top of page
Search

How to Join the Indian Armed Forces After Class 12th – For Both Male and Female Aspirants

  • dheeresht
  • Jun 2
  • 2 min read

By Lt Col Dheeresh Tripathi (Retd), Psychologist, GTO, and Author

India’s armed forces are not just a career—they're a calling. For those who dream of donning the uniform right after Class 12th, the Indian Armed Forces offer a clear path—whether you’re a young man or woman. This guide will walk you through the various options and how to prepare.


For Male Aspirants

1. NDA (National Defence Academy) – Most Popular Entry

  • For: Army, Navy, Air Force

  • Eligibility:

    • Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years

    • Education: 12th pass with Physics & Maths (for Air Force & Navy), any stream for Army

    • Marital Status: Unmarried

  • Exam Conducted By: UPSC (Twice a year – April & September)

  • Selection Process:

    1. Written Exam

    2. SSB Interview (5 Days)

    3. Medical Examination

  • Training: NDA Khadakwasla (3 years) + Specialized Academies (1 year)

🔹 Tip: Start preparing for NDA in Class 11. Focus on Maths, English, and General Knowledge. Physical fitness is equally vital.

🛡️ For Female Aspirants

1. NDA Entry – Now Open for Girls (Since 2021)

  • Eligibility:

    • Same as above (16.5 to 19.5 years, unmarried, 12th pass)

    • Competitive exam & physical standards equally apply

  • Note: Seats are limited, and competition is tougher due to fewer vacancies. But the pathway is now open and evolving.

🔹 Trailblazer Alert: The first batch of women cadets joined NDA in 2022, marking a historic moment for gender equality in defence forces.

💂‍♂️ Other Entries for Both Genders After 12th

2. TES (Technical Entry Scheme) – For Boys

  • For: Indian Army (Engineering Officers)

  • Eligibility:

    • Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years

    • Marks: Minimum 60% in PCM + JEE Mains

  • Selection: Direct SSB Interview (No written exam)

  • Training: 5-year B.Tech at OTA Gaya + Military training


✈️ 3. Air Force – Agnipath/Agniveer Vayu (Male & Female)

  • For: Indian Air Force (Technical and Non-Technical roles)

  • Eligibility:

    • Age: 17.5 to 21 years

    • 12th pass with Physics & Maths (Technical), any stream for Non-Technical

  • Exam: Conducted by Indian Air Force

⚓ 4. Navy – Agnipath/Agniveer Navy (SSR/MR) – Male & Female

  • Eligibility:

    • Age: 17.5 to 21 years

    • 12th pass with PCM for SSR (Sailor), 10th for MR (Matric Recruit)

  • Exam: Computer-based test + PFT + Medical


Preparing for the Forces: Tips from a Trainer

As a GTO and psychologist with years of SSB mentoring, I offer these golden tips:

  • Start Early: Begin NDA prep by Class 11 with focus on NCERT books.

  • Stay Fit: Running, push-ups, and team sports build not just stamina but leadership.

  • Work on Communication: The SSB looks for clarity, confidence, and cooperation.

  • Stay Aware: Read newspapers, follow defence news, and stay updated.


Conclusion

Whether you’re a young man with dreams of commanding a battalion or a determined girl breaking boundaries in uniform, the Indian Armed Forces have a place for you. Your journey after Class 12th can begin with commitment, courage, and clarity.

If you need mentorship or career guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. The nation needs leaders—and you could be one of them.

Lt Col Dheeresh Tripathi (Retd) is a former GTO, SSB Psychologist, and Defence Trainer. He is the founding director of Cadeto India and author of 'Window for Life' and 'Symbols of God – Deciphering the Indus Script'.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page