Introduction to DRDO ISSA Apprentice Vacancy 2026
The Institute for Systems Studies and Analyses (ISSA), Delhi, under the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), has announced recruitment for 21 Apprentice vacancies. The drive aims to engage young talent from Computer Science and Mathematics backgrounds for a one-year training program. Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend ranging from ₹10,900 to ₹12,300. The application process is entirely offline/email-based, but candidates must first register on the NATS 2.0 portal.
Key Highlights about DRDO Recruitment 2026
The selection for these apprenticeship positions will be based on merit. Candidates must ensure they have enrolled on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal before applying.
- Organization: Institute for Systems Studies and Analyses (ISSA), DRDO
- Post Name: Graduate & Technician Apprentices
- Total Vacancies: 21 Posts
- Stipend: ₹10,900/- to ₹12,300/- per month
- Job Location: Delhi
- Last Date to Apply: 27 February 2026
- Mode of Application: Email (Offline Form)
Vacancy Breakdown for DRDO ISSA Recruitment 2026
The notification lists vacancies for Computer Science and Mathematics disciplines. Here is the post-wise distribution:
| Apprentice Category | Discipline/Subject | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentice | Computer Science & Engineering | 15 |
| Graduate Apprentice | Mathematics | 01 |
| Technician Apprentice | Computer Science | 05 |
| Total | 21 |
(Note: The vacancy for Mathematics requires an M.Sc degree and offers a stipend of ₹12,300, classifying it effectively under the Graduate level tier).
Eligibility Criteria for DRDO Apprentice 2026
Candidates must fulfill the specific educational qualifications and passing year criteria as of the application date.
Educational Qualification
- Graduate Apprentice (Computer Science & Engg):
- B.E / B.Tech (Full Time/Regular) in Computer Science & Engineering with First Division from a recognized University/Institute.
- Graduate Apprentice (Mathematics):
- M.Sc (Full Time/Regular) in Mathematics with First Division from a recognized University/Institute.
- Technician Apprentice (Computer Science):
- Diploma (Full Time/Regular) in Computer Science from a recognized Institute.
Passing Year & Experience
- Candidates must have passed their qualifying examination in the years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025.
- Candidates with prior apprenticeship training or more than one year of experience are not eligible.
Salary and Benefits
DRDO ISSA offers a fixed monthly stipend to apprentices as per government norms. This financial support helps candidates focus on their training and skill development.
- Graduate Apprentices: ₹12,300/- per month.
- (Applicable for B.E/B.Tech and M.Sc holders).
- Technician Apprentices: ₹10,900/- per month.
- (Applicable for Diploma holders).
- Training Period: The apprenticeship will be for a duration of 12 months (1 year).
- Benefits: This training provides hands-on experience in a premier defence research environment, a certificate of proficiency upon completion, and valuable industry exposure.
Selection Process Explained
The selection procedure for DRDO ISSA Apprentice 2026 is straightforward and merit-based.
- Shortlisting based on Marks: A board constituted by the Director, ISSA will scrutinize applications and shortlist candidates based on the percentage of marks obtained in the essential qualifying exam (Degree/Diploma/M.Sc).
- Merit List: The final merit list will be prepared category-wise (General/SC/ST/OBC/PwD).
- Offer Letter: Selected candidates will be informed exclusively via email. There is no written exam or interview mentioned in the notification.
How to Apply Online: Step-by-Step Guide
The application process involves two main stages: NATS Registration and Email Submission.
- NATS Enrollment:
- Visit the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal: nats.education.gov.in.
- Register and enroll yourself to generate a valid Enrollment Number. (Mandatory).
- Download Application Form:
- Download the Notification and Application Form PDF from the link below.
- Take a printout of the Application Form (page 4 of the PDF).
- Fill the Form:
- Fill in all details manually in Block Letters.
- Paste a recent passport-size photograph.
- Prepare PDF:
- Scan the filled application form along with self-attested copies of required documents (10th/12th Marksheets, Degree/Diploma Marksheets, Caste Certificate, etc.).
- Merge them into a single PDF file.
- Send via Email:
- Email the single PDF file to hrd.issa@gov.in.
- Ensure the subject line clearly mentions the application for the specific post.
- Note: Do not send hard copies by post.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 06 February 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 06 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Application (Email) | 27 February 2026 |
Application Fees
There is no application fee for any category for this recruitment.
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | Nil |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Women | Nil |
Essential Links
| Important Link | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification & Form PDF | Download Notification & Form |
| NATS Registration (Mandatory) | Register Online |
| Official Website | Visit DRDO Website |
| Join WhatsApp Channel | Join Here |
| Join Telegram Channel | Join Here |
| Delhi Govt Jobs Telegram | Join Delhi Jobs Channel |
The DRDO ISSA Apprentice Recruitment 2026 offers a unique platform for fresh engineering and science graduates to start their careers with the Ministry of Defence. With no written exam and no application fee, this merit-based selection is an excellent opportunity to gain specialized skills. Make sure to complete your NATS registration and email your application before 27 February 2026 to be considered for these 21 prestigious slots.