Which exams do you need to take to become an officer in the army, and what is the training like? Learn everything here.

Every year, thousands of young people prepare for various exams to become officers in the Indian Army. However, many students lack clear information about which exams are required to become an officer in the army.

Becoming an officer in the Indian Army is a dream for millions of young people. Wearing the uniform, serving the country, maintaining discipline, and defending the nation in challenging situations are all part of an army officer's life. The Indian Army is not just a job; it is a symbol of honor, courage, and responsibility. Every year, thousands of young people prepare for various exams to become officers in the Indian Army, but many students lack clear information about which exams are required, the eligibility criteria, and the training process. If you also dream of becoming an officer in the Indian Army after 12th grade or graduation, let us tell you today which exams you need to take and what the training is like.

1. National Defence Academy (NDA) - If you want to become an officer in the army right after 12th grade, then NDA is the best option. The exam is conducted twice a year by UPSC. It includes a written exam in Mathematics and a General Ability Test, followed by an SSB interview and a medical test. After selection, there are 3 years of academic and military training at the NDA in Pune, followed by 1 year of training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) or OTA. Upon completion of training, you are commissioned as a Lieutenant.

2. Combined Defence Services (CDS) - If you want to become an officer in the army after graduation, you can take the CDS exam. A graduation degree in any subject is required. This exam is also conducted twice a year by UPSC. The written exam consists of English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics. This is followed by an SSB interview and a medical test. Upon selection, training takes place at IMA (Dehradun) and OTA (Chennai). After training, you are commissioned as an officer. Both Permanent Commission and Short Service Commission are available through CDS.

3. Technical Entry Scheme (TES) - This entry scheme is for students who have studied Science in 12th grade. It requires Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics in 12th grade. The selection process involves shortlisting, an SSB interview, and a medical test. It includes 4 years of engineering studies and military training. Upon completion of training, candidates receive the rank of Lieutenant.

4. Short Service Commission (SSC) - If you want to become an officer in the army for a few years, SSC is a good option. This includes SSC Technical, for engineering graduates, and SSC Non-Technical, for other graduates. The training takes place at OTA Chennai for approximately 49 weeks. The initial service period is 10 years, which can be extended up to 14 years.

5. Army Cadet College (ACC) - This path is for soldiers who are already in the army and want to become officers. It also involves a written examination, SSB interview, and medical test. This is followed by 3 years of training at ACC, 1 year of training at IMA, and then appointment as an officer.

How is the education and training for becoming an officer in the army conducted?

To become an officer in the army, a candidate has to go through several stages, which include both education and training. First, they have to prepare for a written examination, which covers subjects like mathematics, English, general knowledge, science, and current affairs. After passing the written examination, there is an SSB interview, which lasts for about 5 days and assesses the candidate's thinking ability, leadership qualities, confidence, and teamwork skills.

During the SSB, there are psychology tests, group tasks (GTO), personal interviews, and finally a conference. This is followed by a medical test, which thoroughly checks the candidate's physical and mental fitness. After passing all the stages, candidates are sent to the army academy, where they receive degree-level education along with weapons training, physical training, discipline, and leadership training.