DRDO DRDE Internship 2026: Eligibility, Stipend & Apply Online
The DRDO DRDE Internship 2026 offers an opportunity for undergraduate and postgraduate students to gain practical research experience at the Defence Research and Development Establishment (DRDE), Gwalior. DRDE, a laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has announced eight paid internship positions for students interested in scientific research and technical fields.
The programme covers Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences and Engineering. Selected candidates will receive a fixed stipend of ₹5,000 per month for a minimum internship duration of six months. Students who want to build careers in research, biotechnology, chemistry or engineering can consider this opportunity.
Applications are being accepted through Speed Post or email. Interested candidates should check the eligibility requirements and prepare their documents before the closing date.
DRDO DRDE Internship 2026: Overview
| Particulars | Details |
| Organisation | DRDO |
| Laboratory | DRDE, Gwalior |
| Total Vacancies | 8 |
| Internship Type | Paid Internship |
| Monthly Stipend | ₹5,000 |
| Duration | Minimum 6 Months |
| Location | Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh |
| Application Mode | Speed Post / Email |
| Last Date | 14 November 2026 |
| Commencement | 1 January 2027 |
DRDO DRDE Internship 2026: Available Positions
According to the internship advertisement, eight positions are available across three academic categories.
- Biological Sciences – 3 Positions
Students pursuing M.Sc. or equivalent courses in the third or fourth semester, or B.Tech in the seventh or eighth semester, can apply. Eligible specialisations include:
- Biotechnology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Immunology
- Chemical Sciences – 3 Positions
Candidates pursuing M.Sc. Chemistry or an equivalent course in the third or fourth semester can apply. Relevant specialisations include Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry.
- Engineering – 2 Positions
Students pursuing B.E. or B.Tech in the seventh or eighth semester in the following branches can apply:
- Electronics Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
The number of positions may change depending on organisational requirements.
DRDO DRDE Internship Eligibility Criteria 2026
Before applying, students should ensure they meet the prescribed eligibility conditions.
- Applicants must be Indian citizens.
- Candidates must be studying at an AICTE/UGC-approved college or university.
- Applicants must have at least 75% marks or a minimum 7.5 CGPA.
- Candidates must be below 28 years of age as of 14 November 2026.
- Applicants must obtain a recent referral or sponsorship letter from their respective college or university.
- Students must be enrolled in the relevant academic semester and eligible subject category.
Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection. Applications will be evaluated according to the requirements mentioned in the advertisement.
DRDO DRDE Internship Stipend 2026
Selected candidates will receive a fixed stipend of ₹5,000 per month during the six-month internship.
The total stipend for six months is ₹30,000. However, payment will be released in two instalments:
- ₹15,000 after successful completion of three months.
- ₹15,000 after successful completion of six months.
Candidates should also note that DRDE will not provide hostel accommodation, boarding or lodging expenses. Students should consider their living and travel arrangements before accepting the internship.
How to Apply for DRDO DRDE Internship 2026?
The application process requires candidates to download and complete the prescribed application form. There is no separate online registration portal mentioned in the application instructions.
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official DRDO website and open the vacancies section.
- Find the DRDE Gwalior Paid Internship 2026 advertisement.
- Download the official notification and application form (Annexure A).
- Fill in your personal, educational and academic details.
- Attach a recent passport-size photograph and college sponsorship letter.
- Include your detailed resume and self-attested educational certificates and mark sheets.
- Attach copies of your Aadhaar Card, PAN Card and bank details.
- Submit the complete application through Speed Post or email.
Email: director.drde@gov.in and hrd.drde@gov.in
Postal Address:
Director, DRDE, DRDO, Ministry of Defence, Jhansi Road, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh – 474002.
Applications must reach the establishment by 14 November 2026. Incomplete or late applications may be rejected.
Selection Process and Internship Benefits
Candidates will be shortlisted based on their academic qualifications and eligibility. There is no written examination. If required, DRDE may conduct an interaction through telephone or video conferencing.
Selected interns will get an opportunity to understand research activities in a defence research laboratory. They must submit a progress report after three months and a project report after six months. A completion certificate will be issued after fulfilling the internship requirements.
Students should also remember that this internship does not guarantee permanent employment in DRDO. Electronic devices, including mobile phones and laptops, are restricted inside the DRDE campus as per the notification.
DRDO DRDE Internship 2026: Important Dates and Links
| Event / Resource | Details |
| Notification Date | 18 October 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 14 November 2026 |
| Selection Intimation | 1 December 2026 |
| Internship Start Date | 1 January 2027 |
| Official Website | https://www.drdo.gov.in/ |
| Vacancies Section | https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/offerings/vacancies/ |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the DRDO DRDE Internship 2026 stipend?
Selected candidates will receive ₹5,000 per month for six months, totalling ₹30,000.
How many vacancies are available?
There are eight positions in Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences and Engineering.
What is the last date to apply?
The last date for submitting applications is 14 November 2026.
Can B.Tech students apply?
Yes. Eligible students in the seventh or eighth semester can apply for the relevant Biological Sciences or Engineering positions.
Is there an online application portal?
No separate online registration portal is specified. Applications must be submitted through Speed Post or email.
When will the internship start?
The internship is scheduled to begin on 1 January 2027.
Students interested in research-based careers should carefully review the DRDO DRDE Internship 2026 notification before applying. Verify all eligibility conditions, documents and submission instructions through the official DRDO website to avoid application errors.
