Research Centre Imarat (RCI), DRDO, Hyderabad has released the notification for 195 Apprentice posts for the 2027 training batch under the Apprentices Act, 1961. Online applications are invited from eligible Graduate, Diploma, and ITI candidates through the respective apprenticeship portals. The last date to apply is 01 November 2026 as listed on the DRDO vacancy page.
This apprenticeship program offers an excellent opportunity for engineering graduates, diploma holders, and ITI pass-outs to receive one year of practical training in a premier defence research laboratory. Selected candidates will gain valuable industry exposure in the field of defence technology and missile systems while training under experienced professionals at DRDO.
This article covers DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 overview, vacancy details, eligibility criteria, stipend details, application fee, selection process, how to apply online, important dates, important links, and final words.
DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Organization | Research Centre Imarat (RCI), DRDO |
| Advertisement No. | RCI/HRD/Apprenticeship/Advt/2027 |
| Post Name | Graduate, Diploma & ITI Apprentice |
| Total Vacancies | 195 |
| Training Period | One Year |
| Minimum Marks | 70% or CGPA 7.5 |
| Job Location | Hyderabad, Telangana |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Start Date | 01 October 2026 |
| Application Last Date | 01 November 2026 |
| Official Website | drdo.gov.in |
DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details
| Apprenticeship Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentice | 50 |
| Technician Apprentice (Diploma) | 30 |
| Trade Apprentice (ITI) | 115 |
| Total | 195 |
DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Qualification: Graduate Apprentices must possess B.E./B.Tech, Technician Apprentices must possess a Diploma, and Trade Apprentices must hold an ITI certificate in the relevant trade.
- Minimum Marks: Candidates must have secured at least 70% marks or CGPA 7.5 in the qualifying examination.
- Passing Year: Only candidates who passed during 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026 are eligible.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be at least 18 years old as on 01 September 2026.
- Other Conditions: Candidates with higher qualifications, previous apprenticeship training, or more than one year of work experience are not eligible.
Stipend Details
- Selected apprentices will receive stipend as per Government of India norms.
- Stipend will be paid according to the Gazette notification dated 03 September 2025.
- Graduate and Diploma apprentices will receive 50% stipend support through the BOAT DBT scheme.
- An Aadhaar-linked bank account is mandatory for receiving stipend payments.
DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Application Fee
- General Candidates: No application fee mentioned in the notification.
- OBC Candidates: No application fee mentioned in the notification.
- SC/ST/PwBD Candidates: No application fee mentioned in the notification.
- All Applicants: Candidates can apply without payment of any prescribed fee.
DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Selection Process
- Shortlisting: Candidates will be shortlisted based on academic merit and interview requirements, if applicable.
- Document Verification: Original documents and self-attested certificates will be checked before final engagement.
- Apprenticeship Contract: Selected candidates must complete the apprenticeship contract process through the concerned portal.
- Police Verification: A valid police verification certificate is required before joining the training program.
- Final Selection: Appointment will be confirmed after successful completion of all verification formalities.
How to Apply Online for DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026
Follow the steps below to apply online for DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026:
- Read the official DRDO RCI notification carefully and verify your eligibility before starting the registration process.
- Graduate and Diploma candidates should register on the NATS 2.0 portal, while ITI candidates should register on the Apprenticeship India portal. Ensure registration details are accurate.
- Log in to the respective portal and search for Research Centre Imarat (RCI). Choose the appropriate apprenticeship category before applying.
- Complete the application process and upload the required educational and identity documents. Check document quality before submission.
- Submit the application form and save the confirmation details for future reference. Regularly check your registered email for updates.
Important Dates
| Notification Release Date | 01 October 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 01 October 2026 |
| Application Last Date | 01 November 2026 |
| Age Cut-Off Date | 01 September 2026 |
Important Links
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Official Notification | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
Final Words
The DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 offers a great opportunity for Graduate, Diploma, and ITI candidates to gain hands-on experience in a prestigious DRDO laboratory. A total of 195 apprentice vacancies have been announced, and interested candidates should complete their applications before 01 November 2026.
