If you’ve recently finished your Engineering, Diploma, or ITI and want to add a world-class name like DRDO to your profile, the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam is calling.
NSTL is the lab responsible for India’s underwater “predators”—torpedoes and naval mines. They have just released their 2026 Apprentice notification for 42 seats, and the best part is that for most candidates, selection is based directly on your marks. No heavy-duty entrance exam, no application fee—just your merit.
Why Vizag? Why NSTL?
Visakhapatnam isn’t just a beautiful port city; it’s the heart of India’s Eastern Naval Command. Training at NSTL gives you a behind-the-scenes look at high-tech naval defense systems that very few civilians ever see.
| Category | Vacancies | Education Required |
| Graduate Apprentices | 10 | B.E/B.Tech (Mech, CS, ECE, EEE) |
| Diploma Apprentices | 10 | Diploma (CS, EEE, Mech, E&I) |
| ITI Apprentices | 22 | COPA, Fitter, Electrician, Diesel Mech |
The “Pass-Out Year” Catch
DRDO uses these apprenticeships to train the next generation of technicians and engineers. Because of this, they only accept recent pass-outs.
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Eligible Years: 2023, 2024, and 2025 only.
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Experience: If you’ve already worked for a year or done another apprenticeship elsewhere, you are not eligible. This is strictly for freshers looking for their first big break.
The Secret to a Successful Application
Unlike modern job portals where you just click a button, NSTL uses a “Single PDF Email” system. If you mess up the file format, your application might never reach the selection committee.
The Workflow:
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Register First: You MUST be registered on the NATS 2.0 (for Degree/Diploma) or NAPS (for ITI) portal. Without an Enrollment ID, your application is technically invalid.
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Scan Everything: Form (Annexure-A) + 10th/12th Marksheets + Degree/Diploma + Aadhaar.
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The PDF Rule: Merge all these into ONE single PDF file. Do not send 10 different image attachments.
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Send: Email it to
[email protected].
Important Dates (Don’t Delay!)
The clock started ticking on May 4, 2026 (the official portal publication date). You have a very short window to get your email in.
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Last Date to Apply: May 25, 2026
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Training Start: Expected to begin shortly after the merit list is released.
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Duration: 12 Months of rigorous on-the-job training.
Reality Check: Will I Get a Job After?
The Ground Truth: Let’s be real—a DRDO apprenticeship does not mean you are now a permanent scientist. However, it gives you a massive advantage when applying for CEPTAM (DRDO’s regular recruitment) or private defense contractors like L&T or BrahMos. The security clearance and “Official Secrets Act” experience you gain here is a badge of honor in the tech world.
FAQ
Q: What is the monthly stipend?
A: You’ll be paid as per the National Apprenticeship Act. Generally, it’s around ₹9,000 for Graduates, ₹8,000 for Diploma holders, and ₹7,000+ for ITI trades.
Q: Can I apply if I live outside Andhra Pradesh?
A: Yes! This is a “Pan India” recruitment. However, since the work is in Visakhapatnam, you’ll need to manage your own stay in the city as no boarding is provided.
Q: Do I need a GATE score?
A: No. Selection is primarily based on your degree/diploma marks.
Apply now and start your 2026 with a DRDO internship on your CV!