The Indian Army has officially announced the opening for the 35th Judge Advocate General (JAG) Entry Scheme, set to start in October 2025. This pathway is ideal for unmarried male and female law graduates who want to join the Indian Army as Short Service Commissioned (SSC) Officers within the JAG branch. Here, we outline the eligibility requirements, application details, age criteria, selection stages, important dates, and other critical information to help candidates apply successfully.
JAG 35 Notification Overview
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of Entry | Short Service Entry (JAG) – 35th Course |
| Age Limit | 21 to 27 years as of 1st July 2025 |
| Eligibility | Unmarried male and female law graduates |
| Educational Qualification | Minimum 55% in LLB, CLAT PG 2024 score required |
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Indian citizens are eligible, along with individuals of Indian origin from select countries who have migrated to India with the intent of permanent settlement. All applicants must satisfy the nationality requirements established by the government.
- Age Limit: Candidates should be between 21 and 27 years of age as of July 1, 2025 (born between July 2, 1998, and July 1, 2004).
- Education: A minimum aggregate of 55% in an LLB degree (either a 3-year degree after graduation or a 5-year integrated course post-10+2). Candidates must have appeared for the CLAT PG Exam 2024 and should be eligible for Bar Council registration in India.
Available Positions
- Total Vacancies: 8 positions (4 for men, 4 for women)
Service Terms and Commission Options
The initial service under this entry is a Short Service Commission (SSC) for 10 years, extendable by an additional 4 years based on performance and organizational needs.
- Release Options: Officers can opt to leave after 5 or 10 years. Additionally, after 10 years, eligible officers may be considered for a Permanent Commission.
Training at OTA, Chennai
Candidates selected for the JAG 35 Entry will undergo rigorous training:
| Training Location | Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai |
|---|---|
| Duration | 49 weeks |
| Stipend During Training | ₹56,100 per month |
| Award on Graduation | Post Graduate Diploma in Defence Management and Strategic Studies from the University of Madras |
Rank and Salary Structure
Upon successful completion of training, candidates are commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army. The following table outlines the rank progression and pay scale:
| Rank | Years of Service | Pay Level | Monthly Pay Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lieutenant | On Commissioning | Level 10 | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 |
| Captain | After 2 years | Level 10B | ₹61,300 – ₹1,93,900 |
| Major | After 6 years | Level 11 | ₹69,400 – ₹2,07,200 |
| Military Service Pay (MSP) | ₹15,500 (Lieutenant to Brigadier) |
Application Process
The application process is entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you complete your application correctly:
- Mode of Application: Visit joinindianarmy.nic.in to apply.
- Application Window: Open from 30th October 2024 to 28th November 2024.
- Steps to Apply:
- Register on the portal (new users)
- Complete the form with personal, educational, and SSB details
- Verify information, submit, and print a copy for your records and the SSB interview
Selection Procedure
The selection process consists of multiple stages to assess the candidates’ suitability for service in the JAG branch:
- Application Shortlisting: Based on the CLAT PG 2024 score, shortlisted candidates will proceed to the next stage.
- SSB Interview: Only selected candidates will be invited for a 5-day interview, tentatively scheduled for May/June 2025. The interview has two stages, and only candidates clearing Stage I advance to Stage II.
- Medical Examination: Candidates who pass the SSB interview will undergo a medical examination to assess fitness.
- Final Merit List: Based on SSB scores, with ties resolved using age and qualifying exam scores.
SSB Interview Locations: Allahabad, Bhopal, Bangalore, and Jalandhar.
Important Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Opens | 30th October 2024 |
| Application Deadline | 28th November 2024 |
| Shortlisting Notification | March 2025 |
| SSB Interview | May/June 2025 |
Additional Allowances and Benefits
In addition to the salary, officers receive various allowances to support their service in different regions:
| Allowance | Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| High Altitude Allowance | ₹3,400 – ₹25,000 |
| Field Area Allowance | ₹10,500 |
| Siachen Allowance | ₹42,500 |
| Insurance Coverage | ₹1 crore under AGIF |
Documents Required at SSB
Candidates must bring original and self-attested copies of the following documents to the SSB:
- Completed application form with a passport-sized photo
- Certificates and mark sheets for 10th, 12th, Graduation, and LLB
- CLAT PG 2024 scorecard
- Bar Council registration (if applicable)
Travel Allowance: First-time candidates attending the SSB interview for this entry are eligible for AC 3-tier train fare or equivalent bus fare reimbursement.