How to Join DRDO: A Complete Guide

7 minute read
How to Join DRDO

Are you a student dreaming of working with India’s top defence research organization? The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) offers exciting career opportunities for those interested in science, technology, and serving the nation. In this blog, we bring you a complete guide on how to join DRDO, including eligibility, top courses, exams like CEPTAM and GATE, job roles, and step-by-step details for students from Class 10 onwards. Whether you’re from a science, engineering, or diploma background, this guide will help you understand the right path to start your DRDO journey.

What is DRDO?

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is India’s leading defence R&D agency, working under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. It was established in 1958 and plays a crucial role in developing defence technologies to support the Indian Armed Forces. As of 2025, DRDO operates with over 52 laboratories across the country and employs more than 30,000 personnel, including over 5,000 scientists.

DRDO works on a wide range of cutting-edge defence projects such as missile systems (like Agni and Akash), fighter aircraft (like Tejas), drones, radars, electronic warfare systems, tanks (like Arjun), and cybersecurity tools. Its aim is to make India self-reliant in critical military technologies under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).

ParameterDetails
Founded1958
HeadquartersNew Delhi
Works underMinistry of Defence
Employees (2025)Approx. 30,000+ (including scientists, engineers, and technical staff)
Famous ProjectsAgni & Prithvi Missiles, Tejas Fighter Jet, Arjun Tank, Pinaka, BrahMos
Latest Initiative (2025)Focus on AI-enabled defence systems, hypersonic missiles, unmanned platforms
Motto“Balasya Mulam Vigyanam” – Strength’s Origin is in Science

Eligibility Criteria for DRDO 2025

To be eligible to operate at the DRDO, you must meet certain qualifications or specifications.

  • You must be an Indian citizen to apply for any DRDO post.
  • You need a first-class degree (60% or more) in Engineering (B.E./B.Tech) or Science (M.Sc.) in a relevant subject.
  • GATE score is compulsory—you must have a valid GATE score from 2023, 2024, or 2025.
  • For Clinical Psychology posts, you also need RCI registration.
  • Final year students can apply, but you must submit your degree/provisional certificate by July 31, 2025.
  • Maximum age is 35 years for General category; relaxation is given for OBC (up to 38 years), SC/ST (up to 40 years), and PwBD (extra 10 years).
  • Central Government employees get an additional 5-year age relaxation.
  • You need a valid category certificate if applying under OBC, SC, ST, or EWS (must be issued after April 1, 2025).
  • Foreign degree holders must provide an AIU equivalence certificate.
  • The application fee is ₹100 for General/OBC/EWS (male) candidates; it’s free for women, SC/ST, and PwBD candidates.

Must Read: How to become a Scientist at ISRO?

How to Join DRDO as Senior Technical Assistant (STA-B)

Here are the 10 simple steps to join DRDO as a Senior Technical Assistant (STA-B) under the DRDO Technical Cadre (DRTC):

  • Be an Indian citizen and make sure your age is between 18 to 28 years (age relaxation is given for reserved categories).
  • You must have a Bachelor’s degree in Science (B.Sc.) or a 3-year Diploma in Engineering or Technology in a relevant subject from a recognized institute.
  • Eligible subjects include Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Electronics, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Library Science, Psychology, and more.
  • Make sure you complete your qualification before the last date mentioned in the official notification.
  • You must be physically and medically fit to perform technical duties.
  • If you’re working in a government or public sector job, you must get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer before applying.
  • The application fee is ₹100 for General/OBC/EWS male candidates, while SC/ST, women, PwBD, and ex-servicemen are exempted from the fee.
  • The selection process includes two exams: Tier I (CBT – General Awareness, Reasoning, English, Science, etc.) and Tier II (Subject-specific test – qualifying only)
  • After clearing exams, you must go through document verification and meet all eligibility requirements.
  • Once selected, you’ll be posted as STA-B with a Level-6 Pay Scale (₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400), along with allowances and other benefits.

How to Join DRDO as Technician ‘A’ under DRDO Technical Cadre

Here are 10 points to help you understand how to join DRDO as Technician ‘A’ under the DRDO Technical Cadre (DRTC):

  • You must be an Indian citizen.
  • Age should typically be between 18 and 28 years, with relaxations for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD) and ex-servicemen.
  • You need a 10th pass with science and maths, plus a 2-year ITI certificate in a relevant trade from an NCVT-affiliated institute.
  • Ensure your ITI certificate is awarded before the last date specified in the DRDO CEPTAM notification.
  • You must be medically and physically fit per DRDO’s medical standards.
  • If employed in a government/PSU body, secure a No Objection Certificate (NOC) before applying.
  • A ₹100 fee is payable by General/OBC/EWS male candidates.
  • Fee waivers are available for SC/ST, women, PwBD, and ex-servicemen.
  • Computer-based exam covering General Awareness, Reasoning, Numerical Ability, Trade-specific subjects, and English comprehension.
  • You must attend a practical exam focused on your ITI trade. This is a qualifying test and part of the final assessment.
  • Qualifying Tier I and Tier II? You’ll undergo document verification (ITI certificate, age proof, category certificate, medical fitness).
  • Once verified, you’ll be appointed as Technician ‘A’, joining DRDO’s Technical Cadre at Level-3 Pay Scale (₹21,700 – ₹69,100) along with allowances.

Must Read: How to become a Space Scientist at ISRO?

DRDO Exam Dates 2025

Here are the 2025 important dates for DRDO CEPTAM (Scientist/STA-B and Technician-A) & Scientist ‘B’ recruitment:

Exam/EventImportant Dates (2025)
Scientist ‘B’ (RAC) Recruitment
Application Start DateJune 14, 2025
Last Date to ApplyJuly 18, 2025 (till 4:00 PM IST)
Admit Card ReleaseTo be announced
Exam DateTo be announced
CEPTAM (STA-B & Technician ‘A’)
Notification Release DateJuly 3, 2025
Application Start DateJuly 3, 2025
Last Date to ApplyJuly 26, 2025
Admit Card Release (Tier-I)Expected in mid to late July 2025
Tier-I CBT Exam DateExpected in early to mid-August 2025
Tier-II Exam Date (Trade/Subject Test)Expected between October to December 2025 (Q4 2025)

Application Process for DRDO 2025

Here are 10 simple steps to apply for DRDO Recruitment 2025 for posts like Scientist ‘B’, Senior Technical Assistant, and Technician ‘A’:

  • Start by visiting the official DRDO website – Go to www.drdo.gov.in or rac.gov.in depending on the post you’re applying for.
  • Select the correct recruitment notification – Choose between Scientist ‘B’ (RAC), STA-B, or Technician ‘A’ (CEPTAM) based on your qualification.
  • Read the eligibility criteria carefully – Check the required qualifications, age limits, GATE or ITI requirements, and other conditions.
  • Note the application dates
  • Scientist ‘B’: Apply between June 14 and July 18, 2025
  • STA-B/Technician ‘A’: Apply between July 3 and July 26, 2025
  • Register online – Create an account using your valid email ID and mobile number to get login credentials.
  • Fill the application form completely – Enter personal, educational, and communication details carefully.
  • Upload required documents – Attach scanned copies of your photo, signature, marksheets, GATE scorecard (if applicable), and caste/category certificates.
  • Pay the application fee online – ₹100 for General/OBC/EWS males. Fee is waived for SC/ST, PwBD, ex-servicemen, and all women.
  • Submit the form and download confirmation – After submitting, save or print the confirmation page or application receipt.
  • Wait for admit card and prepare for exams – DRDO will notify you about CBT, trade tests, or interviews via email and portal updates.

Must Read: How to Become an Astronaut in India?

DRDO Fees 2025

Here are the DRDO Application Fees for 2025, clearly outlined by category and position:

CategoryScientist ‘B’ (RAC)CEPTAM (Technician ‘A’ / STA-B)
General / OBC / EWS (Male)₹100₹100
SC / ST / Women / PwBD / ESMNo feeNo fee

DRDO Scientist Entry Test (SET)

The Scientist Entry Test (SET) is conducted by DRDO’s Recruitment & Assessment Centre (RAC) as a competitive screening exam for candidates applying to the Scientist ‘B’ post in engineering and science disciplines. This computer-based exam is held only when the number of vacancies is large, otherwise candidates are shortlisted directly based on GATE scores + interview. The SET usually takes place in early September, often on the first Sunday, though exact dates are announced with the notification. It consists of two parts: Section A (100 MCQs focused on your technical discipline) and Section B (50 MCQs covering analytical ability, general awareness, and scientific aptitude), with a total duration of 3 hours.

FeatureDetails (2025)
Exam NameScientist Entry Test (SET)
Conducted byDRDO – Recruitment & Assessment Centre (RAC)
Applicable ToScientist ‘B’ candidates in engineering & science × disciplines
Held WhenUsually 1st Sunday of September—only if vacancies are high
Exam Format3 hours, Computer–Based Test
Section A100 MCQs from core subject (e.g., Engineering or Science discipline)
Section B50 MCQs on General Aptitude & Scientific Awareness
Alternative RecruitmentFor smaller vacancy counts: GATE score + interview without SET
Selection PathwaySET → Interview → Document + Medical Verification OR direct GATE → Interview → Docs

How to Apply for the SET Exam 2025

Here’s how to apply for the 2025 DRDO Scientist Entry Test (SET) in clear, simple steps:

  • Step 1: Go to the Recruitment & Assessment Centre (RAC) website: rac.gov.in
  • Step 2: Look for the advertisement number for Scientist ‘B’ recruitment (likely Advt. No. 156) which mentions SET if vacancies are big.
  • Step 3: Sign up as a new user—enter your email, mobile number, and basic details, then check your inbox/SMS for login credentials.
  • Step 4: Once logged in, click “Apply Online” for the Scientist ‘B’ (SET Exam) position.
  • Step 5: Provide accurate personal, educational (degree & GATE score if applicable), and communication information.
  • Step 6: Upload passport-sized photo, signature, and relevant certificates (degree, GATE, category, etc.) as per the format.
  • Step 7: ₹100 for General/OBC/EWS male candidates; SC/ST/women/PwBD/ESM are exempt.
  • Step 8: Submit the form and immediately download or print the confirmation slip—save it for future reference.
  • Step 9: RAC will release the SET admit card online about 7–14 days before the exam, which is typically scheduled in early September.
  • Step 10: Take the 3-hour computer-based SET, then await the interview shortlist (based on SET/GATE + SET) and follow with final document and medical verification.

DRDO SET 2025 Exam Pattern

The DRDO SET is a 3-hour national-level computer-based test conducted by the Recruitment and Assessment Centre (RAC) to recruit Scientist ‘B’ in engineering and science disciplines. The exam is divided into two sections—technical and aptitude. Section A tests your core subject knowledge, while Section B checks your general aptitude and awareness. The pattern includes negative marking, and the total marks are 500. Below is the detailed exam pattern:

FeatureDetails
Exam ModeComputer-Based Test (CBT)
Duration3 hours (180 minutes)
Total Questions150
Section A100 MCQs – Technical (your core subject)
Section B50 MCQs – General aptitude, reasoning, and awareness
Marks for Section A+4 for correct, –1 for wrong answer
Marks for Section B+2 for correct, –0.5 for wrong answer
Total Marks500
LanguageEnglish
Selection After SETInterview + Document Verification + Medical Exam

How to Join DRDO after 12th?

Many students dream of working in DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) after completing their 12th class. While DRDO mostly recruits graduates and postgraduates, there are a few options available for 12th-pass students, mainly through technical and support roles. The most common entry is through the DRDO CEPTAM (Centre for Personnel Talent Management) recruitment for Technician ‘A’ posts under the DRDO Technical Cadre (DRTC).

  • Pass 12th from a recognized board, especially with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
  • Choose a relevant ITI trade (like electrician, fitter, turner, mechanic, etc.) from a recognized institute.
  • When applications open (e.g., CEPTAM-11 in 2025), fill out the online form and submit required documents.
  • You must be 10th pass + ITI certified, and your age should be between 18 to 28 years.
  • The exam includes General Science, General Math, Reasoning, and General Awareness (MCQs).
  • It’s a screening test with 120 questions and no negative marking.
  • A practical test based on your ITI trade (qualifying in nature, no marks counted).
  • After clearing both exams, appear for document checking and a fitness test.
  • Upon final selection, you’ll receive a joining letter and undergo training before starting your job.

How to Join DRDO after Engineering

In order to join DRDO after engineering the minimum eligibility criteria for joining DRDO is BSc in Science or BE or BTech in Engineering/Technology/Computer science and other specialisations like Mechanical Engineering, Electrical, Instrumental, Chemical and Electronics and Communications with first division with NET/GATE qualification OR ME or MTech in Engineering in the first division in both graduate and postgraduate level.

  • Complete your B.E./B.Tech degree and get at least 60% marks in your engineering stream from a recognized university.
  • Qualify in the GATE exam (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) in a relevant discipline—this is a key step.
  • Apply through RAC for Scientist ‘B’, visit https://rac.gov.in when DRDO posts vacancies for Scientist ‘B’ through the Recruitment and Assessment Centre (RAC).
  • Register and apply with your GATE score, educational details, and documents.
  • You’ll be shortlisted either through GATE score or Scientist Entry Test (SET) if conducted.
  • Shortlisted candidates are invited for a technical interview conducted by RAC.
  • Submit original mark sheets, degree, ID, and category certificates during verification.
  • Undergo a standard fitness/medical check as per DRDO norms.
  • Once selected, you will be appointed as Scientist ‘B’ (Group A Gazetted Officer) in a DRDO lab or unit.

Salaries of DRDO Employees

GradeLevel in Pay MatrixInitial Pay
Scientist ‘B’Level 1056,100/-
Scientist ‘C’Level 1167,700/-
Scientist ‘D’Level 1278,800/-
Scientist ‘E’Level 131,23,100/-
Scientist ‘F’Level 13 A1,31,100/-
Scientist ‘G’Level 141,44,200/-
Scientist ‘H’ (Outstanding Scientist)Level 151,82,200/-
Distinguished Scientist (DS)Level 162,05,400/-
Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDOLevel 172,25,000/-

Also Read: DRDO Scholarship Scheme for Girls

How to get an internship at DRDO?

DRDO - How I got Internship at DRDO? | Step by step guide
YouTube: Apna College

Famous DRDO Scientists

Here is a list of famous DRDO scientists who have made remarkable contributions to India’s defence research and technology development:

NameImportant Contribution
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul KalamKnown as the Missile Man of India, he led the development of Agni & Prithvi missiles. Former President of India and former DRDO Chief.
Dr. V.K. SaraswatKey figure in India’s ballistic missile defence and strategic systems; former DRDO Director General.
Dr. G. Satheesh ReddyFormer DRDO Chairman; played a leading role in indigenous missile systems and defence R&D reforms.
Dr. Tessy ThomasProject Director of Agni-IV; first woman to lead a missile project in India; known as Missile Woman of India.
Dr. Avinash ChanderArchitect of the Agni series; contributed significantly to India’s long-range missile capability.
Dr. S. ChristopherKnown for leading the development of radar systems; former DRDO Chief (2015–2018).
Dr. Samir V. KamatCurrent DRDO Chairman (as of 2025); expert in naval materials and structural engineering.
Dr. K. TamilmaniAviation scientist; led projects related to aircraft certification and flight safety.
Dr. K. Sivan (also linked to ISRO)Though mostly associated with ISRO, he collaborated on several DRDO-ISRO dual-use tech programs.

FAQs

What is the qualification for DRDO?

The qualification for DRDO depends on the post. For Scientist ‘B’, candidates must have a B.E./B.Tech or M.Sc. degree with at least 60% marks and a valid GATE score. For Senior Technical Assistant (STA-B), a Diploma or B.Sc. in a relevant field is required. For Technician ‘A’, candidates must have 10th pass with ITI in a specific trade. Higher posts may require M.E./M.Tech or Ph.D., while some admin roles may accept a graduate or 12th pass depending on the post.

Can I join DRDO after 12th?

Yes, you can join DRDO after 12th, mainly through the Technician ‘A’ post under DRDO CEPTAM recruitment, if you also complete an ITI course in a relevant trade like Electrician, Fitter, or Mechanic. After applying online and clearing the Tier-I CBT and Trade Test, you can be selected for technical support roles in DRDO labs. For direct entry after 12th (without ITI), options are very limited and mostly available in admin or support staff roles when notified.

What is the salary of DRDO?

The salary in DRDO varies by post. A Scientist ‘B’ earns a basic pay of ₹56,100 with a gross salary of around ₹80,000–₹1,00,000 per month. A Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) earns ₹35,400 basic with in-hand salary of ₹51,000–₹58,000. A Technician ‘A’ gets ₹19,900 basic, with total in-hand salary around ₹30,000–₹35,000. Salaries include allowances like DA, HRA, transport, and other benefits such as medical, pension (NPS), and leave travel.

What is the highest post in DRDO?

The highest post in DRDO is the Chairman of DRDO, who also serves as the Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. This position holds the topmost authority in DRDO and is responsible for leading all defence research programs, policymaking, and international collaborations. The Chairman is typically a senior scientist with decades of experience and is appointed by the Government of India.

How to join drdo after btech?

To join DRDO after B.Tech, you can apply for the post of Scientist ‘B’ through the RAC portal. You must have a B.E./B.Tech degree with at least 60% marks and a valid GATE score in the relevant engineering stream. DRDO shortlists candidates based on GATE scores or may conduct the Scientist Entry Test (SET) if vacancies are high. After shortlisting, you’ll be called for a personal interview, followed by document and medical verification. Alternatively, B.Tech graduates can also apply for technical posts under DRDO CEPTAM like STA-B.

What are the eligibility criteria to join DRDO?

To join DRDO, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria based on the post. For Scientist ‘B’, you need a B.E./B.Tech or M.Sc. in relevant subjects with at least 60% marks, and a valid GATE score. For Senior Technical Assistant ‘B’ (STA-B), a Diploma or B.Sc. in related fields is required. For Technician ‘A’, candidates must have 10th pass + ITI in a relevant trade. The age limit generally ranges from 18 to 28 years, with relaxations for SC/ST/OBC/Ex-Servicemen/PwBD as per government rules.

What are the main exams to join DRDO?

To join DRDO, the main exams are DRDO RAC (Scientist ‘B’ recruitment) through GATE or the Scientist Entry Test (SET) for engineering and science graduates, and DRDO CEPTAM exams for posts like Senior Technical Assistant (STA-B), Technician ‘A’, and Admin/Allied roles. Candidates are selected based on written tests (CBT), trade tests, and interviews, depending on the post and qualification level.

Can I join DRDO after completing a diploma?

Yes, you can join DRDO after completing a diploma. DRDO regularly recruits diploma holders for the post of Senior Technical Assistant ‘B’ (STA-B) through the CEPTAM recruitment process. To be eligible, you must have a diploma in a relevant engineering or science stream from a recognized institution and meet the age and other criteria. Selection is done through a Computer-Based Test (CBT) followed by document verification. It’s a great opportunity to start a technical career in India’s premier defence research organization.

What are the steps in the DRDO recruitment process?

The DRDO recruitment process typically includes several steps: first, candidates must apply online through the official DRDO or RAC/CEPTAM portal based on the post. Eligible applicants appear for a written exam (like CEPTAM Tier-I for Technician/STA-B or GATE/SET for Scientist ‘B’), followed by a Tier-II (Trade/Skill Test or Interview) depending on the role. Shortlisted candidates then undergo document verification and a medical fitness test. Final selection is based on combined performance and eligibility criteria.

Can I join DRDO without GATE score?

Yes, you can join DRDO without a GATE score for several posts. While GATE is required for Scientist ‘B’ recruitment through RAC, you can still join DRDO through CEPTAM recruitment for roles like Senior Technical Assistant (STA-B), Technician ‘A’, Admin, Allied, and Multi Tasking Staff (MTS) posts. These positions are based on qualification-specific exams conducted by DRDO and do not require a GATE score. So, GATE is not mandatory for all DRDO roles.

Are there opportunities for women to join DRDO?

Yes, there are excellent opportunities for women to join DRDO across various roles, including as scientists, engineers, technical assistants, and administrative staff. Women can apply through DRDO’s CEPTAM and RAC recruitment processes, just like male candidates. Many women scientists, like Dr. Tessy Thomas (Missile Woman of India), have held top positions in DRDO. The organization encourages gender diversity and offers equal pay, maternity benefits, flexible work options, and growth opportunities, making it a supportive environment for women in science and defence research.

Is it possible to join DRDO as a fresher?

Yes, it is definitely possible to join DRDO as a fresher. DRDO regularly recruits fresh graduates through exams like GATE + interview for Scientist ‘B’, and through DRDO CEPTAM for posts like Senior Technical Assistant (STA-B) and Technician ‘A’. Freshers with B.E./B.Tech, B.Sc., Diploma, or ITI qualifications can apply depending on the post. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and clear the selection process, you can join DRDO without any prior work experience.

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24 comments
    1. Hi, Gagan!
      Only these candidates can apply without GATE: Graduate Apprentice BE/ BTech in Mechanical Engineering, Electronics, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, and Biotechnology Selection will be made on the basis of Walk-in-interview.
      For further queries, contact us at 1800 57 2000!

    2. Hi, Gagan!
      Only these candidates can apply without GATE 2021: Graduate Apprentice BE/ BTech in Mechanical Engineering, Electronics, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, and Biotechnology Selection will be made on the basis of Walk-in-interview.
      For further queries, contact us at 1800 57 2000!

    1. Hello Hema,

      You can join DRDO as CSE or Computer Science Engineer. Recruitments for technical jobs for DRDO happens with a small exam which you will have to appear for.

  1. Dear Sir,
    I have completed B.Eng in Aerospace Engineering from Hertfordshire university, UK. I have also attended GATE and GRE exams.
    Kindly guide me to get a suitable job as my parents are old and I am alone bread winner for all.
    I have completed more than 150 internships during the time of covid-19.

    Awaiting for your early response.

    Thanks and regards

    Melwyn Francis Carlo
    +91 9167088078

  2. Hey I’m a bsc biotechnology student , my dream is to work in DRDO as a scientist . what should a bsc biotechnology student be upto to join DRDO?

  3. Hi, can bachelor of computer science student can join DRDO after graduation. if yes then what is the criteria for joining the DRDO.

    1. Hey Manasvi

      B.Sc (CS) graduates can apply for Technical Assistant roles via DRDO CEPTAM. For higher roles, pursuing M.Tech, M.Sc, or MCA is recommended. DRDO also offers JRFs for postgraduates with valid GATE/NET scores. Recruitment details are available on rac.gov.in and drdo.gov.in. Internships are also an option during studies through DRDO labs. On the other hand, if you are interested in taking up higher positions you will have to get an M.Tech, M.Sc, or MCA degree. Postgraduates with with valid GATE/NET scores can also apply for JRF.

      For further information, consult the study abroad experts at Leverage Edu.

    1. Hi, Gagan!
      Only these candidates can apply without GATE: Graduate Apprentice BE/ BTech in Mechanical Engineering, Electronics, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, and Biotechnology Selection will be made on the basis of Walk-in-interview.
      For further queries, contact us at 1800 57 2000!

    2. Hi, Gagan!
      Only these candidates can apply without GATE 2021: Graduate Apprentice BE/ BTech in Mechanical Engineering, Electronics, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, and Biotechnology Selection will be made on the basis of Walk-in-interview.
      For further queries, contact us at 1800 57 2000!