Indian Navy Short Service Commission (SSC) Officer Recruitment 2026

The Indian Navy has invited online applications from unmarried eligible men and women for the Short Service Commission (SSC) in the Executive, Education, and Technical branches for the course commencing in January 2027 onwards at the Indian Naval Academy (INA) Ezhimala, Kerala.

1. Important Dates

• Online Registration Starts: January 24, 2026.
• Online Registration Ends: February 24, 2026.
• SSB Interviews: Scheduled progressively throughout the year based on branch.

2. Selection Process (Direct SSB)

This entry is unique as it often bypasses a written exam for engineering graduates, taking candidates directly to the SSB interview based on their degree marks.

1. Shortlisting: Candidates are shortlisted for SSB based on their normalized marks in the qualifying degree (BE/B.Tech with minimum 60% marks). For candidates in their final year, marks up to the 5th/7th semester are considered.
2. SSB Interview: A rigorous 5-day evaluation process involving:
   • Stage 1: Intelligence Test, Picture Perception and Discussion test (PPDT).
   • Stage 2: Psychological testing, Group testing and Interview.
3. Medical Examination: Candidates recommended by the SSB undergo stringent medical fitness tests.
4. Merit List: Based on SSB marks, medical fitness, and available vacancies.

3. Branches and Roles available

• Executive Branch: General Service/Hydro Cadre, Air Traffic Controller (ATC), Observer, Pilot, Logistics.
• Education Branch: Requires M.Sc/M.Tech with specific subjects.
• Technical Branch: Engineering Branch (General Service), Electrical Branch (General Service), Naval Constructor.

4. Official Direct Links

Resource	Link
Official Navy Portal	joinindiannavy.gov.in
Candidate Login/Apply	Register Here

5. Preparation Strategy for SSB

Since this is a direct entry, your entire focus should be on the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.

• OIR (Officer Intelligence Rating): Practice basic verbal and non-verbal reasoning questions daily to ensure you clear Day 1 screening.
• Psychology: Practice writing positive, action-oriented stories for PPDT and TAT. Ensure your WAT (Word Association Test) responses show leadership and logical thinking.
• Current Affairs: Read a national newspaper (The Hindu/Indian Express) daily. You must be deeply aware of national and international geopolitical events for the Group Discussion and Interview.
• Physical Fitness: Maintain excellent physical fitness to excel in Individual Obstacles.