10 Best Defence Exams for Women in India Your Path to a Proud Career Guide by Shield Defence Acdaemy
The 10 Best Defence Exams for Women in India have unlocked countless career opportunities. Whether you’re a science student, a law graduate, a nurse, or someone with a strong desire to serve—there’s a path waiting for you.
Empowering the Women of India through Defence
India’s defence forces are not just about uniforms and weapons—they’re about courage, commitment, and a call to serve the nation. And today, that call is not limited to men. Women across India are now donning uniforms and leading with pride across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
This comprehensive guide, powered by Shield Defence Academy, will walk you through the most prestigious exams for women in defence and help you prepare for a future filled with honor, discipline, and pride.
1. NDA – National Defence Academy: Breaking Barriers
The NDA is a dream destination for every defence aspirant. And since 2021, this dream is open to girls too!
Eligibility for Girls:
Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years
Education: 12th pass with Physics & Maths (for Air Force/Navy)
Must be unmarried
Selection Process:
NDA written exam conducted by UPSC
SSB Interview (5-day personality assessment)
Medical Examination
Training & Career:
After selection, girls undergo 3 years of academic and physical training at NDA Khadakwasla, followed by specialized training in respective academies. On commissioning, you become an officer in the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
2. CDS – Combined Defence Services: Graduate Gateway
The CDS exam is one of the most powerful ways for women graduates to step into the armed forces. It’s conducted twice a year by UPSC.
For Women:
Apply through OTA (Officers Training Academy), Chennai
Age: 19 to 25 years
Graduation in any stream from a recognized university
Opportunities:
Through CDS, you can join the Indian Army under Short Service Commission. Women officers receive world-class training and serve in several key departments including Intelligence, Logistics, and Signals.
3. AFCAT – Your Wings to the Indian Air Force
If you’ve ever dreamed of flying or working with aircraft systems, the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is your flight path.
Branches Open to Women:
Flying Branch (Pilot Training)
Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical)
Eligibility:
Graduate with 60% marks
Age: 19 to 24 (Flying Branch), 26 (Ground Duty)
Why Choose AFCAT?
You get to serve in one of the most elite air forces in the world. Plus, the lifestyle, perks, and salary are among the best in the government sector.
4. MNS – Military Nursing Service: Healing in Uniform
The Military Nursing Service (MNS) is a specialized wing of the Indian Army exclusively for women.
Who Can Apply?
Female candidates who have passed NEET and enrolled in a 4-year B.Sc. Nursing course
Age: 17 to 24 years
Life as a Military Nurse:
MNS officers are commissioned into the Army and serve in military hospitals across India and abroad. It’s a unique blend of medical care and military duty, offering both service and prestige.
5. Territorial Army – Serve in Uniform Without Leaving Your Job
The Territorial Army (TA) offers a chance to work as a civilian and serve as a soldier—yes, both!
Women Can Apply If:
Age: 18 to 42 years
Graduate
Physically and medically fit
Benefits:
You serve part-time in the Army while continuing your civilian profession. It’s a great choice for patriotic professionals who want to contribute without making defence a full-time career.
6. Indian Coast Guard – Assistant Commandant Entry
The Indian Coast Guard protects India’s maritime interests—and women are actively being inducted as Assistant Commandants.
Eligibility:
Age: 21 to 25 years
Bachelor’s degree with minimum 60% marks
Strong swimming skills are preferred
Selection:
Written test, Preliminary Selection Board (PSB), Final Selection Board (FSB), followed by medicals.
It’s one of the most dynamic roles among the 10 Best Defence Exams for Women in India.
7. NCC Special Entry – Straight to SSB
If you’ve been an NCC cadet with a ‘C’ Certificate, the defence services value your training and dedication.
NCC Special Entry for Women:
Apply for Indian Army through OTA
No written exam – direct SSB interview
Requires ‘C’ Certificate with ‘B’ grade or higher
It’s a fast-track way to become an officer and avoid the usual exam grind.
8. SSC Entry – Short Service Commission in Army & Navy
The Short Service Commission (SSC) is a temporary but powerful role in the defence forces, offering women a chance to serve for 10–14 years.
Opportunities for Women:
Army: Engineers, Intelligence, Signals, Judge Advocate, etc.
Navy: Logistics, Air Traffic Control, Law, and Education
With changing policies, women may also be eligible for permanent commission in future.
9. JAG Entry – Legal Professionals in Uniform
Law graduates can enter the defence forces through the JAG (Judge Advocate General) entry.
Eligibility:
LLB Degree with at least 55%
Must be registered with Bar Council of India
Age: 21 to 27 years
Role:
You’ll handle military legal matters, courts-martial, contracts, and serve as a legal advisor in the Indian Army.
10. SSB Interview – The Common Final Frontier
Whether you’re going through NDA, CDS, AFCAT, or NCC entry, your final hurdle is the SSB Interview—a rigorous 5-day personality and intelligence assessment.
What’s Tested:
Leadership skills
Communication
Group dynamics
Mental & physical strength
Psychological assessments
Special Tips for Women:
SSB doesn’t favor gender—it favors readiness. Confidence, clarity of thought, and calm decision-making are key. Shield Defence Academy runs specialized SSB preparation batches for women with mock tests, GTO training, and interview simulations.
Why Shield Defence Academy comes under 10 Best Defence Exams for Women in India
Located in Lucknow, Shield Defence Academy has built a strong reputation for coaching girls who aspire to serve in defence forces.
What Makes It Special:
Exclusive women-only batches
Female instructors for better comfort & understanding
Hostel facility with round-the-clock security
Expert-led physical training and SSB mentoring
In-depth current affairs & aptitude sessions
At Shield, it’s not just about clearing an exam—it’s about preparing for a lifestyle of honour and responsibility.
Conclusion: Build a Career Worth Wearing a Uniform For 10 Best Defence Exams for Women in India
The 10 Best Defence Exams for Women in India are more than entry points—they are the beginning of a legacy. Whether it’s flying jets, commanding troops, serving in courts, or healing the wounded—there’s a space for you.
With guidance from Shield Defence Academy, your preparation will not just be strong—it will be unstoppable.
Are you ready to wear that uniform? Because your country is ready for you!
