DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27: 41 Vacancies at Nasik — Graduate & Diploma | ₹12,300 Stipend

Last Updated: 5 July 2026

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has officially released the DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27 notification through its Advanced Centre for Energetic Materials (ACEM) at Ojhar, Nasik, Maharashtra. This is a one-year apprenticeship programme offering 41 total vacancies — 30 for Graduate Apprentices and 11 for Technician Apprentices (Diploma) — across Chemical, Mechanical, Aerospace, Computer Science, Electrical, Electronics, Physics, Chemistry, Commerce, and Library Science disciplines.

Selected apprentices will receive a monthly stipend of ₹12,300 (Graduate) and ₹10,900 (Technician) while working at one of DRDO’s most advanced composite propellant processing facilities. This is a rare opportunity for 2024, 2025, and 2026 pass-out students to gain direct exposure to India’s defence research ecosystem, specifically in energetic materials, missile propulsion systems, and advanced chemical processing technologies.

Unlike many DRDO internships that are short-term, this is a full one-year apprenticeship under the Apprentices Act 1961, making it significantly more valuable for students targeting long-term government research careers, PSU jobs, or GATE-based recruitment.

Students looking for shorter research exposure can also explore our DRDO Internship 2026 guide covering DMSRDE Kanpur, ARDE Pune, LRDE Bangalore, and HEMRL Pune opportunities.

For engineering graduates aiming for permanent DRDO scientist positions, this apprenticeship provides unmatched brand value and laboratory exposure that directly strengthens profiles for DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026 and other Government Jobs Through GATE 2026.

DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27 Highlights

Looking for more DRDO opportunities? Check our complete DRDO Jobs 2026 section covering Scientist B, RAC, and internship openings.

Why This DRDO Apprenticeship Is Different From Internships

Most students confuse DRDO internships with DRDO apprenticeships. While both offer valuable exposure, the ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27 is fundamentally different:

The one-year duration and Apprentices Act compliance make this significantly more credible for students targeting PSU Engineering Jobs 2026 or Government Jobs After BTech 2026.

Students who missed the DMSRDE internship deadline can still apply for this ACEM apprenticeship. Also explore DRDO ARDE Paid Internship 2026 and DRDO LRDE Paid Internship 2026 for alternative DRDO lab opportunities.

About ACEM Nasik — DRDO’s Premier Energetic Materials Lab

The Advanced Centre for Energetic Materials (ACEM) at Ojhar, Nasik is one of DRDO’s most specialized laboratories. It operates as a state-of-the-art composite propellant processing facility responsible for research, development, and processing of energetic materials used in:

• Missile propulsion systems
• Rocket motors
• Advanced explosives
• Pyrotechnic devices
• High-energy materials for defence applications

Working at ACEM means direct exposure to: – Chemical processing of propellants – Quality control of energetic materials – Safety protocols for high-energy substances – Advanced manufacturing processes for defence applications

For Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Aerospace Engineering students, this is arguably one of the most technically valuable apprenticeships available in India’s defence sector.

Chemical engineers should also explore Government Jobs for Civil Engineers 2026 and our Technical Government Jobs 2026 guide for broader career options.

Vacancy Details

Graduate Apprentice Vacancies (30 Posts) — ₹12,300/month

Mechanical and Electronics engineers should also check Government Jobs for Mechanical Engineers 2026 and Government Jobs for Electronics Engineers 2026 for permanent positions.

Technician Apprentice Vacancies (11 Posts) — ₹10,900/month

Diploma holders looking for permanent PSU roles should explore Government Jobs Without GATE 2026 for opportunities that don’t require GATE qualification.

Reservation Policy

Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC-NCL categories must submit caste certificates in the prescribed format issued by competent authority at the time of application.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

For Graduate Apprentice: – B.E / B.Tech / B.Sc / B.Com / BLIS degree in the relevant discipline from a recognized university/institution – First Class or equivalent preferred (implied by merit-based selection)

For Technician Apprentice: – Diploma in the relevant engineering discipline from a recognized polytechnic/institution

Pass-Out Year Restriction (Critical)

Only fresh pass-out candidates from 2024, 2025, and 2026 can apply.

This is a strict condition. Candidates who graduated before 2024 are NOT eligible regardless of other qualifications.

Experience Restriction (Critical)

Graduate/Diploma holders with training or job experience of ONE YEAR or more after attaining the essential qualification are NOT eligible.

This means: – ✅ Fresh graduates with no experience — Eligible – ✅ Candidates with less than 1 year experience — Check notification carefully – ❌ Candidates with 1+ years of job/training experience — Ineligible

Age Limit

The official notification does not specify an upper age limit for apprenticeship. However, since this is under the Apprentices Act 1961, standard apprenticeship age norms (typically 14–28 years) may apply implicitly. Candidates should verify during application if any age-related query arises.

Stipend Structure

Note: The stipend is fixed as per apprenticeship norms. No additional allowances (HRA, DA, TA) are provided. ACEM does NOT provide quarters, hostel accommodation, or transportation during the training period.

Selection Process

The selection will be conducted by the Apprentice Selection Committee at ACEM Nasik:

Important: Only selected candidates will be informed. No separate rejection communication will be sent.

How to Apply for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Register on NATS 2.0 Portal

Before applying, ALL candidates must register on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS 2.0) portal:

🔗 https://nats.education.gov.in

• Complete your profile
• Obtain your NATS 2.0 Registration/Enrollment Number
• This number is mandatory for the ACEM application form

Step 2: Download & Fill the Application Form

• Download the official application form from the ACEM notification
• Type all details — handwritten forms may be rejected
• Affix a recent passport-size photograph
• Sign in the designated area
• Fill your NATS 2.0 Registration Number

Step 3: Prepare Scanned Documents

Compile the following into a single PDF file:

Critical: The CGPA-to-Percentage conversion formula document is compulsory. Many students miss this and get rejected. Contact your university’s examination department if you don’t have this.

Step 4: Email Your Application

Send the single PDF to:

📧 apprentice.acem@gov.in

Email Subject Line: Application for Apprenticeship 2026-27 — [Your Name] — [Discipline]

Step 5: Wait for Communication

• All correspondence is electronic only
• Check your email (including SPAM/BULK folders) regularly
• Download and print your own offer letter if selected
• ACEM is not responsible for emails lost due to wrong email IDs or spam filters

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Important Dates

Terms & Conditions

1. No Employment Guarantee: ACEM is not obligated to offer any job after apprenticeship completion. This is purely a training programme.
2. Medical & Police Verification: Selected candidates must submit:
   1. Medical Fitness Certificate
   1. Police Verification Certificate at the time of joining.
3. Contract Execution: Selected candidates must sign a one-year training contract as per the Apprentices Act 1961.
4. Seat Variation: ACEM reserves the right to increase or decrease the number of apprenticeship seats without prior notice.
5. Advertisement Cancellation: ACEM can withdraw or cancel this advertisement without assigning any reason.
6. No Accommodation: Apprentices must arrange their own stay in Nasik. No hostel/quarters/transport provided.
7. Suppression = Disqualification: Any false information at any stage leads to immediate disqualification.

Career Benefits After Completing DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship

1. Direct DRDO Scientist B Advantage

Candidates who complete this apprenticeship gain: – Insider knowledge of DRDO work culture – Laboratory exposure that interview panels value – Scientist recommendations (informal but impactful) – Understanding of defence R&D processes

This directly strengthens applications for DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026 where GATE score (80% weightage) and Interview (20% weightage) decide selection.

2. PSU Job Profile Enhancement

The one-year apprenticeship certificate from DRDO ACEM is highly valued by: – BEL Project Engineer Recruitment 2026 – BEL Trainee Engineer Recruitment 2026 – EIL Associate Engineer Recruitment 2026 – HAL Internship 2026 and HAL permanent posts

3. GATE & Higher Studies Boost

For students planning: – GATE 2027 — Practical propulsion/chemical engineering experience adds depth to technical interviews – M.Tech/MS abroad — DRDO apprenticeship is a strong differentiator in SOPs – PhD in defence research — Direct lab experience counts significantly

4. Private Sector Defence Companies

Companies like: – Tata Advanced Systems – L&T Defence – Adani Defence – Bharat Forge

actively recruit candidates with DRDO laboratory experience for their defence divisions.

Related Opportunities

Candidates interested in DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27 should also explore:

For a complete list of government internships across all sectors, visit our Government Internships 2026 pillar page.

FAQs: DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27

1. What is the total number of vacancies in DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27?

A total of 41 vacancies have been announced — 30 Graduate Apprentice posts and 11 Technician Apprentice (Diploma) posts across multiple disciplines at ACEM Nasik.

2. What is the stipend for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27?

• Graduate Apprentices: ₹12,300 per month
• Technician Apprentices (Diploma): ₹10,900 per month

3. Is NATS 2.0 registration mandatory for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship?

Yes, absolutely mandatory. All candidates must register on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS 2.0) portal at https://nats.education.gov.in before applying. Your NATS enrollment number must be filled in the application form.

4. Which pass-out years are eligible for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27?

Only candidates who passed their degree/diploma in 2024, 2025, or 2026 can apply. Earlier pass-outs are not eligible.

5. Can candidates with job experience apply for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship?

No. Candidates with one year or more of training or job experience after attaining the essential qualification are NOT eligible under the Apprentices Act 1961.

6. What is the last date to apply for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27?

The last date to submit the application via email is 26 July 2026.

7. How to apply for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27?

1. Register on NATS 2.0 portal
2. Download and fill the official application form
3. Scan all required documents into a single PDF
4. Email to apprentice.acem@gov.in
5. Do NOT send hard copy

8. Is there any application fee for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship?

No application fee has been mentioned in the official notification.

9. What documents are required for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship application?

• Filled application form with photo and signature
• Class 10 mark sheet
• Degree/Diploma certificate
• All semester mark sheets
• CGPA to Percentage conversion formula (compulsory)
• NATS 2.0 registration proof
• Category certificate (if applicable)

10. Does DRDO ACEM provide accommodation during apprenticeship?

No. ACEM does not provide quarters, hostel accommodation, or transportation. Apprentices must arrange their own stay in Nasik.

11. Will DRDO ACEM offer a permanent job after apprenticeship?

No. As per the Apprentices Act 1961, it is not obligatory on ACEM’s part to offer employment after training completion. However, the experience significantly boosts your profile for DRDO Scientist B and PSU recruitments.

12. Which engineering branches have the highest vacancies in DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship?

Chemical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering have the highest vacancies with 5 posts each under Graduate Apprentice category.

13. Can B.Sc Chemistry and B.Sc Physics students apply?

Yes. B.Sc Chemistry (3 vacancies) and B.Sc Physics (2 vacancies) are explicitly listed under Graduate Apprentice posts.

14. Can B.Com and BLIS students apply for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship?

Yes. B.Com (4 vacancies) and BLIS — Bachelor of Library & Information Science (1 vacancy) are eligible disciplines.

15. What is the selection process for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship?

Selection is based on: 1. Application screening 2. Academic merit (percentage/CGPA) 3. Interview by Apprentice Selection Committee (if required)

Only selected candidates will be informed via email.

16. Is there any age limit for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27?

The notification does not specify an upper age limit. However, standard apprenticeship norms (typically up to 28 years) may apply.

17. Can final-year students awaiting results apply?

The notification specifies 2024, 2025, and 2026 pass-outs. Final-year students of 2026 who have completed their degree and received results can apply. Those awaiting results should verify eligibility before applying.

18. What is the CGPA to Percentage conversion formula and why is it compulsory?

Many universities award CGPA instead of percentage. ACEM requires the official conversion formula adopted by your university/college to standardize academic evaluation across applicants. Contact your university examination department for this document.

19. Can I apply for multiple disciplines in DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship?

The notification does not explicitly prohibit multiple applications, but candidates should apply for the discipline matching their degree/diploma. Applying for mismatched disciplines may lead to rejection.

20. How is DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship different from DRDO DMSRDE Internship?

21. Can diploma holders apply for Graduate Apprentice posts?

No. Diploma holders can only apply for Technician Apprentice posts. Graduate Apprentice requires B.E/B.Tech/B.Sc/B.Com/BLIS degree.

22. What happens if I suppress information in my application?

Suppression of facts will lead to disqualification at any stage of the selection process, including after selection if discovered later.

23. Is canvassing allowed for DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship?

No. Any canvassing or personal follow-up intended to influence the selection process will lead to immediate cancellation of the candidate’s application.

24. Where is DRDO ACEM located?

ACEM is located at Ambe Hill, Ojhar, Nasik — 422207, Maharashtra.

25. Can I contact ACEM for application status?

No individual follow-up is entertained. All communication is electronic. For queries, email apprentice.acem@gov.in only.

Important Links

Why Trust GovtJobDeck?

Disclaimer: GovtJobDeck is an independent job information portal. We are NOT affiliated with DRDO, ACEM, or any government organization. Candidates must verify all details from the official notification before applying. Last date and vacancy numbers are subject to change at the organization’s discretion.

Final Thoughts

The DRDO ACEM Apprenticeship 2026-27 is one of the most valuable apprenticeship opportunities currently open for engineering and science graduates in India. With 41 vacancies, a one-year structured training programme, ₹12,300 monthly stipend, and direct exposure to DRDO’s energetic materials research at Nasik, this apprenticeship stands apart from typical 3–6 month internships.

Key advantages: – ✅ Apprentices Act 1961 backing — stronger certificate value – ✅ Higher stipend than most DRDO internships (₹12,300 vs ₹5,000) – ✅ Chemical & Mechanical Engineering focus — rare in government apprenticeships – ✅ Direct pathway to DRDO Scientist B and PSU jobs – ✅ No application fee and email-only application — accessible to all

Critical action items: 1. Register on NATS 2.0 immediately — this takes time 2. Obtain CGPA-to-Percentage conversion formula from your university 3. Prepare a single PDF with all documents 4. Email to apprentice.acem@gov.in before 26 July 2026

For students targeting long-term careers in defence research, chemical engineering, propulsion systems, or PSU technical roles, missing this apprenticeship would be a significant opportunity loss.

Stay updated with all DRDO opportunities by bookmarking our DRDO Jobs 2026 section and Government Internships 2026 pillar page.