DIO iDEAL Internship Program 2026Open

• Indian citizens with the specified qualification from a recognized university are generally eligible.
• Applicants may be final-year undergraduate students or graduates who completed a science or engineering/technology degree in the year of application.
• Postgraduate students who are pursuing their course or graduated in the year of application may apply if they have the applicable bachelor's qualification.
• Candidates who have undergone or are undergoing NATS or NAPS apprenticeship training at another establishment or organization are not eligible.
• Check the official notice for discipline-specific eligibility.

• Open the official iDEAL internship online application form.
• Students should obtain the No Objection Certificate in the Annexure 1 format, where applicable.
• Submit the application online by 30 November 2026. Applications sent through other modes will not be considered.

About the program

The Defence Innovation Organisation, through iDEX, is accepting applications for the iDEX Defence Exploration and Learning (iDEAL) Internship Program. The program offers practical exposure to managing projects involving niche technology development in defence and aerospace. It is an internship, not a job or an assurance of employment with the Authority.

Eligibility and restrictions

The program is generally open to Indian citizens with the specified qualification from a recognized university. Eligible applicants include final-year undergraduate students and candidates who completed a science or engineering/technology degree in the application year. Postgraduate students pursuing their course or graduating in the application year may apply if they hold the applicable bachelor's qualification. The notice should be checked for discipline-specific requirements.

Applicants must not exceed 26 years of age on 30 November 2026. Those who have undergone or are undergoing NATS or NAPS apprenticeship training at another establishment or organization are ineligible. False information, suppression of facts or canvassing can lead to disqualification.

Stipend and working arrangements

The monthly stipend is ₹30,000 for a six-month internship and ₹20,000 for a three-month internship. The maximum duration may be extended according to need. Interns who complete the program are eligible for an experience certificate from iDEX/MoD.

Interns must attend in person at the DIO office in New Delhi. Office hours are 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Friday. In addition to official holidays, the notice provides six days of leave for the six-month program and three days for the three-month program.

How to apply

Applications are accepted only through the official online form. Students should obtain an NOC from their institution, where applicable, in the Annexure 1 format; it must be on institutional letterhead and signed by the HOD or Principal. The tentative application deadline is 30 November 2026, and the tentative commencement date is 4 January 2027. The notice does not specify a vacancy count or application fee.