progressively
Maintain healthy diet and lifestyle
Get adequate sleep and rest

Mental Preparation

Develop positive attitude and confident personality
Read about Indian Army history, operations, and achievements
Watch documentaries about Armed Forces
Interact with defense personnel if possible
Join defense preparation groups or coaching (optional)

Document Management

Keep all certificates in a dedicated file
Make multiple photocopies of important documents
Carry original certificates during SSB
Update documents if any changes occur

Why Choose TES Entry?

Unique Advantages

Early Career Start: Join the Army at a young age and get a head start in your career while your peers are still pursuing regular engineering.

Free Quality Education: Receive a B.Tech degree from JNU without any financial burden on your family. Engineering education typically costs lakhs in private colleges.

Guaranteed Job: Unlike regular engineering graduates who face uncertain job prospects, you have a permanent, prestigious career assured after graduation.

Technical + Military Skills: Dual expertise in engineering and military operations makes you versatile and highly skilled.

Nation Building: Contribute directly to national security while developing technical infrastructure for the Armed Forces.

Character Development: Military training molds your personality, instills discipline, and develops leadership qualities that benefit you throughout life.

Financial Security: Excellent salary, allowances, and benefits from day one of commissioning. Your family is financially secure throughout your service.

Respect and Pride: Wearing the Army uniform brings immense respect in society and pride in serving the nation.

Life After Army Career

Post-Retirement Opportunities

Corporate Sector: Ex-Army technical officers are highly valued in private companies for their discipline, leadership, and technical skills.

Defense PSUs: Organizations like BEL, HAL, DRDO, Ordnance Factories prefer ex-service personnel.

Entrepreneurship: Many officers start successful businesses leveraging their management and technical skills.

Consultancy: Technical consultancy in engineering, project management, security domains.

Teaching: Join engineering colleges or training institutes as faculty members.

Second Career in Government: Opportunities in state and central government departments with reservation for ex-servicemen.

Pension Benefits

Lifelong pension after completing minimum service
Family pension for dependents
Medical facilities continue post-retirement
Canteen facilities (CSD) remain accessible
ECHS (Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme) coverage

Important Links and Resources

Official Website

Join Indian Army Portal: joinindianarmy.nic.in

Sections to Explore:

Officer Entry – TES Section
Information Center – FAQs
Eligibility Criteria – Detailed Requirements
SSB Centers – Location and Contact Details
Downloads – Forms and Documents

Helpline and Support

Indian Army Recruitment Helpdesk:

Check official website for helpline numbers
Email support available for technical issues
Regional recruitment offices for queries

Final Words of Motivation

Joining the Indian Army through the Technical Entry Scheme is not just about getting a job or an engineering degree. It’s about choosing a life of honor, discipline, adventure, and service to the nation. The TES entry offers you a unique opportunity to combine technical expertise with military leadership, making you part of an elite group of officers who safeguard India’s sovereignty.

The journey from a 12th-pass student to a commissioned officer in the Indian Army is challenging but immensely rewarding. Every moment of hardship during training, every drop of sweat during physical exercises, and every hour spent studying prepares you for a lifetime of excellence and pride.

Remember:

Age is on your side – apply while you’re young and eligible
No financial burden – the entire process is free
Quality education – get a B.Tech from JNU
Job security – permanent career with excellent benefits
Respect and honor – wear the uniform with pride
Make your family proud – serve the nation

Action Steps:

Check your eligibility immediately
Prepare your documents
Apply online between October 14 and November 13, 2025
Start physical and mental preparation for SSB
Stay focused and committed to your goal

The Indian Army needs technically qualified, physically fit, and mentally strong young men who can lead from the front. If you have the passion, determination, and courage, this is your calling.

Apply today and begin your journey towards a prestigious career in the Indian Army!

Disclaimer: This information is compiled from official sources for guidance purposes. Candidates must verify all details, dates, and requirements from the official Indian Army recruitment website (joinindianarmy.nic.in) before applying. The publisher is not responsible for any inadvertent errors or changes made by the recruiting authority. For authoritative and updated information, always refer to the official notification on joinindianarmy.nic.in.

JAI HIND!