Career as an Army Officer

An army officer is expected to serve the nation selflessly. It is a responsible and challenging job as you have to fight against enemies and terrorists and also serve the nation at times of natural calamities like earthquake, tsunami and floods.

How to reach my goal

Step 1: Enroll in 10+2 in any discipline, preferably science stream as some positions require higher knowledge of Physics and Mathematics. 

Step 2: Prepare for National Defence Academy Exam (NDA) if you wish to join the army straight after Class 12.

Step 3: If you want earn a graduation degree and then join the army, you have to appear for Combined Defence Services’ exam.

Step 4: The army gives you an option to join short-service commission or permanent commission. If you want to join the army on permanent commission then you should apply for National Defense Academy or Indian Military Academy. OTA or Officers’ Training Academy is for aspirants who want to join the short service commission.

Do you have it in you

• Passion to serve the country selflessly
• Leadership qualities
• Technical acumen if you are planning to be an airforce pilot
• Ability to take split-second decisions
• Ability to withstand physical and mental pressure
• A fighting spirit and love to accept challenges

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Highly respected and disciplined career
• Perks are excellent not only in terms of pay but other benefits like subsidized accommodation, medical benefits and education for children
• Job is adventurous and there is hardly any scope for monotony

Cons

• You have to stay away from your family for long periods
• Though a secured job but a high risk one especially when you are out there fighting battles for your country or facing the terrorists
• You have to keep on traveling from one place to another

Perks

A lieutenant gets Rs 25,000 per month while a middle-level lieutenant colonel / colonel gets around Rs 70,000 per month. The army officer is also entitled to perks like subsidized accommodation, free medical treatment, Army Group Insurance, subsidized food at the canteen stores and departmental facilities.

Visit our Career Center section for details on Armed Forces

FAQs

Can I join the army after Class 12 or is graduation compulsory?
NDA or National Defense Academy entrance exam is for students who have passed Class 12. If you wanto join the army after graduation you can do so after appearing for Combined Defence Services’ exam.

Which stream should I opt in Class 11 so that I can join the army?
If you choose science in Class 11 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, you will have a wider option. Technical positions especially those joining the at the air-force require a science background.

I want to be a doctor and serve the nation by joining the army. How do I go about?
After you finish your MBBS, you can apply for Short Service Commission in the Army Medical Corps. AFMS invites application from civil doctors who have passed their final MBBS examination in first or second attempt and completed internship for grant of Short Service Commission in the Army Medical Corps.