The Institute for Systems Studies and Analyses (ISSA), under the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, is inviting applications for recruitment of 21 apprentices for one year training under the Apprentices Act, 1961. This is a prestigious opportunity for recent B.Tech, M.Sc, and Diploma graduates interested in gaining hands-on training in Computer Science and Mathematics at a premier defence research organization. Eligible candidates must enroll on the NATS portal before applying.
DRDO ISSA Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Organization | Institute for Systems Studies and Analyses (ISSA), DRDO |
| Parent Organization | Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence |
| Positions | Apprentices (Graduate & Technician) |
| Total Number of Posts | 21 |
| Training Duration | 12 months (as per Apprentices Act, 1961) |
| Location | ISSA, DRDO, Civil Lines, Delhi 110054 |
| Application Last Date | 27-02-2026 (21 days from advertisement date) |
| Application Method | Email in PDF format |
| Official Website | www.drdo.gov.in |
| Advertisement No. | ISSA/HRD/Apprentice/2026/01 |
Vacancy Details - All Positions
| S.No. | Apprentice Category | Subject/Discipline | Number of Posts | Monthly Stipend | Essential Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Graduate Apprentice | Computer Science & Engineering | 15 | Rs. 12,300/- | B.E/B.Tech (First Division) |
| 2 | Graduate Apprentice | Mathematics | 1 | Rs. 12,300/- | M.Sc. (First Division) |
| 3 | Technician Apprentice (Diploma) | Computer Science | 5 | Rs. 10,900/- | Diploma (Computer Science) |
| TOTAL | 21 | Apprenticeship Positions | |||
Important Note:
The number of positions mentioned above is indicative and may be increased or decreased at the absolute discretion of ISSA.
Eligibility Criteria
For Graduate Apprentice - Computer Science & Engineering (15 Posts)
Essential Qualifications:
- B.E. (Bachelor of Engineering) or B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) in Computer Science & Engineering
- Full-time regular course (not part-time or distance education)
- First Division in final examination (typically 60% aggregate marks or more)
- From a recognized Indian University or Institute (UGC/AICTE approved)
- Must have passed in years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025
For Graduate Apprentice - Mathematics (1 Post)
Essential Qualifications:
- M.Sc. (Master of Science) in Mathematics
- Full-time regular course (not part-time or distance education)
- First Division in final examination (typically 60% aggregate marks or more)
- From a recognized Indian University or Institute (UGC approved)
- Must have passed in years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025
For Technician Apprentice - Computer Science (5 Posts)
Essential Qualifications:
- Diploma in Computer Science (3-year full-time course)
- Full-time regular course (not part-time or distance education)
- From a recognized Institute (State Government or Central Government)
- Must have passed in years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025
General Eligibility Requirements (All Categories)
- NATS Enrollment: MANDATORY - Must enroll on National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal (https://nats.education.gov.in) before applying
- Fresh Apprentices: Must not have completed or be currently undergoing any apprenticeship under Apprentices Act, 1961
- No Prior Experience: Should not have one year of prior apprenticeship experience
- Regular Examination: Must have passed qualifying examination as a regular candidate (not part-time/distance)
- Graduation Year: Must have passed qualifying exam in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025
- Category Certificate: Candidates claiming SC/ST/OBC/PwD must provide valid certificate from competent authority as per government norms
- Reservation: SC/ST/OBC reservation will be followed as per Apprentices Act, 1961
Stipend (Monthly Salary)
| Category | Monthly Stipend | Annual Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentice (B.E/B.Tech/M.Sc.) | Rs. 12,300/- | Rs. 1,47,600/- |
| Technician Apprentice (Diploma) | Rs. 10,900/- | Rs. 1,30,800/- |
Important Notes on Stipend:
- Stipend is for 12 months of training period
- No boarding or lodging expenses are admissible
- No additional allowances beyond stipend
- Payment made monthly to eligible apprentices
Training Details
Duration of Training:
- Total Duration: 12 months
- Regulations: As per Apprentices Act, 1961 (amended in 1961, 1973, 2014, 2025)
- Completion Certificate: Will be issued after 12 months from date of selection
- Starting Date: As per ISSA notification (typically within 2-3 months of selection)
Facilities & Benefits:
- Training Location: ISSA, DRDO, Civil Lines, Delhi 110054
- Work Environment: Premier defence research organization with modern facilities
- Skill Development: Hands-on training in Computer Science and Mathematics
- Certificate: Completion certificate upon successful completion of 12 months
Non-Admissible:
- No boarding or lodging facilities provided
- No accommodation expenses
- No food or meal allowance
- No transport/travel allowance
Important Conditions
NATS Enrollment (Mandatory):
- Candidates MUST enroll on NATS portal (https://nats.education.gov.in) before applying
- Non-registered candidates' applications will be REJECTED
- Applications with invalid enrollment numbers will be REJECTED
- NATS enrollment number must be included in application form
No Employment Guarantee:
- Upon completion of apprenticeship, ISSA/DRDO has NO obligation to offer employment
- Apprentices CANNOT claim right to employment based on apprenticeship completion
- This is a training program, not a job offer
Eligibility Verification:
- False or incorrect information will result in cancellation/termination of apprenticeship
- Incomplete/incorrect/misleading documents will lead to application rejection
- No appeal for reconsideration will be entertained for rejected applications
Previous Apprentices NOT Eligible:
- Candidates who have already completed apprenticeship are NOT eligible
- Candidates currently undergoing apprenticeship are NOT eligible
- Those with 1+ year apprenticeship experience are NOT eligible
- Only fresh candidates can apply
Selection Process
Selection Procedure:
- Merit-Based Selection: Based on marks obtained in qualifying examination
- Category-wise Merit List: Separate merit lists prepared for General/SC/ST/OBC/PwD categories
- Board Evaluation: Board constituted by Director ISSA will review applications
- Shortlisting: Candidates will be shortlisted as per selection criteria and number of vacancies
- Offer Letter: Selected candidates will receive offer letter via email only
- No Interview: Selection based on academic performance, no interview scheduled
Selection Criteria:
- Performance in qualifying examination (B.Tech/M.Sc./Diploma)
- Achievement of First Division/equivalent marks
- Fulfillment of all eligibility criteria
- Validity of NATS enrollment
- Accuracy of application documents
Reservation Policy:
- SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates eligible for reservation as per Apprentices Act, 1961
- Separate category merit lists maintained
- Reserved positions filled first from respective category candidates
- Unfilled reserved positions may be filled from general category
Important Dates
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advertisement Date | 06-02-2026 | Published on DRDO website |
| Application Submission Starts | 06-02-2026 | From the date of advertisement |
| Last Date for Application Submission | 27-02-2026 | 21 days from advertisement date |
| Application Format | Anytime before deadline | Email in PDF format only |
| Selection & Offer Letter | After deadline (within 2-3 weeks) | Via email to selected candidates |
| Training Commencement | To be announced | Typically within 2-3 months |
How to Apply
Step 1: NATS Enrollment (Before Applying)
- Visit NATS portal: https://nats.education.gov.in
- Click on "Apprenticeship Opportunities" or "Register for Apprenticeship"
- Fill basic details (name, education, contact information)
- Complete registration and obtain NATS Enrollment Number
- KEEP THIS NUMBER HANDY - You need it for application
Step 2: Download Application Form
- Visit DRDO website: https://www.drdo.gov.in
- Search for "ISSA Apprenticeship 2026" or Advertisement No. ISSA/HRD/Apprentice/2026/01
- Download the official application form
- Alternatively, contact ISSA at [email protected] for application form
Step 3: Fill Application Form
Fill all required details in the application form:
- Full name (as per certificate)
- Apprenticeship category (Graduate/Technician)
- Subject/Branch (Computer Science, Mathematics, etc.)
- NATS Enrollment Number (MANDATORY)
- Aadhaar number
- Father's name
- Date of birth
- Contact email and phone number
- Complete correspondence address
- Complete permanent address
- Educational qualification details (10th, 12th, Diploma/B.Tech/M.Sc.)
- Category (UR/SC/ST/OBC/PwD)
- Affix recent passport-size photograph
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents (Self-Attested)
- Birth Certificate: 10th standard/Matriculation certificate (as proof of date of birth)
- 10th Pass Certificate: Mark sheet and pass certificate
- 12th Pass Certificate: Mark sheet and pass certificate (if applicable)
- Diploma Mark Sheet: For Technician Apprentice applicants
- B.Tech/M.Sc. Mark Sheet: For Graduate Apprentice applicants (all semesters/years)
- B.Tech/M.Sc. Pass Certificate: Final degree certificate
- Category Certificate: SC/ST/OBC/PwD certificate from competent authority (if applicable)
- Recent Passport Size Photograph: Scanned copy
Important Notes on Documents:
- All documents must be self-attested (photocopies with signature of candidate)
- Scan all documents in PDF format (clear, legible copies)
- Total file size should be manageable for email submission
- For CGPA: If percentage not mentioned, calculate as: Percentage = CGPA × 9.5
Step 5: Submit Application via Email
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Subject Line: "Application for Apprenticeship - ISSA/HRD/Apprentice/2026/01 - [Your Name]"
- Format: Scanned application + documents in single PDF or multiple attachments
- Deadline: 27-02-2026 (email must be received by 5:00 PM IST)
Important Application Instructions:
- Email is the ONLY mode of application - No other format accepted
- Include valid email ID and contact phone number in application
- All correspondence will be done through email only
- Keep a copy of submitted application for reference
- No acknowledgement email will be sent - submission via email means application received
- Applications received after deadline will NOT be considered
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the qualification required for Graduate Apprentice - Computer Science?
A: B.E. or B.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering with First Division (typically 60% or above) from a recognized Indian University, passed in 2021-2025.
Q: Is M.Tech eligible for Computer Science Graduate Apprentice?
A: The notification specifically mentions B.E/B.Tech. M.Tech graduates may not be eligible. Check with ISSA for clarification at 011-23882128.
Q: What is "First Division"? What if my percentage is lower?
A: First Division typically means 60% aggregate or above. Lower percentage candidates may not meet eligibility. Check requirements carefully before applying.
Q: Is NATS enrollment mandatory before applying?
A: Yes, NATS enrollment is MANDATORY. Applications without valid NATS enrollment number will be REJECTED.
Q: How do I get NATS enrollment number?
A: Visit https://nats.education.gov.in, register as an apprentice candidate, and obtain your enrollment number. This is free and takes 10-15 minutes.
Q: How much is the stipend?
A: Graduate Apprentices (B.Tech/M.Sc): Rs. 12,300/- per month. Technician Apprentices (Diploma): Rs. 10,900/- per month.
Q: Is boarding/lodging provided?
A: No, boarding or lodging expenses are NOT admissible. Candidates must arrange their own accommodation in Delhi.
Q: What is the duration of training?
A: 12 months from date of selection, as per Apprentices Act, 1961.
Q: Will I get a job after apprenticeship completion?
A: No, there is NO guarantee of employment. Upon completion, ISSA/DRDO has no obligation to offer a regular job. This is purely a training program.
Q: Can I apply if I've already done an apprenticeship elsewhere?
A: No, candidates who have already completed apprenticeship or are currently undergoing it are NOT eligible.
Q: What if my documents are incomplete?
A: Incomplete/incorrect/misleading documents will lead to AUTOMATIC REJECTION. There is no chance for reconsideration.
Q: How will I know if I'm selected?
A: Selected candidates will receive offer letter via email only. No other notification will be sent.
Q: Are SC/ST/OBC candidates eligible?
A: Yes, SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates are eligible and have reservation as per Apprentices Act, 1961.
Q: Can I apply through email with the application form?
A: Yes, email is the ONLY accepted mode. Send scanned application + documents in PDF format to [email protected].
Q: For which year's pass-outs is this recruitment?
A: Candidates must have passed in years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025.
Contact Information
| For Applications | [email protected] |
| Phone for Clarifications | 011-23882128 |
| ISSA Address | Institute for Systems Studies and Analyses (ISSA), DRDO, Civil Lines, Delhi 110054 |
| NATS Portal | https://nats.education.gov.in |
| DRDO Website | https://www.drdo.gov.in |
Important Links
| DRDO Official Website | Click here |
| Official Advertisement (PDF) | Click here |
| NATS Enrollment Portal | Click here |
| Application Form Download | DRDO Website |
| ISSA (DRDO) Portal | Click here |