Last Day to Apply: DRDO Internship 2025 for Final-Year Science and Engineering Students Closes Today

Today marks the final opportunity for aspiring young scientists and engineers to apply for the DRDO Internship 2025, one of the most coveted internship programmes in the field of defence research in India. Organised by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this paid internship is being offered at the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) in Hyderabad, a leading DRDO facility focused on the development of advanced missile systems for the Indian Armed Forces.

With the application window officially closing on July 14, 2025, eligible students who haven't yet submitted their forms must act swiftly. The internship promises an immersive experience in high-end research and technological innovation in India’s defence sector, providing final-year students with hands-on exposure to projects that contribute directly to national security.

About the Internship Programme

The DRDO internship is part of a broader initiative to involve young talent in defence research, enabling students to engage with real-world scientific challenges and work alongside some of the country's top minds in missile and defence technology. The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), where the internship will be conducted, is a flagship centre under DRDO, specialising in cutting-edge missile development for India’s tri-services.

Students selected for the internship will have the opportunity to participate in live projects and collaborate with research scientists, engineers, and technical staff working on mission-critical systems. DRDL has historically played a central role in projects related to tactical and strategic missiles, and this internship allows young scholars to contribute meaningfully while gaining invaluable experience.

Who Can Apply: Eligibility Criteria

This internship is strictly open to final-year students of Engineering or Physical Sciences who are enrolled in full-time, regular programmes from recognised universities or institutes across India.

To be eligible, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Final-Year Status: Only students currently in their final year of undergraduate or integrated postgraduate programmes in Engineering or Physical Sciences are eligible.
• Minimum Academic Performance: Applicants must have maintained at least 60% aggregate marks throughout their academic career or possess an equivalent CGPA.
• Age Limit: The upper age limit for applicants is 28 years as of the closing date of applications (July 14, 2025).
• Discipline: While DRDO hasn’t specified exact branches, students from core science and engineering disciplines such as Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Computer Science, Physics, and related streams are typically preferred.

Selection Process and Important Dates

DRDO will shortlist candidates based on their academic records and, where required, a possible interaction or interview round. The shortlisting process is designed to identify candidates with strong academic foundations, problem-solving abilities, and research aptitude.

Key dates to remember:

• Application Deadline: July 14, 2025
• Shortlist Announcement: July 22, 2025
• Interview Date: July 26, 2025
• Internship Start Date: August 1, 2025

Shortlisted candidates will be informed via email or official notification, and interviews may be conducted either in-person at DRDL Hyderabad or virtually, depending on logistical considerations.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

If you are eligible and interested, here’s how you can apply before the deadline:

1. Download the Application Form:
   Visit the official DRDO website (https://www.drdo.gov.in) or go directly to the internship/careers section. Download the notification and the application form provided there.
    
2. Fill in Accurate Information:
   Enter all required personal, academic, and institutional details in the form. Be sure that all information provided is accurate and up to date.
    
3. Prepare Supporting Documents:
   Attach the following with your application:
   • Self-attested copies of all academic mark sheets
   • A government-issued photo ID (Aadhar, PAN, etc.)
   • Proof of current academic enrolment (letter from institute or ID card)
   • One recent passport-size photograph
      
4. Verify Eligibility:
   Before submission, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria — including final-year status, minimum marks, and age limit.
    
5. Submit the Application:
   Send the completed application form along with all supporting documents via post or hand delivery to the address mentioned in the official notification. Digital submissions may not be accepted unless specified.
    
6. Keep a Copy for Your Records:
   Retain a photocopy or scanned version of your complete application for reference and follow-up.
    
7. Await Communication:
   DRDO will contact shortlisted candidates with further instructions regarding interviews and onboarding.

Why This Internship Matters

This internship offers more than just academic credit or stipends — it provides exposure to real-world defence challenges and the chance to be part of India’s strategic technological ecosystem. For students passionate about science, technology, and contributing to national progress, working at DRDL is an unparalleled opportunity.

Interns will not only receive mentorship from senior scientists but also gain access to research labs, testing facilities, and project documentation that is usually restricted to professional researchers. For those planning to pursue a career in research, defence technology, or public-sector engineering roles, the internship also adds significant weight to their résumé.

Final Thoughts

With only hours left before the application window closes, eligible students are strongly encouraged to act quickly. DRDO’s internship programme stands out not just for its prestige but also for the unique experience it offers in terms of skill development, national service, and professional growth.

Interested candidates should carefully follow all instructions, ensure their documentation is complete, and dispatch their applications immediately. As India’s defence needs evolve, DRDO continues to look for bright minds who can contribute to its vision — and this internship may well be the first step in that journey.

Stay updated through the official DRDO website and prepare for the next phase if you are shortlisted. This could be the beginning of a future in advanced research and national innovation.