Introduction
Joining the Pakistan Army is a dream for thousands of young Pakistanis who want to serve their country with pride, honor, and dedication. Every year, students from different educational backgrounds apply to become part of the armed forces. However, many applicants fail because they are unaware of the eligibility requirements, test details, cadet college admissions, and training process.
This blog on How to Join Pakistan Army provides a step-by-step guide on how to join Pakistan Army, including educational qualifications, Army cadet colleges with fee structures, ISSB and written test syllabus, Army ranks and promotions, and training at PMA Kakul.
Eligibility and Requirements to Join Pak Army
Before applying, candidates must meet the basic criteria: (How to Join Pakistan Army)
- Age Limit:
- 17 to 22 years (Intermediate candidates)
- 17 to 23 years (Graduates)
- 17 to 24 years (Army serving soldiers)
- Education: Minimum Matric / Intermediate / Graduation depending on the entry course (PMA Long Course, Medical, Engineering, ICT).
- Marital Status: Unmarried (except for Army personnel above 20 years).
- Physical Standards:
- Minimum Height: 5’4’’ (162.5 cm)
- Chest: 78 – 83 cm
- Good eyesight & medical fitness
👉 Applications are submitted online through the official website of Join Pakistan Army.
Top Cadet Colleges in Pakistan (with Fee Structure)
Many students prepare for Army selection by joining cadet colleges that focus on academics, discipline, and physical training.
| Cadet College | Location | Approx. Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Cadet College Hasan Abdal | Punjab | PKR 350,000 – 400,000 |
| Military College Jhelum | Punjab | PKR 250,000 – 300,000 |
| Cadet College Petaro | Sindh | PKR 280,000 – 320,000 |
| Cadet College Kohat | KPK | PKR 270,000 – 300,000 |
| Military College Murree | Punjab | PKR 260,000 – 310,000 |
| Cadet College Sui | Balochistan | PKR 220,000 – 250,000 |
| Pakistan Steel Cadet College Karachi | Sindh | PKR 200,000 – 240,000 |
(Fee structures may vary slightly each year; check respective college websites for latest updates.)
Pakistan Army Ranks and Promotions
Once selected, cadets begin their military journey. The promotion system in Pak Army is structured and based on service, performance, and merit.
- Commissioned Officers Path
- Second Lieutenant → Lieutenant → Captain → Major → Lieutenant Colonel → Colonel → Brigadier → Major General → Lieutenant General → General
- Junior Commissioned Officers (JCO) and Soldiers Path
- Lance Naik → Naik → Havildar → Subedar → Subedar Major
This hierarchy ensures career growth for both officers and soldiers.
Pakistan Army Written Test Syllabus
The written test is the first step in selection. It usually includes:
- English – Grammar, Vocabulary, Short Essays
- Mathematics – Algebra, Arithmetic, Geometry
- Pakistan Studies – History, Geography, Current Affairs
- Islamiat – Basic Islamic knowledge, Quran, Hadith
- General Knowledge – Everyday Science, World Affairs
👉 Past papers and guides are widely available for practice.
ISSB Test (Inter Services Selection Board)
After clearing the written test, candidates appear in the ISSB Test, which is a 4–5 day assessment including:
- Intelligence Test (verbal & non-verbal)
- Psychological Test
- Group Discussions & Outdoor Tasks
- Command Tasks (leadership qualities are tested)
- Interview with senior officers
Only candidates who pass ISSB move to final medical examination and merit list.
Marks Criteria and Selection
- Written Test – 30%
- Physical Test – 20%
- ISSB Test – 40%
- Medical & Interview – 10%
👉 Final merit depends on total score. Competition is tough, and preparation is essential.
Training at PMA Kakul
Successful candidates join the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul, Abbottabad, for training.
- PMA Long Course Duration: 2 years
- Training includes:
- Military drills and weapons training
- Academics (science, leadership, war strategy)
- Physical training & endurance tests
- Outdoor survival camps
After completing PMA, cadets are commissioned as Second Lieutenants.
FAQs about How to Join Pakistan Army
Q1: Can girls join Pakistan Army?
Yes, girls can join as Lady Cadet Officers (LCC) in fields like Medical, ICT, Engineering, and Education.
Q2: What is the minimum qualification to apply?
Matriculation is required for soldier entry, while Intermediate or Graduation is required for officer entry.
Q3: How to apply online?
Visit the official website: Join Pak Army and fill the registration form.
Q4: How hard is ISSB?
ISSB is challenging, but with confidence, honesty, and preparation, many candidates succeed.
Conclusion
Joining the Pakistan Army requires discipline, academic preparation, and physical fitness. From cadet college admissions to passing the written and ISSB tests, every step is competitive. However, with the right guidance and preparation, you can achieve your dream of serving as an Army officer.
If you are passionate about becoming a soldier of Pakistan, start preparing early, stay physically fit, and keep yourself updated through official Army announcements.
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