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The Indian Army NCC Special Entry 2026 notification for the 124th Course (October 2026) is officially announced. This is one of the most prestigious direct-entry opportunities for NCC cadets who dream of wearing the olive green uniform — without appearing for a written exam.
If you hold an NCC ‘C’ Certificate and meet the eligibility criteria, this could be your direct gateway to the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai.
Let’s break down every important detail — eligibility, vacancy, age limit, selection process, and how to apply online.
What Is Indian Army NCC Special Entry?
The Indian Army NCC Special Entry Scheme allows eligible NCC cadets to join the Army as Short Service Commission (SSC) Officers without a written examination. Selection is based on:
- Academic performance
- NCC grading
- SSB interview
- Medical fitness
The selected candidates undergo training at Officers Training Academy and are commissioned as Lieutenants after successful completion.
Important Dates (Expected Timeline)
- Notification Release: Early 2026
- Online Application Start: Likely mid-2026
- Last Date to Apply: Around 3–4 weeks after application opens
- Course Commencement: October 2026
Always check the official portal before applying.
Vacancy Details – 124th Course (Oct 2026)
For the 124th NCC Special Entry Course, the total expected vacancies are:
- Men: Approx. 70 posts
- Women: Approx. 14 posts
- Total: Around 84 posts
(Exact vacancy numbers will be confirmed in the official notification.)
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Graduate degree (minimum 50% aggregate marks)
- Final-year students can apply (subject to conditions)
NCC Requirement
- Must hold NCC ‘C’ Certificate
- Minimum ‘B’ Grade
Age Limit
- 19 to 25 years
- (Born between specified dates as per notification)
No UPSC written exam required.
Selection Process
The Indian Army NCC Special Entry 2026 selection process includes:
Shortlisting of Applications
Based on graduation percentage and NCC record.
SSB Interview
Conducted at selected SSB centers.
Duration: 5 days
Includes:
- Psychological tests
- Group tasks
- Personal interview
Medical Examination
Candidates recommended by SSB undergo medical fitness tests.
Merit List
Final merit based on SSB performance.
No written exam. No screening test beyond SSB.
How to Apply Online
Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official website:
https://joinindianarmy.nic.in - Click on “Officer Entry Apply/Login”
- Register (if new user) or log in
- Select NCC Special Entry 124th Course (Oct 2026)
- Fill personal, academic, and NCC details
- Upload required documents
- Submit and take printout
Application mode: Online only
Training Details
Selected candidates will report to:
Officers Training Academy
- Training Duration: 49 weeks
- Commission Type: Short Service Commission (SSC)
- Rank After Training: Lieutenant
Salary & Benefits

After commissioning:
- Starting Salary: ₹56,100 + allowances
- Military Service Pay
- Free medical facilities
- Leave benefits
- Pension benefits (as per SSC rules)
Plus, unmatched respect and career growth.
Why NCC Special Entry Is Highly Competitive
- No written exam
- Direct SSB call
- Limited seats
- High-quality candidates
Thousands apply. Only a few make it.
If you’re serious, start preparing for SSB now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is there any written exam in NCC Special Entry?
No. Selection is based on shortlisting and SSB interview only.
Q2. Can final-year students apply?
Yes, provided they meet percentage criteria before the deadline.
Q3. What is the training duration?
49 weeks at OTA Chennai.
Q4. Is this a permanent commission?
No, it is a Short Service Commission.