Exam overview
- Qualification
- IMA and OTA: a degree from a recognised university. Indian Naval Academy: an engineering degree or a B.Sc. with Physics, with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2. Air Force Academy: a degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2, or an engineering degree.
- Age limit
- In the 2026 II notice: IMA and Indian Naval Academy 19 to 24 years, Air Force Academy 20 to 24, OTA 19 to 25. Unmarried status and birth-date windows are set in the notice.
- Selection process
- Written examination, then SSB test and interview, then medical examination and merit list. Army candidates also register on the recruiting directorate site for SSB call-ups.
At a glance
Conducting body: Union Public Service Commission
Qualification: IMA and OTA: a degree from a recognised university. Indian Naval Academy: an engineering degree or a B.Sc. with Physics, with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2. Air Force Academy: a degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2, or an engineering degree.
Age limit: In the 2026 II notice: IMA and Indian Naval Academy 19 to 24 years, Air Force Academy 20 to 24, OTA 19 to 25. Unmarried status and birth-date windows are set in the notice.
Selection: Written examination, then SSB test and interview, then medical examination and merit list. Army candidates also register on the recruiting directorate site for SSB call-ups.
Stages to expect
Written examination conducted by UPSC.
SSB test and interview.
Medical examination and final merit list.
How to prepare
Build English, general knowledge and elementary mathematics according to the academy you target, since the written papers differ between academies.
Keep original certificates ready, as age and education are verified at the SSB stage.
Before you apply
Every cycle publishes its own notice, and it overrides anything summarised here. Save the notice, check its reference and any corrigendum, confirm qualification and age dates, and apply only through the official portal. No one can promise you a selection, so avoid anyone who does.
Official sources
Editorial review: 24 October 2026. This is an evergreen guide, not a recruitment notification. Dates, fees, vacancy numbers and cut-offs change every cycle, so check the current official notice.
