DRDO Student Internship Scheme 2026: Project Training, Eligibility & How to Apply

At a glance

About the scheme

The Defence Research and Development Organisation under the Ministry of Defence runs this project training scheme to offer prospective science and engineering graduates direct exposure to cutting-edge research. Selected students work alongside researchers in unclassified lab areas on technologies critical to national defence. The internship tenure generally spans from four weeks to six months, giving candidates valuable hands-on technical experience in premier government laboratories.

Benefits

• Practical internship training in technical areas relevant to DRDO research.
• Opportunity to participate in and be associated with ongoing defence research projects.
• Training tenure typically spans from 4 weeks up to 6 months, based on the academic course and discretion of the Lab Director.

Who can apply (eligibility)

• Applicants must be currently pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in Engineering or General Sciences.
• Interns are permitted access exclusively to unclassified areas of DRDO laboratories and establishments.
• Internship placements are subject to seat availability in the chosen laboratory and approval by the respective Lab Director.

Who cannot apply

• The provisions of the Apprentices Act, 1961 do not apply to this training program.
• The internship does not guarantee or obligate DRDO to offer any employment upon completion.
• Interns are strictly barred from entering classified areas of DRDO establishments.
• DRDO does not provide any compensation for personal injuries arising from accidents during the training period.

Documents required

• Valid Identity Proof (such as Aadhaar Card or College ID)
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Academic mark sheets or transcripts from the latest completed semester
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) describing technical areas of interest
• Duly filled Declaration Form affirming compliance with DRDO rules and liability conditions
• Any other supporting documents requested by the specific laboratory

How to apply

1. 1Identify the relevant DRDO laboratory or establishment that corresponds directly to your academic field and discipline.
2. 2Prepare your application along with academic transcripts, Identity Proof, Statement of Purpose, and required declaration form.
3. 3Route the application officially through your college or university administration to initiate formal correspondence.
4. 4Submit the complete application dossier directly to the concerned DRDO laboratory or establishment rather than DRDO Headquarters.
5. 5Await approval and formal joining communication from the respective Lab Director based on lab vacancies.

Frequently asked questions