The Indian Navy has commenced registration for the Short Service Commission (SSC) Officer Recruitment 2026 inviting eligible candidates to apply online for officer positions in various branches. The recruitment drive aims to fill approximately 260 vacancies as part of the January 2027 (ST-27) course at the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala.
Indian Navy SSC Officer Recruitment 2026 — Application Window
The online application process for the Indian Navy SSC Officer Recruitment 2026 began on 24 January 2026 and will continue until 24 February 2026. Eligible candidates must complete their applications through the official Indian Navy portal at joinindiannavy.gov.in before the deadline. The recruitment notification outlines key details such as vacancies, eligibility criteria, selection process, and important dates. Interested applicants should ensure timely submission to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Vacancies and Branches Available
The SSC Officer recruitment offers roles across diverse branches, allowing candidates to serve in capacities suited to their academic background. The key branches under this recruitment include:
- Executive Branch (General Service, Naval Air Operations, Pilot, Air Traffic Controller)
- Technical Branch (Engineering, Electrical, Submarine Technical entries)
- Education Branch
- Logistics and other support roles
The total of approximately 260 vacancies is divided among these branches, with specific posts and numbers varying based on organisational requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for SSC Officer Posts
To be eligible for the Indian Navy SSC Officer Recruitment 2026, candidates must meet certain educational and age requirements as per official norms. Key criteria generally include:
- Nationality: Indian citizen
- Marital status: Unmarried (men and women eligible)
- Educational qualification: Graduation degree with specified minimum marks (often 60% or equivalent CGPA) depending on branch
- Age limits: Defined branch-wise in the official notification
- Final-year students: Often eligible provided they complete their degree before the course commencement
Candidates should refer to the official recruitment notification for detailed branch-specific eligibility and qualification requirements before applying.
How to Apply Online for Indian Navy SSC Officer Recruitment?
Applicants must complete the registration process online through the joinindiannavy.gov.in portal. The general process includes:
- Visit the official Indian Navy recruitment website.
- Register with valid personal and educational details.
- Upload required documents such as educational certificates, photographs, and signatures.
- Submit the online application form and retain a copy for future reference.
Applications submitted after 24 February 2026 will not be accepted, so candidates are advised to complete the process well ahead of the deadline.
Selection Process for SSC Officer Posts
The selection for Indian Navy SSC Officer positions generally includes:
- Shortlisting of applications based on academic performance
- Services Selection Board (SSB) interview comprising screening and detailed evaluation
- Medical examination to ensure fitness
- Final merit list based on performance and vacancy availability
Candidates who clear the SSB interview and medical standards will be placed on the final merit list and offered appointment as Sub-Lieutenants under Short Service Commission.
Training and Career Prospects
Selected candidates undergo professional training at the Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala, Kerala. Upon successful course completion, they are commissioned as officers and serve on various operational and administrative assignments based on branch allocation. Joining the Indian Navy as an SSC Officer offers a prestigious defence career with structured progression, competitive pay and allowances, and opportunities for specialized roles.