Indian Navy Cadet Entry Scheme 2026: 44 Officer Vacancies Open – Online Applications Invited for Class 12th Candidates
The Indian Navy is calling on ambitious unmarried male and female candidates to step into a thrilling career as commissioned officers via the prestigious Cadet Entry Scheme (Permanent Commission) for the July 2026 course. This golden gateway allows talented youth to launch their naval journey right after Class 12th, blending world-class engineering education with leadership training on the high seas.
Successful aspirants will embark on a fully sponsored four-year engineering degree program at the renowned Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala, Kerala. On graduation, they will earn a Permanent Commission and serve in dynamic roles within the Executive and Technical Branches, contributing to India’s maritime strength while enjoying adventure, respect, and unparalleled professional growth.
Indian Navy Cadet Entry Scheme 2026: Snapshot
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Body | Indian Navy |
| Entry Program | Cadet Entry Scheme (Permanent Commission) |
| Course Start Date | July 2026 |
| Total Positions | 44 |
| Commission Granted | Permanent Commission |
| Training Venue | Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala |
| Application Method | Online |
| Application Online Period Start | 03 January 2026 |
| Application Online Period End | 19 January 2026 |
Essential Qualifications for Indian Navy 2026
Applicants must fully satisfy the academic, age, and national entrance test requirements to qualify for consideration in the selection process.
Academic Requirements
- Completed Senior Secondary (Class 12th pattern) or equivalent examination from a recognized educational board.
- Secured minimum 70% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) combined.
- Obtained at least 50% marks in English (in either Class 10th or Class 12th).
National Entrance Exam Mandate
- Compulsory appearance in JEE (Main) 2025 examination for engineering admissions.
- Initial shortlisting for Service Selection Board (SSB) interviews will depend on the All India Common Rank List (CRL) 2025 released by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
Age Criteria
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth Range | Born between 02 January 2007 and 01 July 2009 (both dates inclusive) |
| Marital Status | Only unmarried candidates are eligible |
Indian Navy Cadet Entry Scheme 2026: Vacancy Details
The positions are available in the Executive and Technical Branches. Final allocation to Engineering or Electrical streams will happen during training at the Indian Naval Academy.
| Branch | Total Vacancies | Eligible Gender |
|---|---|---|
| Executive & Technical Branch | 44 | Men and Women |
Additional Notes:
- These numbers are provisional and may be adjusted as needed.
- Up to 7 vacancies are set aside for women candidates.

Application Fee Details
| There is no fee required to submit an application for this Cadet Entry Scheme. All qualified candidates can complete the online process completely free of charge |
Mode of Selection of a Naval Officer
The path to joining the Indian Navy through the Cadet Entry Scheme is clear, fair, and rewarding. Your performance in JEE (Main) 2025 opens the door, followed by a thorough assessment of your potential as a leader.
Here’s the step-by-step process explained in easy language:
- Initial Shortlisting The Navy will set a minimum rank cut-off based on the JEE (Main) 2025 All India Common Rank List (CRL). Only top performers will receive an invitation via email or SMS for the next stage.
- Service Selection Board (SSB) Interview Selected candidates will attend the SSB at centres in Bangalore, Bhopal, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam (starting from March 2026). The SSB lasts several days and has two main stages:
- Stage I: Intelligence tests, picture story writing, and group discussion (one-day screening).
- Stage II: Psychological tests, group tasks, personal interview, and outdoor activities (to assess leadership, teamwork, and confidence).
- Medical Check-up Candidates recommended by the SSB will go through a detailed medical examination to ensure they meet the Navy’s high fitness standards.
- Final Merit List The Navy prepares the final list based purely on SSB performance. All selected candidates must clear medical fitness and background verification to secure their spot.
This merit-based process ensures the best and most capable young talent gets the chance to serve the nation with pride. Start preparing early – strong JEE ranks and confidence in SSB will take you closer to your dream of wearing the Navy uniform!
Recruitment Timeline
- Online Application Starts: 03 January 2026
- Last Date to Apply Online: 19 January 2026
- SSB Interviews Begin: From March 2026 onwards
- Course State Period: July 2026
Helpful Resources of Indian Navy Recruitment
| Download Official Notification (PDF) |
| Visit Official Website |
| Online Apply Portal |
| Join WhatsApp Channel |
| Join Telegram Group |
| Get More Job Details |
Steps to Submit Online Application Easily
Applying for this prestigious naval officer program is simple and fully online. Follow these clear steps to complete your submission successfully:
- Create an Account Go to the official site. Look for the registration option and sign up with a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Log In to Your Account Use your new login details (email and password) to access the dashboard.
- Find the Right Opportunity Navigate to the “Current Opportunities” or “Apply Now” section. Select the Cadet Entry Scheme for the July 2026 course.
- Provide Your Information Carefully enter personal details, academic records, and your JEE (Main) 2025 Common Rank List (CRL) details.
- Upload Required Files Scan and attach clear copies of:
- Recent passport-size photo
- Your signature
- Class 10th and 12th mark sheets/certificates
- JEE (Main) 2025 scorecard
- Final Check and Submit Review everything for accuracy – no edits are possible after submission. Click submit to finish.
- Save a Copy Download and print the completed form. Keep it safe for reference and to bring during the SSB stage.
Apply early within the window (03 to 19 January 2026) to avoid any issues.