Craftsmen Training Scheme 2026: ITI Vocational Training, Eligibility & How to Apply

At a glance

About the scheme

Launched by the Directorate General of Training under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) prepares young individuals for industrial careers through hands-on technical education. Operating through a nationwide network of over 15,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and 33 National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs), the program aligns curriculum with domestic and international industrial standards. Students undergo practical workshop training, periodic evaluations, and the All India Trade Test (AITT) to earn a nationally recognized National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) certificate.

Benefits

• Practical skill training in various engineering and non-engineering trades for 6 months to 2 years
• Nationally recognized trade certificate from the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) upon passing the All India Trade Test
• Access to a learning network of 15,042 Industrial Training Institutes and 33 National Skill Training Institutes
• Training on modern industrial machinery, well-equipped workshops, and guidance from qualified instructors
• Enhanced employment prospects in domestic and international job markets

Who can apply (eligibility)

• The applicant must be a citizen of India
• Age must generally be between 14 and 40 years, depending on the chosen trade
• Must have completed the minimum educational qualification required for the trade, ranging from 8th standard to 12th standard
• Must be able to read and write in the local language, Hindi, or English
• Must be medically and physically fit to perform activities required by the trade
• Must meet trade-specific physical criteria, such as normal color vision for electrical trades
• Must demonstrate basic aptitude for the chosen vocational trade

Who cannot apply

• Applicants with physical disabilities that prevent them from performing the essential activities of the selected trade
• Applicants unable to meet minimum trade-specific fitness criteria (e.g., color blindness in electrical trades)
• Candidates unable to maintain a minimum of 80% attendance during the training period

Documents required

• Educational qualification certificates and marksheets (8th, 10th, or 12th standard)
• Age proof certificate (Birth Certificate or 10th standard certificate)
• Aadhaar card copy
• Recent passport-size photographs
• Medical fitness certificate from a registered medical practitioner
• Caste certificate (for reserved category applicants, if applicable)
• Income certificate (for fee concession, if applicable)
• Domicile certificate (for state quota seats, if applicable)
• Character certificate and Transfer Certificate (TC) from the last attended institute
• Migration certificate (if changing board or university)

How to apply

1. 1Visit the nearest Industrial Training Institute (ITI) to collect the official admission application form.
2. 2Fill in your personal details, academic background, and chosen trade preferences accurately.
3. 3Attach self-attested copies of all necessary documents, including age proof, qualification certificates, and medical fitness.
4. 4Pay the required application and training fees as specified by the institute.
5. 5Submit the filled application along with supporting documents to the authorized ITI office before the deadline and collect an official acknowledgement receipt.
6. 6Check the institute merit list and report on the designated date for document verification and admission confirmation.

Frequently asked questions