DRDO ISSA Internship: Eligibility, Stipend and How to Apply
The DRDO-ISSA 6-month paid internship program for final-year Science and Engineering students had its application cycle close on July 13, 2025. The next cycle is expected around the same time next year.
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The Institute for Systems Studies and Analyses (ISSA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India, offers a 6-month paid internship program for final-year students of Science and Engineering. This internship gives selected candidates hands-on exposure to research, simulation, and modeling in the defense sector.
Applications for the last cycle closed on July 13, 2025. The next application cycle is expected around the same time next year. While you wait, review the eligibility criteria and start gathering your documents. Being prepared ensures you can apply quickly once the next cycle opens.
Overview of the Internship Program
- Conducting Authority: Institute for Systems Studies & Analyses (ISSA), DRDO
- Internship Duration: 6 Months
- Location: ISSA, Metcalfe House, Civil Lines, Delhi – 110054
- Monthly Stipend: ₹5,000 (fixed)
- Total Vacancies: 25
- Application Deadline: Applications for the last cycle closed on July 13, 2025. The next cycle is expected around the same time next year.
- Mode of Application: Email (PDF format)
Fields & Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be in the final year of their respective degree programs. The eligible disciplines are as follows:
1. Computer Science / IT / Allied Fields
- Qualifications:
- B.E. / B.Tech (Full-time, final year)
- M.Tech / M.Sc (Full-time, final year)
- Requirement: First Division from a recognized Indian university/institute
2. Mathematics / Applied Mathematics / Operational Research / Statistics
- Same eligibility conditions apply as above.
Note: Only Indian nationals can apply. Students enrolled in institutions outside India are not eligible.
Application Process: How to Apply
Follow these carefully structured steps to ensure your application is successfully submitted:
Step 1: Download the Application Form
https://drdo.gov.in/drdo/sites/default/files/career-vacancy-documents/AF_ISSA03072025.pdf
- Fill in all required academic and personal details.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Scanned copies (PDF format) of the following documents must be attached with your email:
- 10th Marksheet
- Most recent semester marksheet
- Character Certificate
- College ID Card
- Aadhaar Card
- CV/Resume
- Letter of Recommendation (preferably from HOD/Principal)
Step 3: Format and Save Your Application
- The completed form should be saved in PDF format.
- File Naming Convention: Use lowercase letters followed by your year of birth with no spaces.
Example:rahulkumar1988.pdf
Step 4: Submit via Email
- Email your completed application and documents to hrd.issa@gov.in
- Subject Line: Application for Internship – Your Name
- Deadline: Applications for the last cycle closed on July 13, 2025, before 4:00 PM. The next cycle is expected around the same time next year.
Selection Process
- Mode: Interview-based selection
- Shortlisting: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews via email.
- Merit Criteria: Entirely merit-based. No correspondence will be made with rejected applicants.
Internship Stipend & Disbursement
- Total Amount: ₹30,000 (₹5,000 per month)
- Payment Schedule:
- ₹15,000 disbursed after 3 months
- Remaining ₹15,000 after successful completion of 6 months
- Note: No reimbursement is provided for accommodation, travel, food, or medical expenses.
Key Instructions and Conditions
- Temporary Role: Internship does not guarantee future DRDO employment.
- Internship Certificate: Will only be issued upon successful completion of the entire 6-month term.
- Misrepresentation: Any false information will lead to cancellation of candidature.
- Conduct & Confidentiality: Interns must abide by DRDO rules and the Indian Official Secrets Act, 1923.
- No Leave Policy: Only sick leave with valid medical documents is permitted.
- Attendance: Will be maintained as per lab protocol.
- Access Limitations: Interns will only have access to non-classified lab areas.
- Security Violations: Any breach of rules may result in immediate termination.
Boarding & Lodging
No facilities for boarding, accommodation, or daily commute will be provided. Candidates must make their own arrangements.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Release | July 3, 2025 (for the last cycle) |
| Last Date to Apply | July 13, 2025 (4PM, for the last cycle) |
| Shortlist Notification | To be announced via email |
| Internship Start (Tentative) | August 2025 onwards (for the last cycle) |
Key Highlights At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Internship Type | Paid (Temporary) |
| Duration | 6 Months |
| Stipend | ₹5,000/month |
| Total Stipend | ₹30,000 (split in 2 parts) |
| Number of Vacancies | 25 |
| Location | ISSA, DRDO, Delhi |
| Who Can Apply | Final-year B.Tech/M.Tech/M.Sc |
| Disciplines | CS, IT, Maths, OR, Statistics |
| Nationality Requirement | Indian Nationals only |
Contact Information
- Institute Name: Institute for Systems Studies & Analyses (ISSA)
- Parent Organization: DRDO, Ministry of Defence
- Address: Metcalfe House, Civil Lines, Delhi – 110054
- Phone: 011-23882128 / 011-23882244
- Email for Application: hrd.issa@gov.in
- Official Notification: https://drdo.gov.in/drdo/sites/default/files/career-vacancy-documents/advtISSA03072025.pdf
Cover photo: Akash Missile Launcher by Bhavss1214, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.