Exciting Opportunity: DRDO ISSA Hiring 21 Apprentices – Apply Online Now!

Overview

Dream of working with India’s prestigious Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO)? Here’s your chance! The Institute for Systems Studies and Analyses (ISSA), a unit of DRDO, is looking for talented graduates and diploma holders to join as apprentices. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a defense research organization and learn from industry experts. The 12-month apprenticeship program offers excellent stipend and valuable professional development.

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🏢 Organization Details

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📊 Total Vacancies

Total Posts Available: 21 Apprentice Positions

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💼 Post Type & Job Type

• Post Type: Apprenticeship (Training Position)
• Job Type: Full-time Apprenticeship Training Program
• Training Duration: 12 Months

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📱 Application Mode

Online via Email – Applications must be sent in PDF format through email (Digital submission)

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📅 Important Dates

⚠️ Important: Apply at least 2-3 days before the deadline to avoid technical issues. Email submissions must be received before the deadline.

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📍 Vacancy Details – Category-wise Breakdown

DRDO ISSA is offering apprenticeships in different fields. Here’s the complete breakdown:

📌 Note: The number of vacancies is indicative and may increase or decrease at the organization’s discretion.

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🎓 Educational Qualifications

Here are the eligibility requirements for each position:

Graduate Apprentice (15 + 1 = 16 positions)

Qualification Required:

For Computer Science & Engineering (15 Posts):

• Bachelor of Engineering (B.E) OR Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Computer Science & Engineering
• From a recognized Indian University or Institute
• Must have passed with First Division (60%+ marks or equivalent grade)
• Must have completed a full-time regular course

For Mathematics (1 Post):

• Master of Science (M.Sc) in Mathematics
• From a recognized Indian University or Institute
• Must have passed with First Division (60%+ marks or equivalent grade)
• Must have completed a full-time regular course

Technician Apprentice (5 positions)

Qualification Required:

For Computer Science (Diploma):

• Diploma (full-time, regular course) in Computer Science
• From an institute recognized by State or Central Government
• Diploma board recognition is mandatory

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⏳ Age Limit

Age Limit: Not specified in the recruitment notification

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💰 Stipend / Salary Details (Per Month)

The stipend structure is competitive and based on your qualification:

Total Stipend Over 12 Months:

• Graduate Apprentices: ₹12,300 × 12 = ₹1,47,600
• Technician Apprentices: ₹10,900 × 12 = ₹1,30,800

Important Information:

✓ Stipend is paid monthly (directly to your bank account)
✓ No deductions for taxes or other charges (gross amount)
✓ Additional perks may be available as per DRDO guidelines
✓ Completion Certificate provided after successfully finishing the program

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🎯 Selection Process

The selection process is transparent and merit-based. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Application Screening

• DRDO ISSA will review all applications received before the deadline
• Applications are checked for completeness and eligibility
• Only complete applications will be considered

Step 2: Merit List Preparation

• Selection will be based on marks obtained in your qualifying examination (college result)
• Merit lists will be prepared separately for each category:
  • UR (Unreserved/General)
  • SC (Scheduled Caste)
  • ST (Scheduled Tribe)
  • OBC (Other Backward Class)
  • PwD (Persons with Disability)

Step 3: Shortlisting by Selection Board

• A Selection Board constituted by the Director, ISSA will review the merit list
• Shortlisted candidates will be identified for engagement

Step 4: Final Offer & Engagement

• Offer Letters will be issued to selected candidates
• All communication will be through email only (no phone calls or postal mail)
• You’ll receive joining instructions via email

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🎓 Important Eligibility Conditions

Before applying, read these important conditions carefully:

Passing Year Eligibility:

• ✓ You are eligible ONLY if you passed your qualifying examination (college/diploma completion) in the years: 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025
• ✗ You are NOT eligible if you passed before 2021 or after 2025

Work Experience:

• ✗ NOT eligible if you already have 1 year or more of work experience
• ✓ You must be a fresh graduate/diploma holder

Previous Apprenticeship:

• ✗ NOT eligible if you have already completed an apprenticeship
• ✗ NOT eligible if you are currently undergoing any apprenticeship

Course Type:

• ✓ Only regular full-time courses count
• ✗ Distance learning, correspondence, or part-time courses are NOT accepted
• ✗ Online degrees from unrecognized institutions are NOT accepted

NATS Registration (MANDATORY):

• ✓ You MUST be enrolled on the NATS portal (National Apprenticeship Training Scheme)
• ✓ Portal URL: https://nats.education.gov.in
• ✓ Complete NATS registration before applying to ISSA
• ✗ Applications without valid NATS enrollment will be rejected

💡 Pro Tip: Register on NATS portal at least 5-7 days before applying to ISSA to avoid delays.

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📑 How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps carefully to apply successfully:

Step 1: Register on NATS Portal (MANDATORY)

1. Visit: https://nats.education.gov.in
2. Click on “Register” or “New Registration”
3. Fill in your personal details:
   • Full Name (as per certificate)
   • Date of Birth
   • Email Address (active and valid)
   • Mobile Number
   • Educational qualification details
4. Complete the registration
5. Note down your NATS Registration Number – you’ll need it for ISSA application

Step 2: Download ISSA Application Form

1. Visit the official DRDO website: https://drdo.gov.in
2. Search for “ISSA Apprentice Recruitment 2026” OR
3. Download directly from the notification PDF: Official Notification
4. Print or save the application form on your computer

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all the following documents in PDF format (scanned copies):

• Filled application form
• Your degree/diploma certificate
• Mark sheet/result document
• NATS registration proof
• Passport-size photograph (scanned)
• Any other required documents mentioned in notification

Step 4: Fill the Application Form

Complete all fields in the application form:

• Full Name
• Qualification (degree/diploma details)
• Date of passing examination
• Marks obtained / Percentage / CGPA
• NATS Registration Number
• Email Address (must match NATS registration)
• Mobile Number (must match NATS registration)
• Preferred field/category

Step 5: Scan All Documents

• Scan each document clearly at 300 DPI
• Save in PDF format (not JPG or PNG)
• Combine all documents into ONE PDF file
• File size should not exceed 10 MB

Step 6: Email Your Application

Send Your Application To:

Email ID: [Email address from official notification]
[Check the official notification for the exact email ID as it may be updated]

Email Subject: “ISSA Apprentice Recruitment 2026 – [Your Full Name] – [Your Category]”

Example: “ISSA Apprentice Recruitment 2026 – Rajesh Kumar – Computer Science”

Email Body: “Dear Sir/Madam,

Please find attached my application for the ISSA Apprentice Recruitment 2026 for [Position Category].

My NATS Registration Number is: [Your NATS Reg No.]

Thank you.

Regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]”

Step 7: Keep Records

• Keep a copy of the email you sent
• Note the email sent date and time
• Keep NATS registration number safe
• Keep a backup of all documents

✓ Pro Tip: Apply early. Send your application 2-3 weeks before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

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⚙️ Key Documents Required

Prepare these documents in PDF format before applying:

Educational Documents:

• ✓ Bachelor’s Degree/Diploma Certificate (original or provisional)
• ✓ Marksheet/Result document (official)
• ✓ Transcripts (if available)
• ✓ CGPA/Percentage Certificate

Registration Documents:

• ✓ NATS Portal Registration Proof (Print the registration page)
• ✓ NATS Registration Number

Personal Documents:

• ✓ Valid Photo ID (Aadhaar / Passport / Voter ID / Driving License)
• ✓ Passport-size Photograph (colored, digital copy)
• ✓ Filled Application Form (duly completed and signed)

For Category-wise Benefits (if applicable):

• ✓ Caste Certificate (for SC/ST/OBC candidates)
• ✓ Disability Certificate (for PwD candidates, if applicable)
• ✓ Any other certificates mentioned in official notification

💡 Important: All documents must be scanned clearly and converted to PDF. Blurry or unclear documents may lead to rejection.

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🏆 Why Choose DRDO ISSA Apprenticeship?

Here are some great reasons to apply:

✓ Prestigious Organization: Learn from India’s top defense research institute
✓ Good Stipend: Earn ₹10,900 – ₹12,300 per month during training
✓ Career Development: Gain hands-on experience in research & development
✓ Professional Growth: Network with experts and scientists
✓ Certificate: Official DRDO apprenticeship certificate upon completion
✓ Resume Boost: Strong credential for future job applications
✓ Skill Enhancement: Learn latest technologies and research methodologies
✓ Potential Job Opportunities: Some apprentices may get employment offers (not guaranteed)

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⚠️ Important Notes & Warnings

Before applying, know these important points:

⚠️ No Job Guarantee: This is a training program. DRDO/ISSA has no obligation to offer permanent employment after apprenticeship.

⚠️ No Accommodation: DRDO will NOT provide boarding or lodging. You must arrange your own accommodation in Delhi.

⚠️ Full-time Program: The apprenticeship is a full-time commitment. You cannot work elsewhere during this period.

⚠️ NATS Enrollment is Mandatory: You MUST have valid NATS registration before applying. Applications without NATS enrollment will be rejected.

⚠️ Only Email Applications: DRDO will ONLY accept applications via email in PDF format. No online portal, no postal applications.

⚠️ No Correspondence on Rejection: DRDO will NOT respond to queries about rejected applications.

⚠️ All Communication via Email: All updates, results, and joining instructions will be sent through email only.

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📘 Official Links & Resources

Here are all the important links you need:

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How many vacancies are available?

A: Total 21 apprentice positions are available:

• 15 for Computer Science & Engineering graduates
• 1 for Mathematics graduate
• 5 for Computer Science diploma holders

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Q2: What is the stipend?

A: Monthly stipend is:

• Graduate Apprentices: ₹12,300/month
• Technician Apprentices: ₹10,900/month

Total for 12 months: ₹1,47,600 (graduates) or ₹1,30,800 (diploma holders)

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Q3: Is NATS registration mandatory?

A: Yes, absolutely. You MUST be enrolled on NATS portal (https://nats.education.gov.in) before applying. Without valid NATS registration, your application will be rejected.

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Q4: Can I apply if I passed in 2020?

A: No. You must have passed in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025 only. If you passed before 2021, you’re not eligible.

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Q5: I have 2 years of work experience. Can I apply?

A: No. Candidates with 1 year or more work experience are not eligible. You must be a fresher.

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Q6: Can I apply offline or through online portal?

A: No. You can ONLY apply by sending your application as PDF through email. Offline or online portal applications are not accepted.

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Q7: Is age limit mentioned?

A: Age limit is not specified in the recruitment notification. Fresh graduates/diploma holders of any age (who passed in 2021-2025) can apply.

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Q8: Will accommodation be provided?

A: No. DRDO will NOT provide boarding or lodging. You must arrange your own accommodation in Delhi.

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Q9: Is there any entrance exam?

A: No exam or interview. Selection is purely on merit (marks obtained in your degree/diploma).

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Q10: What if I’m selected? Will I get a job after apprenticeship?

A: The apprenticeship is a training program only. There is NO guarantee of permanent employment. However, your performance during apprenticeship may lead to job opportunities.

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Q11: How many merit lists will be prepared?

A: Separate merit lists for each category:

• UR (General)
• SC
• ST
• OBC
• PwD

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Q12: When will I get my stipend?

A: Stipend will be credited to your bank account monthly. You’ll receive bank account details during joining.

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🎯 Quick Summary Table

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✅ Application Checklist

Before hitting send on your email, verify:

• Registered on NATS portal (https://nats.education.gov.in)
• Have your NATS Registration Number
• Downloaded application form from DRDO official website
• Filled all fields in application form completely
• Scanned all documents in PDF format (clear quality)
• Combined all documents into one PDF file (max 10 MB)
• Email ID and phone number match NATS registration
• Email subject line follows the format
• Email body is professional and complete
• Deadline is at least 2-3 days away
• Email ID for submission is correct (from official notification)
• Kept a copy of email sent with date/time

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Best of Luck! 🍀 Apply now for this exciting opportunity with DRDO ISSA!