Indian Navy SSC Officer Recruitment Jan 2027 (ST 27 Course), Apply for 260 Posts Now. The Indian Navy has released an official notification inviting applications from eligible unmarried candidates for Short Service Commission (SSC) Officers across various branches for the January 2027 course at the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this prestigious opportunity.
Indian Navy SSC Officer Recruitment Jan 2027: Applications are invited from eligible unmarried men and unmarried women candidates for grant of Short Service Commission (SSC) for course commencing Jan 2027 onwards at Indian Naval Academy (INA) Ezhimala, Kerala. Candidates must fulfill conditions of nationality as laid down by the Government of India.
Online application window for SSC (various entries) Jan 27 Course will be live from 24 Jan – 24 Feb 26.
The Indian Navy has released the official advertisement inviting applications for the Short Service Commission (SSC) Officers for various entries under the January 2027 (ST 27) Course. This is a prestigious opportunity for unmarried men and women to join the Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala, Kerala, and serve the nation as commissioned officers.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Organization | Indian Navy |
| Course Name | Short Service Commission (SSC) – Jan 2027 (ST 27) |
| Training Location | Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala |
| Total Vacancies | 257 (Tentative) |
| Application Mode | Online Only |
| Application Start Date | 24 January 2026 |
| Application Last Date | 24 February 2026 |
| Official Website | www.joinindiannavy.gov.in |
| Marital Status | Only Unmarried Candidates |
| Nationality | Indian (as per Government of India norms) |
| Service Tenure | 12 years (extendable by 2 years) |
| Starting Rank | Sub Lieutenant |
The Indian Navy is offering 257 tentative vacancies across three major branches:
Executive Branch Vacancies (129 Posts)
- Executive Branch GS(X)/Hydro – 76 Posts:: General Service: 70 Posts (60 Men + 10 Women), Hydro Cadre: 6 Posts (5 Men + 1 Woman)
- Pilot – 25 Posts (22 Men + 3 Women)
- Naval Air Operations Officer (Observers) – 20 Posts (17 Men + 3 Women)
- Air Traffic Controller (ATC) – 18 Posts (Men and Women)
- Logistics – 10 Posts (9 Men + 1 Woman)
Education Branch Vacancies (15 Posts)
- Education Branch – 15 Posts (Men and Women)
- Various specialisations in Mathematics, Physics, Engineering disciplines
Technical Branch Vacancies (96 Posts)
- Engineering Branch (General Service) – 42 Posts (35 Men + 7 Women)
- Submarine Tech Engineering – 8 Posts (Only Men)
- Electrical Branch (General Service) – 38 Posts (31 Men + 7 Women)
- Submarine Tech Electrical – 8 Posts (Only Men)
Note: Vacancies are tentative and may change based on training slot availability and service requirements.
Age Limit
The age limit varies according to different branches and entries:
| Branch/Entry | Date of Birth |
|---|---|
| Executive Branch GS(X)/Hydro | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jul 2007 |
| Pilot | 02 Jan 2003 to 01 Jan 2008 |
| Naval Air Operations Officer | 02 Jan 2003 to 01 Jan 2008 |
| Air Traffic Controller | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jan 2006 |
| Logistics | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jun 2007 |
| Education (Most streams) | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jan 2006 |
| Education (ME/M.Tech specific) | 02 Jan 2000 to 01 Jan 2006 |
| Engineering/Electrical Branch | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jul 2007 |
Special Relaxations:
- Merchant Navy Personnel: Born between 02 Jan 1997 to 01 Jul 2007
- Commercial Pilot License Holders: Born between 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jan 2008
Indian Navy SSC Officer Recruitment Jan 2027 Educational Qualifications
Executive Branch
1. Executive Branch GS(X)/Hydro:
- BE/B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% marks
2. Pilot:
- BE/B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% marks
- 60% aggregate in Class X and XII
- Minimum 60% marks in English in Class X or XII
3. Naval Air Operations Officer:
- BE/B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% marks
- 60% aggregate in Class X and XII
- Minimum 60% marks in English in Class X or XII
4. Air Traffic Controller:
- BE/B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% marks
5. Logistics (Any one of the following):
- BE/B.Tech in any discipline with First Class, OR
- MBA with First Class, OR
- B.Sc/B.Com/B.Sc.(IT) with First Class + PG Diploma in Finance/Logistics/Supply Chain Management/Material Management, OR
- MCA/M.Sc (IT) with First Class
Indian Navy SSC Officer Recruitment Jan 2027 Education Branch
Candidates must have minimum 60% marks in Class X, XII and English in Class X or XII, along with:
- MSc/MA (60%) in Mathematics/Operational Research (with Physics in BSc)
- MSc/MA (60%) in Physics/Applied Physics (with Maths in BSc)/Meteorology/Oceanography/Atmospheric Sciences (with Physics and Maths in BSc)
- BE/B.Tech (60%) in Mechanical/Production Engineering
- BE/B.Tech/M.Tech (60%) in Computer Science Engineering/MCA (with Physics or Mathematics at graduation)
- BE/B.Tech (60%) in Electrical/Electronics & Communication/Electronics & Instrumentation
- ME/M.Tech (60%) in specified streams like Electronics & Communication, Controls, VLSI, Power Systems, etc.
- ME/M.Tech (60%) in Thermal/Production/Machine Design/Manufacturing/Mechatronics/Meteorology, etc.
Indian Navy SSC Officer Recruitment Jan 2027 Technical Branch
Engineering Branch (General Service): BE/B.Tech with minimum 60% marks in:
- Marine Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Metallurgy Engineering
- Instrumentation Engineering
- Automobile Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Production Engineering
- Control Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering & Management
- Instrumentation & Control
- Mechanical/Mechanical with Automation
Electrical Branch (General Service): BE/B.Tech with minimum 60% marks in:
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics Engineering
- Instrumentation
- Telecommunication
- Electrical & Electronics
- Electronics & Communication
- Electronics & Telecommunication
- Applied Electronics & Instrumentation
- Electronics & Instrumentation
- Applied Electronics and Communication (AEC)
- Power Electronics
- Power Engineering
- Instrumentation & Control
No application fee has been mentioned in the official notification. The application process is completely online and free of cost.
The selection procedure follows a comprehensive multi-stage process:
- Shortlisting: Applications are shortlisted based on normalized marks obtained in the qualifying degree.
- SSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates will undergo a 5-day SSB interview process (Intelligence Test, Psychological Testing, Group Task, and Interview).
- Medical Examination: Recommended candidates must pass a medical fitness board.
- Final Merit List: Based on SSB marks and medical clearance, subject to vacancy availability.
Stage 1: Shortlisting Based on Academic Performance
- Shortlisting will be based on normalized marks obtained in the qualifying degree
- Normalization formula is available on the official website (joinindiannavy.gov.in/files/normalisation.pdf)
For BE/B.Tech candidates:
- Completed degree: All semester marks considered
- Final year students: Marks up to 5th semester considered
For Post-Graduate candidates (MSc, MCA, MBA, M.Tech):
- Completed degree: All semester marks considered
- Final year students: Pre-final year performance considered
NCC Relaxation: NCC ‘C’ certificate holders get 5% relaxation in shortlisting cut-off marks (conditions apply)
Stage 2: Service Selection Board (SSB) Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be called for SSB interview at designated centers. The SSB process includes:
- Psychological tests
- Group testing
- Personal interview
- Conference procedure
Important SSB Guidelines:
- Candidates appearing for the first time receive AC 3-tier rail fare
- Change of SSB center is not permissible
- No compensation for injuries during SSB tests
- Candidates must carry bank account details (passbook/cheque copy)
Stage 3: Pilot/Observer Specific Tests (If Applicable)
- CPSS (Computerized Pilot Selection System) for Pilot entry
- Aviation Medical Examination for Pilot/Observer entries
Stage 4: Medical Examination
SSB-recommended candidates undergo comprehensive medical examination as per Indian Navy standards. Medical standards include:
- Height, weight, and physical measurements
- Vision standards
- General health parameters
- Specific standards for Pilot/Submarine entries
Note: Change of medical hospital/center is not permissible under any circumstances.
Stage 5: Merit List Preparation
- Final merit list prepared based on SSB marks
- Selection subject to vacancy availability and medical fitness
- Mere inclusion in select list doesn’t guarantee appointment
Candidates appearing for SSB must carry:
- Printed application form
- Original educational certificates (10th, 12th, degree mark sheets)
- Date of birth proof
- CGPA conversion formula (if applicable)
- NCC ‘C’ certificate (if applicable)
- Merchant Navy certificate (if applicable)
- Commercial Pilot License (if applicable)
- Recent passport-size color photograph
- Bank passbook/cheque copy with IFSC details
Critical: Any backlog in any subject at the time of document verification will result in denial to appear for SSB.
Pre-Application Preparation
Before starting the application, keep ready:
- Scanned documents in JPG/TIFF format (clear and legible)
- Mark sheets up to 5th semester (BE/B.Tech regular) or 7th semester (integrated courses)
- All semester mark sheets for post-graduate degrees
- 10th and 12th certificates (for date of birth proof)
- CGPA conversion formula
- Recent passport-size color photograph
- Valid email address and mobile number
- Relevant certificates (NCC, Merchant Navy, CPL if applicable)
Application Process
- Step 1: Visit the official website www.joinindiannavy.gov.in
- Step 2: Register with valid email ID and mobile number (mandatory fields)
- Step 3: Fill personal particulars exactly as per Matriculation Certificate
- Step 4: Select branch/cadre preferences carefully
Indicate all branches you wish to be considered for
You will NOT be considered for branches not selected
- Step 5: Upload scanned documents (ensure they are legible)
- Step 6: Review all information carefully (no amendments allowed after submission)
- Step 7: Submit the application and save/print the confirmation
- Step 8: Download and keep the application form for SSB interview
Application Window
- Start Date: 24 January 2026
- Last Date: 24 February 2026
- Mode: Online only through www.joinindiannavy.gov.in
Important Application Guidelines
- Only ONE application per candidate (multiple applications lead to cancellation)
- All fields must be filled correctly
- Documents must be original scans (not photocopies of scans)
- Application once submitted is FINAL
- Keep email/mobile number unchanged until selection process completes
- Check inbox and spam folder periodically for updates
Basic Pay Structure
Starting Salary: Approximately Rs 1,25,000/- per month (gross) as Sub Lieutenant
This includes:
- Basic pay
- Military Service Pay (MSP)
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- Other applicable allowances
Special Allowances
1. Flying Allowance:
- Pilot/Naval Air Operations Officer: Rs 31,250/- per month (after successful training completion)
2. Submarine Allowance:
- Submarine specialists: Rs 31,250/- per month (after successful training completion)
3. Other Allowances (as applicable):
- Transport Allowance
- Kit Maintenance Allowance
- Ration Allowance
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Children Education Allowance
Insurance and Benefits
Naval Group Insurance Scheme (NGIS):
- Compulsory membership for all officers/cadets
- Coverage during service and post-retirement
- Contribution-based insurance cover
Gratuity Benefits:
- As per government norms
- Payable upon completion of service tenure
Leave Entitlements:
- Annual leave as per service regulations
- Medical leave
- Special leaves (maternity, casual, etc.)
Training Location and Duration
- Academy: Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala
- Training Period: Varies by branch/specialization
- Joining Rank: Sub Lieutenant (inducted subject to medical clearance)
Training Conditions
1. Marital Status:
- Only unmarried candidates eligible for training
- Marriage during training leads to discharge and refund of all pay/allowances
2. Voluntary Withdrawal:
- Officers withdrawing during initial training must refund:
- Full or partial cost of training
- All pay and allowances received
- Interest as per government loan rates
3. Probation Period:
- Duration: 2 years from date of Sub Lieutenant rank or training completion (whichever is later)
- Officers liable to discharge for unsatisfactory performance during probation
Post-Training Assignments
1. Submarine Specialization:
- GS(X) male candidates can volunteer (subject to medical fitness)
- Selection after clearing submarine medicals at INA
- Submarine allowance payable post-training
2. RPA (Remotely Piloted Aircraft) Specialization:
- GS(X) selected candidates may be nominated
- Post-INA training completion
- Subject to medical fitness and service requirements
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Release | January 2026 |
| Online Application Opens | 24 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 February 2026 |
| Shortlisting | March-April 2026 (Expected) |
| SSB Interviews | April-September 2026 (Expected) |
| Medical Examination | May-October 2026 (Expected) |
| Final Result Intimation | To SSB Qualified Candidates |
| Submit Final Degree Results | Before 20 December 2026 |
| Course Commencement | January 2027 |
Commission Period
Initial Tenure: 12 years as Short Service Commission
Extension: Maximum 2 additional years (total 14 years)
Extension Criteria:
- Service requirement
- Performance evaluation
- Medical fitness
- Willingness of candidate
Career Path
Officers undergo systematic career progression with:
- Rank promotions based on merit and tenure
- Specialized training opportunities
- Branch-specific skill development
- Leadership responsibilities
Medical Standards and Physical Requirements
General Medical Standards
Candidates must meet Indian Navy medical standards for:
- Vision (near and distant)
- Hearing capacity
- General physical fitness
- Dental health
- Cardiovascular fitness
Entry-Specific Requirements
Pilot Entry:
- Stringent height and leg length requirements
- Special vision standards
- Enhanced physical fitness norms
Submarine Entry:
- Additional submarine-specific medical tests
- Clearance required after joining INA
- Specialized fitness parameters
Tattoo Policy
Tattoos are permitted subject to Indian Navy regulations. Details available on www.joinindiannavy.gov.in
Height and Weight Relaxations
Specific relaxations may be available for certain categories. Complete details on the official website.
NCC Certificate Holders
Benefits:
- 5% relaxation in shortlisting cut-off marks
Eligibility for Relaxation:
- NCC ‘C’ certificate (Naval/Army/Air Wing)
- Minimum ‘B’ Grade
- At least 2 academic years in Senior Division
- Certificate dated on or after 01 January 2024
- Certificate validity verified by DGNCC
Merchant Navy Personnel
Executive Branch (GS):
- Second Mate/Mate/Master certificate holders
- Age: 02 Jan 1997 to 01 Jul 2007
Technical Branch (Engineering):
- 1st Class Engineer certificate holders
- Age: 02 Jan 1997 to 01 Jul 2007
Requirement: Valid Government of India, Ministry of Shipping & Transport Certificate of Competency
Commercial Pilot License Holders
- Valid CPL issued by DGCA (India)
- Age: 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jan 2008
- Eligible for Pilot entry as per standard criteria
Q1. Can I apply for multiple branches?
- Answer: Yes, you must indicate all your preferences while filling the application form. You will only be considered for branches you select. However, submit only ONE application – multiple applications will lead to cancellation.
Q2. What if I’m in my final year of engineering?
- Answer: Final year students can apply. For shortlisting, marks up to 5th semester will be considered for BE/B.Tech. You must complete your degree with minimum 60% marks before joining INA in January 2027.
Q3. Is there any application fee?
- Answer: No application fee is mentioned in the official notification. The process is free of cost.
Q4. Can married candidates apply?
- Answer: No, only unmarried men and women are eligible. Marriage during training leads to discharge and refund obligations.
Q5. What is the normalization of marks?
- Answer: Since candidates come from different universities with different grading systems, marks are normalized using a standard formula available at joinindiannavy.gov.in/files/normalisation.pdf to ensure fair comparison.
Q6. Can I change my SSB center or date?
- Answer: Change of SSB center is NOT permissible. For date changes, contact the SSB call-up officer mentioned in your call letter.
Q7. What happens if I have a backlog at the time of SSB?
- Answer: You will be denied permission to appear for SSB if any backlog is pending at the time of document verification.
Q8. How do I know if I’m shortlisted for SSB?
- Answer: Shortlisted candidates receive intimation via email and SMS on their registered contact details. Keep checking your inbox and spam folder.
Q9. What is the probation period?
- Answer: The probation period is 2 years from the date of grant of Sub Lieutenant rank or completion of initial training (whichever is later).
Q10. Can women apply for all branches?
- Answer: Women can apply for most branches with specific vacancy limits. However, Submarine Technical branches (Engineering and Electrical) are only for men.
Q11. What if I withdraw during training?
- Answer: Voluntary withdrawal or resignation during probation requires refund of full/partial training cost, all pay and allowances received, plus interest as per government rates.
Q12. Is AC travel provided for SSB interview?
- Answer: Yes, AC 3-tier rail fare is admissible if appearing for the first time for a particular type of commission. Carry bank account details for reimbursement.
Q13. When should I submit my final degree results?
- Answer: All SSB recommended candidates must inform their final degree results to Indian Navy at officer@navy.gov.in before 20 December 2026.
- Download Notification PDF
- Apply online Link
- Website: www.joinindiannavy.gov.in
- Application Portal: www.joinindiannavy.gov.in (Same as official website)
- Email for Queries: officer@navy.gov.in
- Normalization Formula: https://www.joinindiannavy.gov.in/files/normalisation.pdf
- SSB Procedure Details: Available on Indian Navy website
- Medical Standards: Available on Indian Navy website
- Tattoo Policy: Available on Indian Navy website