Introduction
Every year, the Indian Army opens its doors to young and talented students through the 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES). This prestigious program offers a golden opportunity for students who have completed their Class 12 (PCM) and dream of serving the nation as commissioned officers. The latest notification, Indian Army TES-55 Entry 2026, invites applications from unmarried male candidates who aspire to build a career in defense and technology.
This article provides a detailed overview of the TES-55 course, including eligibility criteria, benefits, training structure, and the step-by-step application process. By the end, you’ll understand how to prepare, apply, and start your journey toward becoming an Indian Army officer.
What is Indian Army TES-55?
The 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES-55) is a special recruitment program that allows young male candidates to join the Indian Army as Permanent Commissioned Officers after completing four years of technical and military training. The training includes a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, along with comprehensive leadership and military education.
The TES-55 course is scheduled to commence in July 2026, and the selection process will begin in late 2025. Through this entry, students can directly join the Indian Army without appearing for the NDA exam, provided they meet the required JEE Main 2025 criteria.
Program Details
The TES-55 course is designed to combine technical education with military training. It’s conducted at some of India’s most prestigious military institutions:
- Phase I: Three years of integrated basic military and engineering training at one of the Cadet Training Wings — CME Pune, MCTE Mhow, or MCEME Secunderabad.
- Phase II: One year of additional integrated training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun.
Upon successful completion of the program, candidates receive a Bachelor of Engineering degree and are commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army.
Eligibility Criteria
1. Nationality:
- Indian citizen, or
- Subject of Nepal, or
- Indian origin person settled permanently in India from select countries.
2. Marital Status:
- Only unmarried male candidates can apply.
3. Age Limit:
- Between 16½ to 19½ years as on 01 July 2026.
(Born between 02 Jan 2007 and 01 Jan 2010, both inclusive)
4. Educational Qualification:
- Passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics (PCM)
- Minimum 60% aggregate marks in PCM.
- Must have appeared in JEE (Main) 2025.
Physical and Medical Fitness Requirements
Physical Fitness
Before joining training, candidates must meet basic physical standards, including:
- 2.4 km run: within 10 minutes 30 seconds
- 40 push-ups
- 6 pull-ups
- 30 sit-ups
- Basic swimming knowledge
Medical Standards
- Candidates must meet Army medical fitness standards.
- Medical tests include vision, hearing, heart, and overall physical fitness.
- Results of medical boards are final and confidential.
Training & Commission
- Total Duration: 4 years (3 years at Cadet Training Wings + 1 year at IMA Dehradun)
- Degree Awarded: Engineering Degree
- Rank on Commission: Lieutenant
- Type of Commission: Permanent Commission
Training Institutions:
- CME Pune
- MCTE Mhow
- MCEME Secunderabad
- IMA Dehradun
Salary & Benefits
- Stipend during Training (at IMA): ₹56,100 per month
- After Commission (Lieutenant): ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month
- CTC after Commission: ₹17–18 Lakh per annum (approx.)
- Additional Allowances:
- Dearness, Dress, and Travel Allowances
- Free Medical Cover
- Risk & Hardship Allowance (up to ₹42,500/month based on posting)
Insurance & Security
- During Training: Insurance cover of ₹15 lakh (premium ₹7,200 for 3 years)
- After Commission: ₹1.25 crore insurance cover
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to apply for Indian Army TES-55 Entry 2026:
1: Visit the Official Website
Go to www.joinindianarmy.nic.in and click on “Online Application.”
2: Register and Fill Form
Create a profile by entering personal, academic, and contact details accurately. Carefully read all instructions before submission.
3: Upload Required Documents
- 10th and 12th marksheets and certificates
- JEE (Main) 2025 scorecard
- Photo ID proof
- Passport-size photos (20 copies)
4: Submit the Application
Review your application and click “Submit” before the deadline.
No corrections will be allowed after submission.
5: Download and Print
Take two printouts of the application form—one for your records and one to carry during the SSB interview.
Important Documents for SSB Interview
- Class 10th and 12th certificates (original and photocopy)
- JEE (Main) 2025 result
- Government-issued ID proof
- Passport-size photographs
- Printed copy of the application form
Career Progression
The Indian Army offers structured promotions based on experience and service:
| Rank | Promotion Criteria |
|---|---|
| Lieutenant | On Commission |
| Captain | 2 years of service |
| Major | 6 years of service |
| Lt. Colonel | 13 years of service |
| Colonel | Selection basis |
| Brigadier | Based on performance |
| Major General | Senior appointment |
| Lieutenant General | Top leadership |
| General | Chief of Army Staff |
Conclusion
The Indian Army TES-55 Entry 2026 is more than a recruitment program—it’s a gateway to honor, leadership, and lifelong learning. For students passionate about technology and defense, this opportunity offers an unparalleled career path combining engineering excellence and military service.
If you’re a Class 12 PCM student aspiring to serve the nation, don’t miss this chance. Prepare well for JEE (Main) 2025, keep your documents ready, and apply early on joinindianarmy.nic.in before 13 November 2025.
Join our WhatsApp group for the latest updates on Indian Army recruitment, internships, and government job alerts — stay informed, stay ahead, and take your first step toward becoming an officer in the Indian Army.
