What is TES-54?
The 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES-54) is a permanent-commission pathway for young, unmarried male candidates who have completed Class 12 with PCM and appeared in JEE (Mains) 2025. There’s no NDA-style exam — selection is based on JEE rank and SSB performance.
🗓️ Key Dates – January 2026 Batch
- Notification Released: ~12–13 May 2025
- Apply Online: 13 May – 12 June 2025
- Course Commences: January 2026
🔢 Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Between 16½ and 19½ years as on 1 January 2026 (born between 2 Jul 2006 – 1 Jul 2009)
- Education: 10+2 with PCM, ≥ 60% aggregate
- JEE (Mains): Must have appeared in 2025 session
- Citizenship: Indian male, unmarried (Nepalese or PIOs also eligible with certificate)
- Physical & Medical: Meet SSB standards (height, vision, chest, fitness test)
📄 Selection Process
- Shortlisting – Based on JEE (Mains) CRL rank and PCM
- SSB Interview – 5-day evaluation at Prayagraj, Bhopal, Bengaluru, or Jalandhar
- Medical Exam – For those recommended by SSB
- Final Merit List – Determined by SSB performance
🏋️ Training & Service
- Duration: 4 years
- Phase 1: 3 years at CTWs in Pune/Mhow/Secunderabad
- Phase 2: 1 year at Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
- Degree: B.Eng (or equivalent) awarded on completion
- Commission: Permanent Commission as Lieutenant
💰 Pay, Perks & Benefits
- Training Stipend: ₹56,100/month
- Post-Commission Pay: Level‑10 pay band (₹56,100–₹1,77,500) + Military Service Pay and allowances
- Other Benefits: Insurance cover, free medical for family, dearness aid, risk & hardship allowances, subsidized travel & education.
🧭 JEE Cut-Off & Insider Insights
- Reddit users share: “final JEE Percentile is considered…anything above 85%ile should work”
“Cutoffs are 3,50,000 JEE RANK & 70+ PCM. For TES.” - JEE percentile and PCM percentage are crucial for shortlisting; aim for ≥ 60% in PCM and a strong JEE rank.
🔍 Application Tips
- Ensure exact entry of PCM marks up to two decimal places—No rounding.
- Keep JEE roll no., Class 10 & 12 mark sheets, photo/signature, and ID proof ready.
- No fee for any category of applicants.
🎯 Why TES-54 is a Great Path
- No written entrance test — streamlined selection via JEE + SSB
- Guaranteed Engineering degree + direct Entry as Lieutenant with Permanent Commission
- Excellent remuneration and career progression in a respectable defence role
🔭 Final Thoughts
TES-54 offers a golden opportunity for Class 12 PCM students aiming to join the Indian Army as technical officers. With just the JEE (Mains) and SSB to prepare for, candidates can focus on consistency in PCM scores and holistic development to ace the SSB. Stay alert for the application window (13 May – 12 June 2025), be precise with documentation, and plan ahead for SSB prep. Best of luck to all aspirants—here’s to serving the nation and shaping a promising career!