Defence & Forces · Career guide for students
Indian Army Officer (NDA / CDS)
Lead troops at 18,000 ft Siachen or peacekeeping in Africa. — A complete career guide for Indian students.
3 yrs NDA + 1 yr IMA, or 1 yr OTA / IMA after CDS12th (NDA) / Graduate (CDS / OTA)
Why this career matters in India
Defence services offer the highest social respect and one of the best perks (housing, healthcare, CSD).
Step-by-step roadmap
- 1
NDA after 12 PCM (Air/Navy) or any (Army)
- 2
SSB 5-day interview
- 3
IMA / AFA / INA training
- 4
Posting as Lt
Skills you'll need
Physical fitnessOfficer-Like Qualities (SSB)LeadershipMaths/English aptitude
Pros
- Fitness + travel + job security
- Pension + lifelong CSD privileges
- Adventurous postings
Watch-outs
- · Family separations
- · Combat / hardship postings
Top recruiters & employers
Indian ArmyIAFIndian Navy
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