Explore how to join Indian Army in 2025. Get full details on eligibility, recruitment process, exams, salary, and career path.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why Join Indian Army?
- Eligibility Criteria
- Entry Routes to Join Indian Army
- Recruitment Process
- Indian Army Exam Calendar 2025
- Salary and Benefits
- Career Growth in the Indian Army
- Documents Required
- How to Apply Online
- Final Tips for Aspirants
- FAQs
Introduction:
Joining the Indian Army is a dream for millions of youth who aspire to serve the nation with pride, discipline, and honor. If you’re one of them, 2025 might be your year. Whether you’re in school, college, or a graduate seeking a challenging career, this guide will help you understand everything about how to join Indian Army in 2025.
Why Join Indian Army ?
The Indian Army offers more than just a job.It offers a life of dignity, responsibility, and unmatched adventure. From mountain operations to peacekeeping missions, Indian Army officers and soldiers play vital roles. Here’s why thousands choose this path:
- Patriotic purpose
- Great salary and allowances
- Free medical and housing facilities
- Adventure, sports, and travel opportunities
- Early retirement with pension benefits
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility varies based on the type of entry. Here’s a quick overview:
Entry Type | Age Limit | Educational Qualification | Gender |
---|---|---|---|
NDA (After 12th) | 16.5 – 19.5 years | 12th Pass | Male Only |
CDS (After Graduation) | 19 – 25 years | Graduate | Male & Female |
Technical Entry | 20 – 27 years | B.Tech/Engineering | Male & Female |
Agniveer Entry | 17.5 – 21 years | 10th/12th Pass | Male & Female |
Note: Candidates must meet physical fitness and medical standards.

Entry Routes to Join Indian Army
- NDA (National Defence Academy): For young aspirants who have passed 12th with PCM. NDA exam is conducted by UPSC twice a year.
- CDS (Combined Defence Services): For graduates. Also conducted by UPSC.
- Technical Entry Scheme (TES): For engineering students.
- Agniveer Recruitment: New 4-year service scheme for 10th and 12th pass youth.
- Army Medical Corps, NCC Special Entry, and Territorial Army are additional options.
Recruitment Process
- Written Exam (NDA/CDS/AgniVeer)
- SSB Interview (for officer-level entries)
- Physical Fitness Test
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List & Training
Indian Army Exam Calendar 2025 (Tentative)
- NDA 1: April 2025
- NDA 2: September 2025
- CDS 1: February 2025
- CDS 2: November 2025
- Agniveer Rally Dates: Region-wise, updated on joinindianarmy.nic.in
Salary and Benefits
- Agniveer Salary: Starting from ₹30,000/month (in-hand)
- Lieutenant (Officer) Pay: ₹56,100/month + allowances
- Other Perks: Free healthcare, canteen, accommodation, pension (for permanent cadre), and leave travel concession
Career Growth
From soldier to officer, or Lieutenant to General, the Indian Army offers a clear career progression. Promotions are based on service duration, performance, and selection boards.join Indian Army
Documents Required
- Matriculation and higher education certificates
- Aadhar card
- Domicile certificate
- Passport-sized photographs
- Signature and ID proof

How to Apply Online?
- Visit joinindianarmy.nic.in
- Register with your mobile/email
- Select the entry type
- Fill in personal and academic details
- Upload documents
- Submit application before deadline
Final Tips for Aspirants
- Focus on physical fitness and mental preparation
- Follow current affairs and practice reasoning/math
- Maintain discipline and punctuality
- Join defense coaching if needed
Suggested Read:
Railway Jobs for Female in India – Best Posts (2025)
Government Jobs in India 2025: Salary & Eligibility
FAQs
Q1. What is the minimum qualification to join Indian Army?
10th pass for Agniveer; 12th or graduation for officer entries.
Q2. Can girls join Indian Army in 2025?
Yes, through CDS, Agniveer, and other entries.
Q3. Is there an entrance exam for Army recruitment?
Yes, like NDA, CDS, or Agniveer CEE.
Q4. What is the age limit to apply?
Between 16.5 to 27 years (depends on entry type).
Q5. How to apply online?
Go to joinindianarmy.nic.in and fill out the form.