DRDO RCI Paid Internship Guide: Eligibility and Application

If you’re an engineering or science student aiming to gain hands-on experience in advanced defence research, this guide is for you. The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), through its Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad, offered applications for its Paid Internship Programme.

Applications for the most recent cycle closed on 11 July 2025. The next cycle is expected around the same time next year. While you wait for the next application window, you can review the eligibility criteria and prepare your documents. This will help you apply quickly once applications open again.

This article covers eligibility criteria, the application process, stipend structure, selection procedure, and other important guidelines.

About the Internship Programme

Research Centre Imarat (RCI) is a premier DRDO lab focusing on advanced avionics for missile and defence systems. The internship gives final-year students from engineering and science disciplines an opportunity to work on live defence R&D projects.

Internship Highlights:

• Internship Mode: Hybrid
• Duration: Minimum 6 months
• Location: RCI, Hyderabad – 500069
• Monthly Stipend: ₹5,000
• Total Internships Available: 160
• Last Date to Apply: Applications for this cycle closed on 11 July 2025.
• Start Date: Internships for the last cycle began on 01 August 2025.

Eligibility Criteria

For Undergraduate Internships (Category A):

• Final-year B.Tech students (VII or VIII semester).
• Full-time students from AICTE/UGC-recognized institutions.
• Must be from one of the following branches:

For Postgraduate Internships (Category B):

• 2nd-year M.Tech / M.Sc students.
• Must belong to one of these disciplines:

Selection Process

1. Eligibility Criteria:
   • Minimum 75% aggregate or ≥7.5 CGPA.
   • Age: Below 28 years.
2. Nominations must be made by the Principal or HOD.
3. Selection is based on:
   • Academic performance
   • Online interview (if required)
   • Document verification
4. Only shortlisted candidates receive email notification.
5. Selection is merit-based only. No correspondence for rejected applications.

Application Process

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Download and Fill the Application Form (Page 4,5,6,7) : https://drdo.gov.in/drdo/sites/default/files/career-vacancy-documents/AdvtRCI27062025.pdf
2. Attach Supporting Documents:
   • Bonafide Certificate
   • Referral letter from Principal/HOD
   • Aadhar Card copy
   • Mark sheets (all semesters)
   • Police verification certificate
   • Undertakings (Official Secrets Act & IT Rules)
3. Send via Speed Post:
   • Clearly mention on the envelope:
     _“Application for Paid Internship – Branch Code: ___”
   • Address to:
     The Director
     Research Centre Imarat (RCI), DRDO
     Vignyana Kancha, Hyderabad – 500069

Important Dates

Stipend Details

• Amount: ₹5,000 per month
• Condition: Interns must be physically present for minimum 15 working days each month.
• Payment Method: Direct bank transfer.
• Disbursement:
  • 1st Installment after 3 months
  • 2nd Installment after 6 months
• Note: Internships beyond 6 months (only for PG students) are unpaid.

Accommodation & Other Facilities

• Boarding/Lodging: Not provided
• Transport/Travel: Not reimbursed

Required Documents at the Time of Joining

1. Request letter from college
2. Bonafide certificate
3. NOC from institution
4. Police verification certificate
5. Undertakings (Official Secrets Act & IT Rules)
6. Aadhar card (Original)
7. College ID card
8. Three passport-size photographs
9. Previous semester mark sheets (or confirmation letter from the college)
10. Bank account details
11. Any other documents as informed

Completion Certificate

• Issued only after:
  • Minimum 6 months duration
  • Project submission and evaluation
  • Adherence to attendance and conduct policies
• Students leaving midway will not receive certificate or stipend.

Important Guidelines & Conditions

• Internship follows RCI’s internal policies and conduct rules.
• Any misconduct results in immediate termination.
• Internship does not guarantee future employment at DRDO.
• DRDO reserves full rights to alter or withdraw the internship scheme at any stage.

Format for College Letter

Include details such as:

• Student’s name, course, ID number, contact details
• Faculty and HOD contact details
• Institution details and AICTE/DTE codes
• Assurance of student’s physical presence for at least 15 working days per month

A full sample letter is available in the official notification.