DRDO Recruitment 2025: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced a golden opportunity for aspiring engineers and technicians with the release of the DRDO Recruitment 2025 notification for 195 Apprentice posts. This apprenticeship program under the Apprentices Act, 1961, offers hands-on training in cutting-edge defence technologies across various DRDO labs and establishments in India. If you’re a fresh graduate, diploma holder, or ITI pass-out looking to kickstart your career in the defence sector, this is your chance to gain practical experience while earning a stipend.
As of October 2025, the application window is open, with the last date to apply set for November 15, 2025. The recruitment drive targets Graduate Apprentices, Technician Apprentices, and Trade Apprentices in fields like Mechanical Engineering, Electronics, Computer Science, and more. This SEO-optimized guide covers every detail about the DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2025, including eligibility, vacancy breakdown, online application steps, selection criteria, and preparation tips. Stay tuned to the official DRDO website (www.drdo.gov.in) for updates, and apply soon to secure your spot in one of India’s premier R&D organizations.
Overview of DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2025
DRDO, under the Ministry of Defence, is renowned for its contributions to indigenous defence technologies, including missiles, radars, and aerospace systems. The DRDO Apprentice Program 2025 is designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry skills, providing one-year training apprenticeships. Successful candidates will work in DRDO’s 50+ labs, gaining exposure to real-world projects while complying with the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).
Key highlights of this recruitment:
Total Vacancies: 195 Apprentice Posts
Training Duration: 1 Year (extendable based on performance)
Locations: Various DRDO establishments across India (e.g., Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Delhi, Pune)
Stipend: As per Apprentices Act—₹9,000 for Graduate Apprentices, ₹8,000 for Technician/Diploma, ₹7,000 for Trade Apprentices (plus incentives under NAPS)
Age Limit: 18-28 years (relaxations for reserved categories)
Application Mode: Online only via the DRDO RAC portal or NAPS portal
This initiative not only offers skill development but also serves as a stepping stone to permanent roles in DRDO or other PSUs. The notification was released on October 1, 2025, emphasizing diversity and inclusion for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates.
DRDO Apprentice Vacancy Details 2025
The 195 posts are distributed across different categories and trades to meet DRDO’s diverse technical needs. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on the official notification:
Eligibility Criteria for DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2025
To apply for the DRDO 195 Apprentice Posts 2025, candidates must meet the following criteria. Ensure you qualify before proceeding:
1. Educational Qualification
Graduate Apprentice: Bachelor’s degree (B.E./B.Tech) in relevant engineering discipline from a recognized university with minimum 60% aggregate (50% for SC/ST/PwD).
Technician Apprentice: 3-year Diploma in Engineering/Technology from a recognized polytechnic with 60% marks (relaxed for reserved categories).
Trade Apprentice: ITI certificate (NCVT/SCVT) in specified trades with pass percentage.
2. Age Limit
Minimum: 18 years
Maximum: 28 years as on the notification date (October 1, 2025)
Relaxations:
SC/ST: +5 years
OBC (NCL): +3 years
PwD: +10 years (additional to category relaxation)
Ex-Servicemen: Service period +3 years
3. Nationality
Indian citizens only. Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) may apply if eligible under rules.
4. Other Requirements
No prior apprenticeship experience required, but candidates who have completed one earlier are ineligible.
Proficiency in English and basic computer skills preferred.
Medical fitness certificate may be required post-selection.
Disqualified candidates include those with ongoing disciplinary proceedings or criminal records. Verify your eligibility using the self-assessment tool on the DRDO website.
Important Dates for DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2025
Mark these dates to stay on track:
Notification Release Date: October 1, 2025
Online Application Start Date: October 5, 2025
Last Date to Apply: November 15, 2025
Application Correction Window: November 16-20, 2025
Merit List Release: December 10, 2025
Document Verification & Medical Exam: December 15-25, 2025
Training Commencement: January 1, 2026
Any changes will be updated on the official website. Set reminders for the application deadline to avoid missing out.
How to Apply for DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2025: Step-by-Step Guide
The application process is entirely online through the DRDO Recruitment and Assessment Centre (RAC) portal or the Apprenticeship India portal (www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in). No application fee is required, making it accessible to all eligible candidates. Follow these steps:
- Notification PDF Link: Click Here
- NATS Portal (Graduate/Diploma Apply): Click Here
- Apprenticeship India Portal (ITI Apply): Click Here
- Official Website: Click Here
- Visit the Official Website: Go to www.drdo.gov.in > Careers > Apprentice Recruitment 2025, or directly to www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in.
- Register as a New User: Click on “New Registration” and provide basic details like name, email, mobile number, and date of birth. Verify via OTP sent to your email/phone.
- Fill the Online Application Form: Log in with your credentials. Enter personal details, educational qualifications, category, and preferred trade/discipline. Upload scanned documents:
Passport-size photograph (recent, 3.5×4.5 cm, <50 KB, JPG)
Signature (black ink on white paper, <20 KB, JPG)
Educational certificates/marksheets (PDF, <1 MB each)
Caste/PwD certificate (if applicable, issued by competent authority) - Select Preferences: Choose up to three DRDO lab locations based on vacancies.
- Preview and Submit: Review the form for errors. Submit and note the application ID/registration number for future reference.
- Download Acknowledgment: Print or save the confirmation page. Track application status via the portal.
Direct Link: Apply for DRDO Apprentice 2025 (active from October 5, 2025).
Application Tips
Use a valid email and mobile for updates.
Ensure documents are clear and in prescribed format to avoid rejection.
If facing technical issues, contact DRDO helpline: 011-23405100 or email rac@drdo.gov.in.
Selection Process for DRDO Apprentice 2025
The selection is merit-based, without a written exam or interview for most posts:
Shortlisting: Based on percentage of marks in qualifying exam (e.g., B.Tech/ITI). A merit list will be prepared category-wise.
Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates (top 3x vacancies) must attend with originals at designated DRDO centers.
Medical Fitness Test: Basic health check-up to ensure suitability for lab work.
Final Allotment: Based on merit, preferences, and reservation. Waitlist candidates may be called if seats vacant.
For Trade Apprentices, a practical skill test may be conducted if applications exceed vacancies. The entire process is transparent, with results published online.
Stipend, Benefits, and Career Prospects
Monthly Stipend:
Graduate: ₹9,000
Technician/Diploma: ₹8,000
Trade: ₹7,000
Additional: ₹1,500-2,500 under NAPS for shared contributions.
Benefits: Free training, safety gear, medical insurance, and certification upon completion. No accommodation provided, but some labs offer subsidized facilities.
Career Growth: Apprentices often get preference for DRDO’s Junior Research Fellowships, Technician roles, or absorb into other defence PSUs like HAL or BEL. Many alumni secure jobs in ISRO, ONGC, or private firms.
Preparation Tips for DRDO Apprentice Selection
While no exam is involved, strengthen your profile:
Update your resume with relevant projects/internships.
Prepare for document verification by organizing certificates chronologically.
Research DRDO labs and their projects to express interest during counseling.
Join online forums like DRDO’s LinkedIn page for insights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2025
Q1: What is the last date to apply for DRDO Apprentice 2025?
A: November 15, 2025. Apply early to avoid server issues.
Q2: Is there an application fee for DRDO 195 Apprentice Posts?
A: No, it’s free for all categories.
Q3: Can final-year students apply for DRDO Apprentice 2025?
A: Yes, if they complete their course by the training start date (January 2026).
Q4: What documents are required for verification?
A: Educational certificates, ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN), category certificate, and passport-size photos.
Q5: Will DRDO provide accommodation during training?
A: Not mandatory, but some labs offer hostels on a first-come basis.
Q6: How to check the DRDO Apprentice Merit List 2025?
A: Visit www.drdo.gov.in or www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in under the results section in December 2025.
Q7: Is the DRDO Apprentice training paid?
A: Yes, with a fixed stipend as per government norms.
Don’t miss this opportunity to join DRDO’s innovative ecosystem through the DRDO Recruitment 2025 for 195 Apprentice Posts. Apply now, prepare your documents, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in defence technology. For the latest notifications, bookmark www.drdo.gov.in and subscribe to alerts. If you have queries, comment below or reach out to the helpline.