NCC Special Entry 124 Course October 2026 offers a golden opportunity for unmarried male graduates with NCC C Certificate (B Grade). Check eligibility, vacancies, selection process, SSB details, salary, and important links.
The NCC Special Entry 124 Course October 2026 is a remarkable opportunity for eligible NCC cadets who dream of becoming officers in the Indian Army. If you are an unmarried male graduate with an NCC C Certificate and a minimum ‘B’ grade, this entry scheme could be your direct path to wearing the olive green uniform.
The Indian Army has invited applications for the 124th Course commencing in October 2026 under the Short Service Commission (Non-Technical). This entry also includes wards of battle casualties of Army personnel. Let’s explore all the essential details including eligibility, vacancies, application dates, selection process, SSB interview, training, salary, and more.
Overview of NCC Special Entry 124 Course October 2026
The NCC Special Entry Scheme allows candidates with an NCC background to apply directly for SSB without appearing for a written examination like CDS. This makes it one of the most attractive entries for dedicated NCC cadets.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Entry Name | NCC Special Entry 124 Course |
| Course Commencement | October 2026 |
| Commission Type | Short Service Commission (Non-Technical) |
| Gender | Unmarried Male Candidates |
| Vacancies | 63 (NCC) + 07 (Wards of Battle Casualties) |
| Training Academy | Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai |
| Training Duration | 49 Weeks |
Important Dates for NCC Special Entry 124 Course October 2026
Here are the key dates you must remember:
- Application Start Date:Â 12 February 2026
- Application Last Date:Â 16 March 2026
- Shortlisting for SSB:Â Likely First Week of May 2026
- SSB Interview:Â May / June 2026
- Course Start:Â October 2026
Candidates must apply online through the official website:
 Official Website: https://joinindianarmy.nic.in
For detailed notification, always refer to the official portal.
Eligibility Criteria for NCC Special Entry 124 Course October 2026
Before applying, make sure you meet all eligibility requirements.
1. Nationality
Candidates must be Indian citizens as per official guidelines.
2. Age Limit
- Minimum Age: 19 years
- Maximum Age: 25 years
- Age should be between 19 to 25 years as on 1 July 2026
3. Educational Qualification
- Graduate degree from a recognized university.
- Minimum ‘B’ Grade in NCC ‘C’ Certificate examination.
4. Marital Status
- Only unmarried male candidates are eligible.
Vacancy Details
The total number of vacancies for this course is:
- 63 Vacancies for NCC candidates
- 07 Vacancies for Wards of Battle Casualties of Army Personnel
This brings the total to 70 vacancies.
Since competition is high, candidates must prepare seriously for SSB and improve their Officer Like Qualities (OLQs).
Selection Process Explained Step-by-Step
The selection process for NCC Special Entry 124 Course October 2026 is thorough and structured.
Step 1: Online Application
Apply through the official website:
 https://joinindianarmy.nic.in
Step 2: Shortlisting of Applications
Applications will be shortlisted based on graduation percentage. The cut-off percentage will determine who gets called for SSB.
Step 3: SSB Interview
Shortlisted candidates will receive call letters via email or SMS.
The SSB process lasts 5 days and includes:
- Screening Test
- Psychological Tests
- Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks
- Personal Interview
- Conference
Candidates who clear screening move to the conference stage.
Step 4: Medical Examination
Recommended candidates undergo medical tests as per Army standards.
Step 5: Final Merit List
Final selection depends on:
- SSB performance
- Medical fitness
- Availability of vacancies
Merit list candidates receive joining letters.
Choice of SSB Centre
Candidates can choose their preferred SSB centre and dates. The window for selecting SSB centre and date remains open for approximately 15 days in April 2026.
Training at Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai
Officers Training Academy
Selected candidates will undergo pre-commission training at the prestigious Officers Training Academy in Chennai.
Training Details
- Duration: 49 Weeks
- Commencement: October 2026
The training is physically demanding, mentally challenging, and leadership-focused. It prepares Gentlemen Cadets to become capable Army officers.
Stipend During Training
During training, Gentlemen Cadets will receive:
- ₹56,100 per month
This financial support ensures that cadets can focus entirely on training.
Rank and Salary After Commissioning
After successful completion of training, candidates will be commissioned as Lieutenant in the Indian Army.
CTC After Commissioning
- Approximately ₹17–18 Lakhs per annum
- Excludes free medical cover
- Excludes annual home town travel benefits
This makes NCC Special Entry 124 Course October 2026 financially rewarding as well as prestigious.
Type of Commission
This entry offers a Short Service Commission (SSC).
Service Duration Options
- Option to leave after 5 years
- Extension up to 10 years
- Further extension up to 14 years
Permanent Commission Option
Officers may apply for Permanent Commission after completing 10 years of service.
Medical Standards
Medical standards must be as per official Army guidelines. Candidates are advised to check detailed medical criteria on the official website before applying.
Official Details:Â https://joinindianarmy.nic.in
Why Choose NCC Special Entry 124 Course October 2026?
Here’s why this entry stands out:
- No written examination
- Direct SSB call
- Leadership-based selection
- Prestigious Army career
- Attractive salary and benefits
- Opportunity to serve the nation
For NCC cadets, this is truly a golden gateway.
Preparation Tips for SSB
If you want to clear SSB, focus on:
- Improving communication skills
- Staying physically fit
- Reading current affairs
- Developing Officer Like Qualities (OLQs)
- Practicing group discussions and psychological tests
Remember, SSB tests personality, not just knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the last date to apply for NCC Special Entry 124 Course October 2026?
The last date to apply is 16 March 2026.
2. Is there any written exam for this entry?
No, there is no written exam. Candidates are shortlisted directly for SSB based on graduation marks.
3. What is the minimum NCC grade required?
A minimum ‘B’ Grade in NCC ‘C’ Certificate is required.
4. How many vacancies are available?
There are 70 total vacancies (63 NCC + 07 Wards of Battle Casualties).
5. What is the age limit?
Candidates must be between 19 to 25 years as on 1 July 2026.
6. Where will the training take place?
Training will be conducted at the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai.
