Indian Army Invites Applications for SSC NCC Special Entry - 24th Course

The Indian Army is currently accepting applications for the SSC NCC Special Entry - 24th Course, which allows unmarried graduates to become officers. This program does not require a written exam; candidates will go through a direct SSB interview. With 170 vacancies available, including specific reservations, interested applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications and age limits. The selection process involves several stages, culminating in training at the Officers Training Academy. Upon successful completion, candidates will be commissioned as Lieutenants with a competitive salary and various allowances. The application deadline is March 16th.

By Ambika Singh Mar 5, 2026, 10:20 IST

Overview of SSC NCC Special Entry

The Indian Army has announced the opening of applications for the Short Service Commission (NCC) Special Entry - 24th Course, set to commence in October 2026. This program allows unmarried graduates to join the Indian Army as officers. Interested candidates can submit their applications online via the Army's official website. The application deadline is March 16th.

Eligibility Criteria for SSC NCC Special Entry

Candidates wishing to apply must meet the following requirements:

1. Must be a graduate with a minimum of 50% marks.

2. Should possess an NCC C certificate with at least a B grade.

3. Age must be between 19 and 25 years as of July 1, 2026.

4. Must be an Indian citizen, or a Nepali citizen, or a person of Indian origin who has migrated from specific countries to settle in India, with an eligibility certificate from the Government of India where applicable. Gorkhas from Nepal are exempt from this requirement.

Vacancies Available

The Army has announced a total of 170 vacancies under the NCC Special Entry Scheme. The distribution of vacancies is as follows:

| Category | Number of Vacancies |

|----------|---------------------|

| General | 63 |

| Wards of Battle Casualties | 7 |

Selection Process

The selection process for the SSC NCC Special Entry Scheme includes the following steps:

1. Application submission

2. SSB Interview

3. Medical Examination

4. Merit List Announcement

5. Training after Selection

Selected candidates will undergo training at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai for approximately 49 weeks, after which they will be commissioned as Lieutenants.

Salary Structure for Lieutenants

The salary details for Lieutenants in the Army are as follows:

1. Stipend during training: ₹56,100 per month

2. Basic pay after training: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500

3. Additional allowances include:

- Dearness Allowance

- HRA/Field Allowance

- Travel Allowance

Overall, the initial in-hand salary can range from ₹70,000 to ₹80,000+.