If you have a dream to serve the nation and wear the uniform, there is big news for you. The Indian Army has officially started the recruitment process for the 2026-27 cycle. The wait is finally over for lakhs of young aspirants across India.
The Indian Army has opened the registration window for the Agniveer Recruitment 2026 starting from February 3, 2026. This is the biggest opportunity of the year for 10th and 12th-pass candidates to join the army under the Agnipath Scheme.
This article covers everything you need to know: the new notification details, eligibility criteria, the selection process, and exactly how to apply online.
Latest Update: Agniveer 2026 Applications Are Live
The Indian Army has updated its official website (joinindianarmy.nic.in) with the latest schedule. The online registration for the Common Entrance Exam (CEE) began on February 3, 2026, and will remain open until February 28, 2026.
Key Highlights of this Recruitment:
- Recruitment Type: Agniveer (General Duty, Technical, Clerk/Store Keeper, Tradesman) and Women Military Police.
- Selection Method: First, an Online Computer-Based Written Exam, followed by a Physical Rally.
- Application Mode: Online only.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
Before you fill out the form, you must check if you fit the age and education limits. The Indian Army is very strict about these rules.
Read more: BPSC Exam Calendar 2026 Out
1. Age Limit
For all Agniveer categories (GD, Technical, Clerk, Tradesman), the age limit is 17 ½ to 21 years.
- Born Between: Candidates must be born between 01 October 2005 and 01 April 2009 (Check official notification for exact date cut-offs).
2. Education Qualification
| Post Name | Education Required |
| Agniveer General Duty (GD) | Class 10th Pass with 45% marks in total and 33% in each subject. |
| Agniveer Technical | Class 12th Pass (Science with PCM) with 50% marks in total and 40% in each subject. |
| Agniveer Clerk / Store Keeper | Class 12th Pass (Any Stream) with 60% marks in total and 50% in each subject. English is mandatory. |
| Agniveer Tradesman | Class 10th Simple Pass OR Class 8th Simple Pass (for Housekeeper/Mess Keeper). No aggregate percentage required, but 33% in each subject is a must. |
| Women Military Police | Class 10th Pass with 45% marks in aggregate. |
Important Dates for 2026 Recruitment
- Notification Release: First week of February 2026
- Online Application Starts: 03 February 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 28 February 2026
- Online Exam (CEE) Date: Likely in April or May 2026 (Official dates to be announced soon)
Selection Process: What Happens After You Apply?
The Indian Army has changed the old recruitment style. Now, the process happens in two main phases:
Phase 1: Online Common Entrance Exam (CEE)
- You will first have to clear a computer-based written test at an exam center.
- Admit cards will be issued only to registered candidates.
Phase 2: Recruitment Rally
- Only those who pass the online exam will be called for the Physical Fitness Test (PFT).
- Running: 1.6 km run (Time limits vary for Group 1 and Group 2).
- Other Tests: Beam (Pull-ups), 9-feet Ditch, and Zig-Zag Balance.
- Medical Test: Final medical checkup at the rally site.
How to Apply Online at joinindianarmy.nic.in
Follow these simple steps to submit your application correctly.
- Visit Official Website: Go to joinindianarmy.nic.in.
- Captcha Entry: Enter the captcha code to enter the website.
- Check Eligibility: Click on the “Agnipath” tab and check your eligibility.
- Registration: If you are new, click on “Registration” and fill in your Aadhaar or Matriculation certificate details.
- Login: Login with your Username (Email ID) and Password.
- Fill Application: Complete your personal details and education marks carefully.
- Upload Documents: Upload your photo (10-20 KB) and signature (5-10 KB).
- Pay Fee: Pay the exam fee (approx. Rs. 250) online.
- Submit: Submit the form and take two printouts of the final receipt.
Other Officer Entries (For Graduates)
Apart from Agniveer, the Indian Army is also inviting applications for officer-level posts:
- SSC Tech (Women): Applications for the 67th Course are open from Jan 6 to Feb 4, 2026. This is for unmarried female engineering graduates.
- NCC Special Entry: Notifications for NCC ‘C’ certificate holders usually release around this time. Keep checking the “Officer Selection” tab on the website.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. When does the Indian Army 2026 registration start?
The online registration for Agniveer 2026 started on February 3, 2026.
Q2. Is there any change in the age limit for Agniveer?
No, the age limit remains 17.5 to 21 years for all Agniveer posts.
Q3. Can I apply for the Army if I have passed Class 8?
Yes, you can apply for the Agniveer Tradesman (8th Pass) category for roles like House Keeper and Mess Keeper.
Q4. Is the written exam conducted before the physical test?
Yes. Since last year, the Online Common Entrance Exam (CEE) is conducted before the physical running test.
Q5. What is the website to apply for the Indian Army?
The only official website is www.joinindianarmy.nic.in. Do not trust any other private websites for application forms.
Q6. Can girls apply for the Indian Army Agniveer scheme?
Yes, girls can apply for the Agniveer General Duty (Women Military Police) post.