The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has released the official notification for NSTL Apprenticeship 2026. The recruitment is conducted by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam. A total of 42 apprentice vacancies are available for candidates with B.E./B.Tech, Diploma, and ITI qualifications.
This is an excellent opportunity for fresh candidates to gain experience in a prestigious defence research organization. The application process is completely online, and the last date to apply is 25 May 2026.
Overview of DRDO NSTL Recruitment 2026
- Organization: DRDO – Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL)
- Post Name: Apprentice (Graduate, Diploma, ITI)
- Total Vacancies: 42 posts
- Training Duration: 12 months
- Job Location: Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
- Application Mode: Online + Email Submission
- Last Date to Apply: 25 May 2026
- Official Website: drdo.gov.in
Vacancy Details
The 42 posts are divided into three categories:
- Graduate Apprentice (B.E./B.Tech): 10 posts
- Technician Apprentice (Diploma): 10 posts
- Technician (Vocational) Apprentice (ITI): 22 posts
Eligible Branches & Trades
For Graduate Apprentice (B.Tech/B.E.)
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science Engineering
- Electronics & Communication Engineering
- Electrical & Electronics Engineering
For Diploma Apprentice
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electrical & Electronics
- Electronics & Instrumentation
- DCCP (Computer Practice)
For ITI Apprentice
- Electrician
- Fitter
- Electronics
- COPA
- Diesel Mechanic
- Photographer
- Stenographer
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Candidates must have completed B.Tech, Diploma, or ITI in relevant fields
- Qualification must be from a recognized institute
Year of Passing
- Only candidates who passed in 2023, 2024, or 2025 are eligible
Experience
- Candidates with more than 1 year of work experience are not eligible
- Candidates who have already completed apprenticeship cannot apply
Age Limit
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum age is not clearly specified
Stipend Details
Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend as per Government of India rules:
- Graduate Apprentice – As per NATS norms
- Diploma Apprentice – As per NATS norms
- ITI Apprentice – As per NAPS norms
💡 The stipend is paid through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to your bank account.
Selection Process
The selection process is simple and merit-based:
- Shortlisting based on academic marks
- Written Test (if required)
- Interview (if required)
- Document Verification
- Medical Fitness Check
There is no guarantee of a job after training, but the experience certificate from DRDO is very valuable.
How to Apply for DRDO NSTL Apprentice 2026
Follow these steps carefully:
- Register on the appropriate portal:
- NATS Portal (for B.Tech & Diploma)
- Apprenticeship India (NAPS) (for ITI)
- Apply for NSTL apprenticeship on the portal
- Download and fill the Annexure-A application form
- Scan and email the application along with documents to:
📧 admin2.dept.nstl@gov.in - Submit before 25 May 2026
Documents Required
- 10th Marksheet (DOB proof)
- Degree/Diploma/ITI certificates
- Aadhaar Card
- Bank details
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs
- Medical fitness certificate
Important Dates
- Application Start Date: 4 May 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 25 May 2026
- Training Duration: 1 year
Application Fee
- All Categories: No Fee (Free application)
Why You Should Apply
- Work with DRDO, India’s top defence research organization
- Gain real experience in naval and defence technology
- Strong value for future PSU and government jobs
- No application fee
- Simple selection process
Important Links
- DRDO Official Website: https://drdo.gov.in
- NATS Portal: https://nats.education.gov.in
- Apprenticeship Portal: https://www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in