ACC (Army Cadet College), Dehradun

Updated On: October 4, 2024 8:34 pm

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1. History and Purpose

Established: The roots of the ACC go back to World War II when it was known as the Kitchener College in Nowgong in 1929. Later, it was shifted to Dehradun in 1977, integrating into the Indian Military Academy.
Purpose: ACC provides a pathway for soldiers (other ranks) from the three services to be trained as officers. The aim is to utilize the experience and knowledge of the enrolled soldiers, grooming them into future military leaders.
Selection Criteria: Selection to ACC is highly competitive, based on entrance exams, service records, and recommendations.

Duration: The training at ACC lasts for three years, after which cadets are integrated into the Indian Military Academy for one year of pre-commissioning training. This brings the total training period to four years.
Curriculum: The curriculum at ACC is rigorous and includes a combination of:
- Academics: A bachelor’s degree program in science or humanities is offered. The courses are affiliated with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).
- Military Training: Focused on physical endurance, combat training, leadership, and tactics.
- Character Development: The cadets are trained to develop leadership qualities, discipline, and ethical behaviour.

Eligibility: The ACC accepts soldiers from the ranks of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Eligibility depends on service experience, performance in entrance exams, and personal interviews.
Age : 20 to 27 years , minimum service two years can apply
Marital Status : Unmarried / Married
Education Qualification : 10+2 Pattern Class 12th pass or Equivalent. Should have qualified ACC written test
Entrance Exam: The ACC entrance exam is conducted in four parts:
1. General Mental Ability Test (GMAT): Evaluates the reasoning and mental aptitude of the candidate.
2. Current and General Awareness Test: Covers current affairs, general knowledge, and awareness.
3. Interactive Communicative English: Assesses proficiency in the English language.
4. Academic Content Test: Subject-based test relevant to the curriculum.
Services Selection Board (SSB): After clearing the written exam, shortlisted candidates must pass the SSB interview, which assesses their suitability for officer roles in terms of leadership, psychological readiness, and physical fitness.
Tentative Date of SSB : Sep to Nov for Jan Course Mar to May for Jul Course

Cadets at ACC undergo intense physical and academic training. Their day begins early with physical conditioning exercises and continues with academic classes. Evening drills, tactical exercises, and military science education are integral parts of the routine.
ACC fosters a culture of discipline, camaraderie, and excellence, focusing on preparing cadets for the challenges of leading soldiers in the field.

Once cadets successfully complete their three-year tenure at ACC, they move to the Indian Military Academy (IMA) for one year of pre-commission training.
Upon successful completion of training at IMA, they are commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army and posted to different units based on requirements.

ACC-trained officers have long and rewarding careers in the Indian Army. The grooming they receive as enlisted personnel, combined with formal officer training, gives them a unique edge in leadership roles. Many ACC graduates go on to serve in senior positions in the armed forces.

Some of the ACC alumni have gone on to hold prestigious positions in the Indian Army, contributing to its growth and modernization.

Soldiers who are interested in joining ACC should keep an eye on the official notifications issued by their respective service branches, which announce the opening of applications for ACC entry.
Interested candidates should prepare for the entrance exams and SSB interviews by brushing up on general knowledge, English proficiency, and logical reasoning.