As someone passionate about science, defence, and cutting-edge tech, doing an internship at DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) was high on my list. The idea of working in real defence labs on actual research projects — not just dummy tasks — seemed like a dream.
So if you’re looking for an internship that’s government-backed, deeply technical, and super prestigious, then the DRDO Internship 2025 is something you should seriously consider.
About DRDO Internship
The DRDO Internship Programme is offered by the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. It’s mainly targeted at engineering, science, and research students who wish to gain hands-on experience in defence research.
Interns get the chance to work at various DRDO labs like DRDL, DRDE, RCI, GTRE, ADE, DIAT, DEAL, and more, depending on their domain and availability.
These internships are usually on-site and focus on core R&D work in areas like missiles, aerospace, AI, cybersecurity, electronics, mechanical systems, etc.
Internship Highlights 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Start Date | Varies by lab (mostly May–July for summer batch) |
| Duration | 4 to 12 weeks |
| Stipend | Unpaid (most are voluntary) |
| Work Mode | On-site (selected DRDO labs across India) |
| Domains | Aerospace, Mechanical, Electronics, CS, AI/ML, Cybersecurity, Chemical Engineering, Physics |
| Eligibility | UG/PG students from recognized institutions in India |
Who Can Apply?
The eligibility for DRDO internships is usually based on academic performance and field of study. Here’s the general criteria:
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Education Level:
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B.Tech/B.E. (3rd or 4th year)
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M.Tech/M.E. students
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M.Sc./PhD students in relevant science/tech fields
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Stream:
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Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, CS, IT, Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Robotics
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Marks: Minimum 60% aggregate (some labs require higher CGPA)
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Nationality: Indian citizens only
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Institute Requirement: Recommendation/approval from college is compulsory
Selection Process
Here’s how I applied (and how most DRDO labs handle it):
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Choose a DRDO lab related to your domain from https://www.drdo.gov.in/labs-establishments
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Visit the lab’s page and get the internship contact email (often listed under HRD or Director’s section)
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Email your application + resume + cover letter
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If shortlisted, you’ll get a confirmation or further instructions
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In some cases, a basic interview or approval from DRDO HQ is required
Note: There is no centralized portal for internships. You must apply directly to individual labs.
Internship Benefits
While the internship is usually unpaid, the experience is seriously worth it:
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Hands-on exposure to real defence projects
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Opportunity to work with DRDO scientists & researchers
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Certificate of Internship from a Government of India lab
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Ideal for higher studies, DRDO recruitment, or PSU jobs
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Networking with top researchers in your field
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Adds serious weight to your resume
Documents Required
To apply, keep these documents ready:
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Updated Resume (PDF)
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College Bonafide Letter / NOC
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Cover Letter (mentioning preferred lab and project area)
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ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN/College ID)
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Academic transcripts (optional, but recommended)
How to Apply for DRDO Internship 2025 (Step-by-Step)
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Go to https://www.drdo.gov.in
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Click on “Labs & Establishments”
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Identify labs relevant to your stream (e.g., RCI for aerospace, DEAL for electronics)
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Visit the lab’s webpage and find internship/contact info
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Email your application with subject line: “Application for Summer Internship 2025 – [Your Domain]”
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Mention your availability, domain of interest, college info, and attach required docs
Important Dates
| Event | Tentative Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | January–March 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | Varies by lab (generally by March-end) |
| Internship Period | May to July 2025 (Summer Batch) |
| Certificate Issued | Post-internship (on-site submission required) |
FAQs – DRDO Internship 2025
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What is the last date to apply for DRDO Internship 2025?
Most labs accept applications till March 31, 2025, but apply early for better chances. -
Is the DRDO internship paid?
No, it’s generally unpaid, but you receive an official certificate and valuable exposure. -
Do I need to apply via a central portal?
No, you have to apply directly to each DRDO lab via email. -
Can first-year students apply?
No, internships are usually open for 3rd/4th year B.Tech or PG students. -
Will I get accommodation?
Some labs offer basic hostel facilities, but this varies. You may need to manage accommodation on your own. -
Is the DRDO internship certificate valuable?
Absolutely — it’s a Government of India R&D certificate and adds great value to your profile.