The Indian Army NCC Special Entry 124th Course October 2026 is a prestigious Short Service Commission (SSC) Non-Technical entry scheme for NCC ‘C’ Certificate holders and wards of battle casualties. It offers a direct path to become an officer in the Indian Army without a written exam—shortlisting leads straight to SSB Interview.
Latest Update (as of February 24, 2026):
- Online applications are open and active (started February 12/13, 2026).
- Last date to apply: March 16, 2026 (up to 3:00 PM / 1500 hrs)—apply soon via the official portal!
- Notification released in February 2026; course commences in October 2026 at Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai.
- No application fee for any category.
- Total vacancies: 76 (including reservations for wards of battle casualties).
This is an excellent opportunity for unmarried graduates with NCC background to join as Lieutenant with great pay, perks, and career growth.
Key Highlights
- Post Name: Short Service Commission (Non-Technical) Officer – NCC Special Entry
- Commission Type: Short Service Commission (SSC) – extendable, with option for Permanent Commission after 10 years.
- Training: 49 weeks at OTA Chennai, starting October 2026.
- Stipend During Training: ₹56,100 per month.
- Pay After Commissioning: Lieutenant rank; CTC approx. ₹17-18 lakh per annum (plus allowances, free medical, annual home travel, etc.).
Vacancies
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| NCC Men (General) | 63 |
| NCC Women | 05 |
| Wards of Battle Casualties (Men) | 07 |
| Wards of Battle Casualties (Women) | 01 |
| Total | 76 |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | February 2026 |
| Online Application Start (Men) | February 12, 2026 |
| Online Application Start (Women) | February 13, 2026 |
| Online Application Last Date | March 16, 2026 (1500 hrs) |
| Shortlisting for SSB (Tentative) | First week of May 2026 (based on graduation % cut-off) |
| SSB Interview Dates | May/June 2026 (max 5 days; choice open in April) |
| Course Commencement | October 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria (Simple Summary)
- Marital Status: Only unmarried male and female candidates.
- Age Limit (as on July 1, 2026): 19 to 25 years (born between July 2, 2001, and July 1, 2007).
- Educational Qualification:
- Graduation (Bachelor’s degree) in any stream with minimum 50% marks from a recognized university.
- For NCC candidates: Minimum ‘B’ Grade in NCC ‘C’ Certificate (2-year validity or as per rules).
- For wards of battle casualties: Graduation with 50% marks (no NCC required).
- Physical Standards (minimum):
- Height: Men – 157.5 cm; Women – 152 cm.
- Running: 2.4 km in 15 minutes (qualifying).
- Other medical standards as per official guidelines.
- Important Note: Candidates can apply for only one SSB (not both CDSE and NCC entry if overlapping).
Application Fee
- ₹0 (No fee for General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, Female, or any category).
Selection Process
- Online Application & Shortlisting (based on graduation percentage and other criteria).
- SSB Interview (5-day process: Screening, Psychological Tests, GTO Tasks, Interview).
- Medical Examination.
- Merit List & Joining Letter.
No written exam—direct to SSB for shortlisted candidates.
How to Apply (Simple Steps – Apply Now!)
- Visit the official website: https://joinindianarmy.nic.in/
- Go to “Officers Entry Apply/Login” section.
- Register (if new) or login with existing credentials.
- Select “NCC Special Entry – 124th Course (Oct 2026)” for Men/Women.
- Fill details, upload photo/signature/documents (NCC ‘C’ cert, degree marks, ID proof, etc.).
- Preview, submit, and save/print confirmation.
No fee payment required.
Important Links
- Official Join Indian Army Website: https://joinindianarmy.nic.in/ (Apply here & check updates)
- Download Notification PDF: Available on official site (search “NCC Special Entry 124th Course Oct 2026” or check under “Officers” > Notifications; separate for Men & Women).
- Latest Updates & Press Notes: https://joinindianarmy.nic.in/ (Regularly check for SSB dates or corrections).
Note: This recruitment is in the active application stage—last date March 16, 2026! Always verify eligibility, documents, and any changes from the official Join Indian Army portal only (avoid third-party sites). Prepare for SSB by focusing on personality, leadership, and current affairs. Good luck to all aspirants—apply today and aim for the Olive Green! Stay updated via official sources.
