Indian Army Technical Entry Scheme: If you’ve just completed your Class 12 with a science background and dream of serving the nation as a commissioned officer, the Indian Army Technical Entry Scheme (TES) could be your perfect gateway. Unlike other defense exams, TES allows you to join the Indian Army right after 10+2 without taking the NDA exam.
This direct entry scheme is specially designed for candidates who have passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) and wish to join the technical branch of the Indian Army as a Lieutenant. Let’s break down everything you need to know about this highly sought-after entry point into the armed forces, including eligibility, salary, application steps, and selection process.
What is the Indian Army Technical Entry Scheme?
The Technical Entry Scheme (TES) is a unique officer entry route that allows unmarried male candidates who have completed 10+2 with PCM and appeared in JEE Mains to be directly recruited into the Indian Army’s technical branch.
Selected candidates are granted permanent commission after completing four years of training, which includes Basic Military Training and Technical Training at designated military institutes. On completion, they’re commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army.
Who Can Apply for Indian Army TES 2025? (Eligibility Criteria)
To apply for the Indian Army 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India (or subject of Nepal/Bhutan or a Tibetan refugee as per Government norms).
- Educational Qualification:
- Must have passed 10+2 or equivalent with at least 60% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM).
- Appearing in JEE Main (of the year of application) is mandatory.
- Age Limit: Candidates should be between 16½ and 19½ years on the first day of the month in which the course is due to commence.
- Marital Status: Only unmarried male candidates are eligible.
Note: As of now, girls are not eligible for the TES entry in the Indian Army.
How to Apply for Indian Army Technical Entry Scheme 2025?
Wondering how to apply for TES in Indian Army? The application process is entirely online and can be done via the official portal:
Step-by-Step TES 2025 Application Process:
- Visit the official Indian Army website: joinindianarmy.nic.in
- Go to the “Officers Entry Apply/Login” section.
- Register yourself with basic details (if not already registered).
- Click on Technical Entry Scheme (10+2) TES-XX link.
- Fill out the online application form with correct academic and personal information.
- Upload the required documents (10+2 mark sheet, JEE scorecard, photo, etc.)
- Submit the form and take a printout for reference.
Important: There is no application fee for TES entries.
Selection Process for Indian Army TES
The selection for the TES entry is not based on a written exam. Here’s how the process works:
- Shortlisting of Applications: Based on your 10+2 PCM marks and JEE Main rank.
- SSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for a 5-day SSB interview conducted at designated centers (e.g., Bhopal, Allahabad, Bengaluru, or Kapurthala).
- Medical Examination: Candidates who clear SSB are then medically examined.
- Final Merit List: Based on SSB performance and medical fitness. No written exam is conducted.
Salary and Career Growth in Indian Army TES
One of the major attractions of TES is the prestigious career path and attractive salary structure. Here’s what you can expect:
Indian Army TES Officer Salary:
- During Training: Stipend of ₹56,100 per month.
- On Commission (Lieutenant Rank): ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (Level 10 Pay Matrix)
- Additional allowances include:
- Military Service Pay (MSP): ₹15,500
- Field Area Allowance: ₹6,300–₹16,900
- High Altitude Allowance, Uniform Allowance, and more
Promotions & Ranks:
- Lieutenant → Captain → Major → Lieutenant Colonel → Colonel → Brigadier and beyond
With time, experience, and performance, TES cadets can climb up to the highest ranks in the Indian Army.
Indian Army Technical Entry Scheme Training Details
Selected candidates undergo a comprehensive four-year training program:
- 1 year Basic Military Training at Officers Training Academy (OTA), Gaya.
- 3 years Technical Training at CME Pune / MCTE Mhow / MCEME Secunderabad.
- Awarded an Engineering Degree upon successful completion.
This blend of military discipline and technical education prepares candidates for life as a skilled technical officer in the Indian Army.
Why Choose Indian Army TES?
The Indian Army Technical Entry Scheme 2025 is a golden opportunity for bright, disciplined, and determined young men to build a respected and adventurous career in the Indian Army—starting right after 10+2. With a structured career path, handsome salary, lifelong pride, and the chance to serve the nation, TES continues to be one of the most aspirational routes for young Indian defense enthusiasts.
