DRDO Paid Internship 2026–27: Eligibility, Stipend, Important Dates and How to Apply

Are you a science or engineering student looking for a paid research internship in India? The Defence Research and Development Establishment (DRDE), Gwalior, under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has announced its Paid Internship Scheme for 2026–27.

This opportunity is intended for eligible undergraduate and postgraduate students who want exposure to research and development activities in a defence research organisation.

Applications are open until 14 November 2026. Here is everything you need to know about the internship, including eligibility criteria, stipend, important dates, and the application process.

DRDO DRDE Gwalior Internship 2026–27: Overview

The official DRDO vacancies portal lists the advertisement under the DRDE Gwalior paid internship scheme. Applicants should refer to the official notification for the complete terms and conditions.

Internship Vacancies and Eligible Disciplines

The scheme lists opportunities across three broad disciplines: Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences, and Engineering.

1. Biological Sciences

Students pursuing an M.Sc. or equivalent in the third or fourth semester, or a relevant B.Tech programme in the seventh or eighth semester, may be eligible.

Relevant subjects include:

• Biotechnology

• Microbiology

• Pharmacology

• Toxicology

• Immunology

2. Chemical Sciences

Students pursuing an M.Sc. or equivalent in Chemistry in the third or fourth semester may apply, subject to the prescribed eligibility requirements.

Relevant specialisations include:

• Organic Chemistry

• Inorganic Chemistry

• Analytical Chemistry

3. Engineering

Students pursuing B.E. or B.Tech in the seventh or eighth semester in the following disciplines may be eligible:

• Computer Science

• Information Technology

• Electronics Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

The notification specifies the eligible courses and semesters. Students should check the official advertisement to confirm that their particular programme meets the requirements.

DRDO Internship 2026–27: Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must satisfy the prescribed eligibility conditions before applying.

Nationality

Applicants must be Indian citizens.

Age Limit

Candidates must be below 28 years of age as of 14 November 2026.

Academic Requirements

Applicants must have a good academic record, with at least 75% marks or a CGPA of 7.5 or above, from an AICTE- or UGC-approved college or university.

College Referral or Sponsorship Letter

A recent referral or sponsorship letter from the candidate's college or university is required. Students should contact their institution in advance to arrange this document.

Eligible Academic Background

Applicants must be currently pursuing an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate programme in one of the specified disciplines and semesters.

Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection. Applications will be screened, and an interaction by telephone or video conference may be conducted if required.

DRDO Internship Stipend and Duration

Selected interns will receive a stipend of ₹5,000 per month.

For the minimum six-month internship period, the total stipend amounts to ₹30,000.

• Monthly stipend: ₹5,000

• Minimum duration: 6 months

• Total stipend over six months: ₹30,000

• Tentative commencement: 1 January 2027

The internship is intended to provide students with exposure to research and development activities. Candidates should review the official notification for the applicable stipend payment schedule and other conditions.

Important Dates

Applicants should keep the following dates in mind:

The selection and commencement dates are tentative and may be subject to change. Check the official DRDO website for updates.

Documents Required for Application

Prepare the required documents before submitting your application. The expected document checklist includes:

• Completed application form in the prescribed format

• Updated CV or resume

• Academic certificates and mark sheets

• Recent passport-size photograph

• Identity proof, as specified in the notification

• Required bank account details

• College or university referral/sponsorship letter

• Any required undertakings mentioned in the official advertisement

Check the official application form and notification for the exact list, prescribed formats, and attestation requirements.

How to Apply for the DRDO Paid Internship 2026–27

Follow these steps to submit your application:

1. Visit the official DRDO vacancies portal.

2. Find the advertisement titled “DRDE, Gwalior invites applications for paid internship scheme of DRDO.”

3. Open Advertisement No. DRDE/HRD/Paid Intern/2026/03.

4. Read the eligibility requirements and instructions carefully.

5. Download and complete the prescribed application form.

6. Attach the required academic documents, CV, identity documents, and college referral or sponsorship letter.

7. Submit the application by email or Speed Post, following the exact instructions and address given in the official notification.

8. Keep a copy of the submitted application and supporting documents for reference.

Official DRDO vacancies portal: https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/offerings/vacancies/

The notification lists the DRDE Gwalior contact email addresses as [email protected] and [email protected]. Confirm the required submission method and recipient details in the current advertisement before sending your application.

Important Things to Know Before Applying

Before applying, keep these points in mind:

• Accommodation and boarding or lodging are not provided.

• Travel expenses for joining are not provided.

• Selection depends on screening and the prescribed eligibility criteria.

• Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further interaction or an internship offer.

• Applicants must follow the conditions and instructions specified by DRDE.

• Completing the internship does not guarantee employment or absorption into DRDO.

Read the official notification carefully to understand all applicable rules and obligations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the last date to apply for the DRDO DRDE Gwalior internship?

The last date to submit the application is 14 November 2026.

2. What is the stipend for the DRDO internship?

The stipend is ₹5,000 per month. Over six months, this amounts to ₹30,000.

3. How long is the internship?

The minimum internship duration is six months.

4. Which students can apply?

Eligible students include those pursuing specified M.Sc. programmes in Biological Sciences or Chemistry and relevant B.E./B.Tech programmes in the prescribed semesters.

5. Is a college sponsorship letter required?

Yes. A recent referral or sponsorship letter from the candidate's college or university is required.

6. Does DRDO provide accommodation?

Accommodation and boarding or lodging are not provided under the scheme. Applicants should check the official notification for the complete terms.

7. Does meeting the eligibility criteria guarantee selection?

No. Applications are screened, and further interaction may be conducted if required.

Conclusion

The DRDO DRDE Gwalior Paid Internship Scheme 2026–27 offers eligible science and engineering students an opportunity to gain research exposure through a minimum six-month internship with a stipend of ₹5,000 per month.

If your academic background matches the prescribed requirements, review the official advertisement, arrange your college sponsorship letter, and prepare your application documents before the deadline of 14 November 2026.

For the latest internship opportunities, career updates, and exam-related information, follow TestKart and check official notifications before applying.

Official source: DRDO Vacancies Portal

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes. Dates, eligibility requirements, and application instructions should be verified against the official DRDO notification before submission.