Nearly one in every 1,000 engineering and technical candidates could land a role in cutting‑edge defense labs this cycle — that’s the scale of opportunity behind the new hiring drive. You’ll get a clear snapshot of 764 vacancies split between Senior Technical Assistant‑B (561) and Technician‑A (203), so you can quickly judge fit.
A short notification went live on 4 December 2025, and online registration opens on 9 December 2025 at the official website. Mark the likely closing date for applications as 8 January 2026 and the fee payment cut‑off as 10 January 2026, so you don’t miss the window.
Pay ranges follow 7th CPC levels: STA‑B Level‑6 (Rs. 35,400–1,12,400) and Tech‑A Level‑3 (Rs. 19,900–63,200). The selection path is CBT‑based: STA‑B uses CBT 1 (screening) and CBT 2 (selection), while Tech‑A pairs CBT 1 with a Trade/Skill Test. Use this page to prepare your documents, plan your timeline, and avoid fake links by applying only on the official portal.
Key Takeaways
There are 764 total posts: 561 STA‑B and 203 Tech‑A, giving you clear role options.
Registration opens 9 December 2025; the last date to register is 8 January 2026, and the fee is due by 10 January 2026.
Apply only via the official website listed in the short notification to avoid scams.
STA‑B selection requires two CBT stages; Tech‑A adds a Trade/Skill Test after CBT.
Salary bands are Level‑6 and Level‑3 under the 7th CPC, showing good growth potential.
Keep ID, educational proofs, and payment details ready before you apply to save time.
All Details
1. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Overview
This hiring drive opens pathways into mission‑critical defence labs across India. If you want to work on real-world projects, the DRDO CEPTAM vacancies let you join teams focused on research development and indigenization.
You’ll find 764 openings across two main tracks: senior technical (STA‑B) and Technician‑A. Roles span lab work, testing, production support, and field assignments.
The selection process keeps things transparent. Screening and selection use CBT stages, and Tech‑A adds trade/skill testing. This standardized approach makes shortlisting merit‑based and nationwide.
Stability and growth: Central government pay scales and career paths under the 7th CPC.
Fit for varied backgrounds: B.Sc., diploma, or ITI holders can map skills to lab and shop‑floor duties.
Early application advantage: Better exam city choices and faster document processing when you register on time at www.drdo.gov.in.
Post | Seats | Selection stages |
Senior Technical (STA‑B) | 561 | CBT‑1 (screening) + CBT‑2 |
Technician‑A | 203 | CBT‑1 + Trade/Skill Test |
Overall | 764 | Standardized exam & verification process |
2. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Notification and key dates
An official short notice published in early December pins down the key dates for applicants. Read this section to lock in the notification details and set up your calendar reminders.
2.1 Short notice release and advertisement number
The short notice was issued on 4 December 2025, officially announcing the advertisement number CEPTAM 11. Use that number when tracking updates, admit cards, or any correspondence on the portal.
2.2 Online registration window, last date, and fee payment deadlines
Online registration opens on 9 December 2025 at the official website, www.drdo.gov.in. Start early to avoid last‑minute upload issues and to secure preferred exam cities.
The last date to complete registration is 8 January 2026. Note that fee payment usually has a separate cut‑off: complete the fee by 10 January 2026 to validate your form.
Short notice: 4 December 2025 — confirms CEPTAM 11 activity.
Registration starts: 9 December 2025 — create your account first.
Last date to register: 8 January 2026 — avoid server rush by applying early.
Fee payment deadline: 10 January 2026 — pay separately if required.
Item | Date | Action |
Short notice | 4 December 2025 | Record advertisement number |
Registration opens | 9 December 2025 | Begin application at www.drdo.gov.in |
Last date to register | 8 January 2026 | Submit the form and upload documents |
Fee deadline | 10 January 2026 | Complete payment to validate the application |
3. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Total vacancies and post-wise breakup
This section gives a clear snapshot of the seats so you can map your eligibility and pick postcodes confidently.
3.1 Overall seats: 764 vacancies at a glance
The total number of posts is 764. That figure helps you gauge competition and plan your application timeline.
3.2 Senior Technical Assistant-B: 561 posts
There are 561 vacancies for Senior Technical Assistant-B (Group B, Non‑Gazetted, Non‑Ministerial).
These posts suit graduates and diploma holders across multiple engineering and science disciplines.
3.3 Technician-A: 203 posts
Technician‑A offers 203 seats (Group C, Non‑Gazetted, Non‑Ministerial).
These roles target ITI/NTC/NAC-qualified candidates in various trades and practical skill streams.
Exact category‑wise distribution (UR/EWS/OBC/SC/ST) and post codes appear in the full notification.
Align your highest qualification with the post code to improve selection chances.
Both cadres follow standardized pay matrices and allowances for central government service.
Post Category | Number of Seats | Notes |
Senior Technical Assistant-B | 561 | Group B, for B.Sc./Diploma holders; post codes vary by discipline |
Technician-A | 203 | Group C, for ITI/NTC/NAC trades, includes trade/skill test |
Total (drdo ceptam) | 764 | Final seat matrix and category breakup in the official notification |
Save the official notification PDF for full details and post‑wise breakdown. You can shortlist preferred posts once the category-wise matrix is released.
4. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Eligibility criteria
Eligibility hinges on exact education and trade credentials—verify yours before you apply. Read each item carefully so you match the right post code and avoid rejection during document verification.
4.1 STA‑B: accepted degrees and diplomas
You must hold a relevant bachelor's degree in science or a recognized diploma in engineering/technology/computer science. Your program should be AICTE‑recognized or equivalent.
Accepted streams include Mechanical, Electrical & Electronics, Computer Science, Civil, Metallurgy, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Agriculture, Zoology, Botany, and more.
Some posts accept both a bachelor's degree in science and a diploma in the same discipline (for example, Electronics).
Medical Lab Technology can be met via B.Sc. (MLT) or 10+2 with a 2‑year MLT diploma plus experience—check the codes.
4.2 Tech‑A: trade and certificate requirements
Tech‑A requires a 10th pass plus ITI/NTC/NAC in a matching trade. Where an ITI issues a one‑year certificate, that will be acceptable if the course aligns with the post.
Common approved trades: Fitter, Electrician, Mechanic (Diesel), Refrigeration & AC, CNC Operator, Carpenter, Welder, Turner, Photographer, COPA, and others.
Ensure your issuing institute and certificate are valid during verification.
Organize your degree, diploma, and trade certificates early. Match your credentials to the exact post code in the official DRDO CEPTAM notice so your application proceeds smoothly with fewer delays.
Tip: If you need fine‑grained clarifications, consult the full notification for post‑wise conditions and equivalency clauses before finalizing the form for CEPTAM Recruitment 2025.
5. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Age limit and relaxation
Age rules affect your eligibility — read the cut‑off and relaxation details with care. These limits decide whether you can apply for a given post, so verify them against your date of birth and category certificates.
5.1 Minimum and maximum age as per the official notice
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for either STA‑B or Tech‑A. That is the universal baseline for eligibility.
Sources differ on the upper limit. One source lists a maximum of 28 years for all posts. Result, Bharat notes the age as on 08-01-2026 as: 25 years for STA‑B and 28 years for Tech‑A.
Check the final notification to confirm which cap applies to the post you choose and use the notified date to calculate your age precisely.
5.2 Category-wise relaxations as per the Government of India rules
Reserved categories get age relaxation according to the central rules. Typical examples include SC/ST, OBC‑NCL, PwBD, and Ex‑Servicemen.
Keep the original category certificates ready to claim any relaxation.
Upload and present documents that match the central format and issue date requirements.
Incorrect age entries or missing proof can lead to disqualification even if you otherwise qualify.
Item | Typical value | Action |
Minimum age | 18 years | Have the 10th class or birth certificate ready |
Maximum age (varies) | 25/28 years (check notice) | Calculate age as on the notified date |
Category relaxations | As per the GOI rules | Upload valid SC/ST/OBC‑NCL/PwBD proof |
6. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: How to apply online
Start your online application by visiting the official portal and using the Careers/Recruitment menu to find the CEPTAM 11 apply link. This guide shows the step-by-step process so you can finish the form without errors.
6.1 Step-by-step registration and form submission
Visit www.drdo.gov.in and click Careers > Recruitment to locate CEPTAM 11.
Register with your name, email, and mobile number. Save the User ID and Password sent by SMS/email.
Log in to complete the application: enter personal details, education, and choose the correct postcode.
Upload a recent passport photo, signature, and your degree/diploma/ITI/NTC/NAC certificates. Add category or NOC documents if needed.
Pay the fee online via net banking, UPI, credit/debit card, or e-challan as available. Fees are non‑refundable.
Submit the form and download the confirmation page and saved PDF for future verification.
6.2 Common mistakes to avoid before you hit submit
Do not skip verifying name, date of birth, category, post code, or contact details; errors cause rejection.
Check file sizes and formats to prevent failed uploads or blurred scans.
Avoid using public computers for payment to reduce session timeouts and duplicate charges.
Submit early to avoid payment gateway congestion and to allow time for re-uploads if needed.
7. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Documents Required
Prepare all your scans before you open the online form to avoid last‑minute delays. Having files ready speeds up the application and reduces upload errors on the website.
7.1 Photo, signature, and ID proofs: format and size tips
Use a recent passport‑size photograph with a plain background. Scan your signature clearly and keep both in the portal's pixel and file‑size limits.
Keep a government photo ID (Aadhaar or Voter ID) ready for identity checks. Ensure each image is upright, high‑contrast, and not password‑protected.
7.2 Education, category, and NOC documents checklist
Keep your 10th certificate or mark sheet handy as primary DOB proof. For STA‑B, scan your B.Sc. degree or diploma so institute name, trade, and passing year are legible.
For Tech‑A, upload your ITI/NTC/NAC certificate with clear trade details. Also include category certificates (SC/ST/OBC‑NCL/EWS/PwBD) in the required central format to claim benefits.
Obtain a No Objection Certificate if you are employed in government service.
Name files sensibly (for example, YourName_Degree.pdf) and keep cloud backups for quick re‑upload.
Verify that all document details match your form entries to avoid discrepancies at verification — this step is critical for the smooth processing of your DRDO CEPTAM application.
Document | Purpose | Format tips |
Photo & Signature | ID verification | Plain background, correct pixels, small JPG/PNG |
Degree / Diploma / ITI | Educational proof | PDF, legible text, institute name visible |
10th Certificate & ID | DOB & identity | Scanned copy, not password protected |
8. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Application fee and payment modes
Know the exact fee details and payment channels before you start the application. This helps you avoid mistakes and complete the process on the official website smoothly.
Fee for General/OBC/EWS: If you belong to General, OBC, or EWS, the application fee is Rs. 100. Women, SC/ST, PwD, and Ex‑Servicemen are fully exempted from the fee. Fees once paid are non‑refundable, so confirm your eligibility before you pay.
8.1 Secure online payment options
You can pay using credit/debit cards, net banking, or UPI. The portal may also allow e‑challan as a backup option. Use the same browser session for the form and payment to reduce session conflicts.
8.2 Payment tips and refund policy
Save the transaction reference number and download the confirmation page immediately after payment.
Wait for the portal status to update instead of repeatedly refreshing to avoid duplicate charges.
Keep bank SMS and email alerts enabled to track payment confirmations.
Remember: the fee is non‑refundable under any circumstances. Upload valid exemption proof if you claim a waiver.
Complete payment well before the deadline (10 January 2026) to avoid gateway congestion.
Category | Amount | Payment modes |
General / OBC / EWS | Rs. 100 | Credit/Debit card, Net banking, UPI, e‑challan (if available) |
Women / SC / ST / PwD / Ex‑Servicemen | Exempted | Upload valid proof to claim exemption |
Refund | Not applicable | Fees are non‑refundable; verify details before you pay |
9. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Selection process
The selection route breaks into clear stages so you can plan time and practice precisely. You will face screening first, then a decisive stage that ranks successful candidates. Track official announcements for admit cards, exam city details, and test‑day rules.
9.1 STA-B: two CBT stages
CBT 1 acts as a screening test to filter candidates. Focus on speed and broad coverage to clear cutoffs.
CBT 2 is the selection exam where deeper technical knowledge matters. Performance here shapes the final merit list.
9.2 Tech-A: CBT 1 plus Trade/Skill Test
Tech‑A candidates take CBT 1 first. Qualified applicants then appear for a Trade/Skill Test tailored to their trade.
Plan separate strategies for the screening and selection phases.
Use mock tests that mimic time pressure and question mix for both stages.
Prepare documents and expect biometric checks at skill tests or later stages.
Focus on non‑tech subjects plus your trade or discipline topics aligned with post codes.
Stage | Purpose | What to focus on |
CBT 1 | Screening | Speed, broad syllabus |
CBT 2 / Trade Test | Final selection | Depth, practical skill |
Verification | Document & biometric checks | Original IDs and certificates |
10. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Exam pattern and duration
Get a clear blueprint of both CBT formats so your prep focuses on what's scored most. Below are the core details you need to plan practice, timing, and topic weightage for the upcoming DRDO CEPTAM exam process.
STA‑B CBT 1 structure: sections, questions, and timing
The STA‑B CBT 1 contains 120 questions across Quantitative Ability/Aptitude, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, English (basic), and General Science.
Total time is 90 minutes, so you must prioritize speed and accuracy while moving between verbal, reasoning, and numeric items.
Tech‑A CBT 1 structure: Section A and Section B weightage
Tech‑A CBT 1 divides into two parts: Section A (40 questions on aptitude, reasoning, GA, and English) and Section B (80 trade/discipline questions).
Both sections together run for 90 minutes, which means you should balance quick attempts on non‑tech questions with deeper, focused answers for your trade.
120 questions in 90 minutes for STA‑B — train for high attempt rates with low error counts.
Tech‑A: 40 non‑tech + 80 trade questions — allocate time to your strengths first.
Use mixed-topic mock tests to simulate switching between sections and improve stamina.
Create concise formula sheets and trade notes for last-minute revision.
Paper | Questions | Duration |
STA‑B CBT 1 | 120 (mixed subjects) | 90 minutes |
Tech‑A CBT 1 | 40 (Section A) + 80 (Section B) | 90 minutes |
Tip: Track official updates for the marking scheme and language options. Use past ceptam patterns as a guide, but stay flexible for any changes in the final notification.
11. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: DRDO CEPTAM-11 syllabus
Focus your study time on high-yield topics that recur across past papers to lift your overall score quickly. Short, steady practice beats long, unfocused hours.
11.1 Non-tech subjects: English, GA, Reasoning, Quant
English prep should target grammar, comprehension, vocabulary, and error spotting. Use short passages and daily vocab drills.
General Awareness needs current affairs, economic highlights, awards, and important days. Read concise monthly compilations.
Reasoning practice should include series, coding-decoding, directions, clocks, and visual puzzles. Do timed sets daily.
Quant covers percentages, ratios, time & work, speed, interest, simplification, and DI. Solve quick quizzes to build accuracy.
11.2 Trade and discipline-specific coverage
Map your chosen postcode to core topics. For STA‑B, refresh engineering fundamentals and practical theory tied to your degree. For Tech‑A, focus on tool use, safety, measurements, and standard workshop tasks to clear the selection stage.
Subject | Core Topics | Study Tip | Time (per week) |
English | Grammar, Comprehension | Daily 20-min passages | 3–4 hrs |
General Awareness | Current affairs, Economy | Monthly briefs + flashcards | 2–3 hrs |
Trade / Engineering | Tools, Circuits, Mechanics | Hands-on practice + past papers | 6–8 hrs |
Tip: Simulate the 90‑minute DRDO CEPTAM exam with mixed-topic mocks and keep concise formula cards and your certificate list ready for verification. Align this plan with ceptam recruitment 2025 updates.
12. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Salary and pay level
Understanding pay bands and allowances helps you plan relocation, savings, and career growth. Here’s a compact view of what to expect if you clear the selection and join the labs.
12.1 Pay Matrix: Level-6 (STA-B) and Level-3 (Tech-A)
You’ll earn a central government salary under the 7th CPC. Senior technical posts fall in Level‑6 with a pay scale of Rs. 35,400–1,12,400. Technician‑A posts sit at Level‑3 with Rs. 19,900–63,200.
12.2 Allowances and growth outlook in defence research
Standard allowances are payable as per rules: dearness allowance (DA), house rent allowance (HRA), transport allowance (TA), and medical benefits based on the posting city and entitlement.
You’ll be covered under the National Pension System (NPS) with gratuity and retirement benefits as per norms.
Periodic increments and career progression come through experience, departmental exams, and performance.
Work in defence research development environments gives hands‑on exposure, training, and cross‑functional projects that boost your technical profile.
Your take‑home will vary by city class (HRA) and allowances—plan finances accordingly before relocating.
Post | Pay Level | Pay Scale (INR) |
Senior Technical (senior technical) | Level‑6 | 35,400–1,12,400 |
Technician‑A | Level‑3 | 19,900–63,200 |
Common benefits | — | DA, HRA, TA, Medical, NPS, Gratuity |
Tip: Compare expected gross and net pay using your city class and likely HRA. This helps you judge the job offer against other posts and supports smarter financial planning.
13. DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2025: Admit card, exam date, and result updates timeline
Keep a close eye on the website for admit card uploads and official date announcements. Current status shows admit cards and exam dates as “Notify Later,” so check notifications often.
CBT 1 dates will be released first, especially for Tech‑A candidates. STA‑B candidates should expect CBT 2 dates after screening results are published.
Download your admit card from www.drdo.gov.in using your User ID and Password; save a printed copy.
Read the admit card carefully for the test city, reporting time, gate closing time, and allowed items.
Ensure the photo ID you bring matches the name on your application and admit card to avoid entry issues.
Plan travel and accommodation once the test city is confirmed, and make so you arrive early and calm on exam day.
Watch the notification area for any changes to dates or venues due to administrative reasons.
Keep your registered email and mobile active to receive SMS/email alerts for critical updates.
After the results post, download scorecards and keep your confirmation page ready for document verification and any skill tests (for Tech‑A).
Item | Where to check | Action |
Admit card | Official website - Notification / Login | Download with User ID, carry printed copy |
Exam dates | Notification section on the portal | Note CBT 1 (Tech‑A) and CBT 2 (STA‑B) timelines |
Results & scorecard | Official website - Results page | Download, verify marks, and prepare documents |
14. Important links: official website, notification, and apply online
Access all official updates and apply online only through the official website: www.drdo.gov.in. This portal hosts the careers and recruitment pages where live links appear.
The Apply Online link is expected to go live on 09-12-2025. You can download the detailed notification PDF on or after that date to verify eligibility, age limits, and post codes.
Keep these dates in your calendar: short notice published on 04-12-2025, last date to complete registration is 08-01-2026, and fee payment cut-off is 10-01-2026. Missing any deadline may void your application.
Find Apply Online under Careers > Recruitment on the website.
Bookmark the portal and check it often for the admit card and result updates.
Avoid third-party links; rely on the official pages for accurate application details and downloads.
Keep your login credentials handy to edit, track, or print your application and admit card when available.
Share the authentic links with peers so they also use the verified portal.
Item | Where | Key date |
Short notice | Official website | 04-12-2025 |
Apply Online & notification | Careers / Recruitment page | From 09-12-2025 |
Registration & fee | Application dashboard | Register by 08-01-2026; pay by 10-01-2026 |
Conclusion
To close, plan to act swiftly, verify all details, and start targeted preparation for the exam.
You’re looking at a time‑bound chance to join the research development organisation network with 764 openings (561 STA‑B, 203 Tech‑A). Registration opens 9 December 2025; finish forms by 8 January 2026, and pay fees by 10 January 2026.
Prepare for a CBT‑led selection: STA‑B uses two CBTs while Tech‑A follows CBT‑1 plus a Trade/Skill Test. Aim for daily practice on non‑tech and trade topics to build confidence for the DRDO CEPTAM and the DRDO CEPTAM recruitment process.
Apply only via the official portal, keep document scans and payment proof handy, and stay disciplined. This is a strong chance to join defence research teams — start now and stay focused.