Many defence aspirants dream of wearing the uniform but feel worried about tough written exams like NDA or CDS. If you are an NCC cadet with holding a ‘C’ Certificate, then NCC Special Entry Scheme can be one of the best opportunities for you to become an Army Officer directly through SSB Interview.
In this article, we will understand everything about NCC Special Entry Scheme 124 commencing on October 2026 in a very simple and practical way so that aspirants can easily plan their preparation accordingly.
What is NCC Special Entry Scheme?
NCC Special Entry Scheme is a special officer entry for NCC cadets who have completed their NCC training and achieved the ‘C’ Certificate. The biggest advantage of this entry is that there is no written exam. Selection mainly depends on your personality, leadership qualities and performance in the SSB Interview.
This entry recognises the discipline and military exposure that NCC cadets already gain during their training.
Important Details About NCC Special Entry Scheme 124
NCC Special Entry 124 is a Short Service Commission entry for both male and female candidates. Selected candidates are provided training at Officers Training Academy, Chennai and later they commissioned as Lieutenants in the Army.
The all process includes online submit of application, shortlisting based on academic and NCC record, SSB Interview, medical examination and final merit list.
Important Dates for NCC Special Entry Scheme 124
| Entry Name | 124th NCC Special Entry Scheme |
| Online starting Submit of Application (For Men) | 12th February 2026 to 16th March 2026 |
| Online starting Submit of Application (For Women) | 13th February 2026 to 16th March 2026 |
| Course Commencement wef | Oct 2026 |
| Official Website | www.joinindianarmy.nic.in |
Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?
Educational Qualification
- Graduation degree from a recognised university.
- Minimum around 50% marks.
- Final year students can also apply if they meet eligibility later.
Age Limit
- Generally between 19 to 25 years according to course requirements as on 01 Jul 2026
NCC Requirement
- Must have NCC ‘C’ Certificate.
- Minimum ‘B’ Grade required.
- Proper participation in NCC activities during academic years.
Nationality
- Candidate must be an Indian citizen.
Selection Process – Step by Step
The selection procedure is personality based and officer oriented.
- Online Submit of Application
Students fill the application form on the Army recruitment website. - Shortlisting
Candidates are shortlisted based on academic marks and NCC performance. - SSB Interview
This is the most important stage where leadership, confidence, communication skill and officer-like qualities are tested. - Medical Examination
Candidates must be medically fit as per Army standards. - Final Merit List
Final selection depends mainly on SSB performance and medical fitness.
You can also read : A Daughter’s Triumph : The Journey of a Milk Selling Girl to Indian Army Officer Through NCC Spl Entry Scheme
Training Details For NCC Special Entry Scheme 124
Selected candidates gets approximately 49 weeks of rigorous training at OTA Chennai. The training includes:
- Physical fitness and endurance
- Leadership development
- Tactical and field training
- Weapon handling
- Discipline and team building
After successful training, candidates are commissioned as Army Officers.
Salary, Pay Scale & Facilities
During training, candidates receive a monthly stipend of Rs 56,100/-pm. After commissioning including these facilities :-
- Starting pay is around Level 10 salary structure.
- Military Service Pay and allowances are included.
- Free medical facilities and accommodation.
- Leave benefits and pension-related advantages.
- Canteen and other defence facilities.
Application Fees
Usually there is no application fee for NCC Special Entry Scheme, making it accessible for students from all backgrounds.
Vacancies for NCC Special Entry Scheme 124
Vacancies are generally divided into:
| Category | General Cat | Wards Of Battle Casualties | Total Vacancies |
| NCC Men | 63 | 07 | 70 |
| NCC Women | 05 | 01 | 06 |
Final Thoughts for Aspirants
NCC Special Entry is a best chance for NCC cadets who want to become Army Officers without facing a written examination. However, the SSB Interview is very very important, so aspirants should focus on personality development, physical fitness and communication skills.
If you are disciplined, confident and passionate about serving the nation, this entry can be your direct path to wearing the officer’s uniform. So chase your dream with full of confidence.
