If you’re an engineering or science student with a passion for defense research and innovation, the DRDO Internship 2025 could be your perfect opportunity.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), under the Ministry of Defence, offers internships to deserving students from technical backgrounds to work on cutting-edge research in India’s defense sector.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: eligibility, how to apply, internship duration, stipend details, and important tips to increase your chances of selection.
What is the DRDO Internship Program?
The DRDO Internship is an experiential learning program designed for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students pursuing degrees in science, technology, and engineering. Selected interns get a chance to work at one of DRDO’s many laboratories or research centers across India.
This program helps students gain exposure to defense technologies and contribute to national security innovations. It’s also a stepping stone for those interested in a long-term research career in defense or public sector R&D.
Who Can Apply? – DRDO Internship Eligibility Criteria
DRDO has set specific academic and institutional eligibility guidelines for students. Here are the basic eligibility conditions:
- Academic Qualifications:
You must be pursuing a degree (B.E/B.Tech, M.E/M.Tech, M.Sc, or Ph.D.) in disciplines such as:- Electronics & Communication
- Computer Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Physics, Chemistry, or related science subjects
- Institution Requirements: You must be from an AICTE/UGC-recognized institute or university in India.
- Minimum Marks: You should have at least 60% marks or equivalent CGPA.
- Academic Year: Generally, 3rd and 4th-year students of UG and final-year PG students are eligible for DRDO Internship.
Note: Some labs may have additional eligibility depending on ongoing projects.
DRDO Internship Domains and Areas of Work
Interns are placed in various DRDO labs or establishments across India, depending on their subject background. Some of the major labs and their research areas include:
| DRDO Lab/Establishment | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| DRDL (Hyderabad) | Missile Systems |
| DRDE (Gwalior) | Biological and Chemical Defense |
| RCI (Hyderabad) | Avionics and Embedded Systems |
| ADE (Bengaluru) | Aeronautical Systems |
| INMAS (Delhi) | Biomedical Research |
Interns will be exposed to real-time projects, technical discussions, and R&D-oriented tasks in these domains.
How to Apply for DRDO Internship 2025?
DRDO internships are not offered through a centralized portal. Students need to apply directly to the respective DRDO labs. Here’s a step-by-step application process:
Step 1: Identify the Right DRDO Lab
Visit the official DRDO website and explore the list of DRDO labs: https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/
Choose a lab that aligns with your academic background.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application for DRDO Internships
Email the following documents to the lab’s director or HR head:
- Updated CV or resume
- Cover letter stating your interest
- Recommendation letter from your Head of Department (HOD)
- Academic transcripts
- Government-issued ID (e.g., Aadhaar)
Step 3: Await Confirmation
If shortlisted, you may receive an interview call or direct selection confirmation via email. Final selection depends on lab capacity and your academic fit.
Also Read:
DRDO ITR Internship 2025: Summer Internship for UG/PG Students – Apply Now
Is There Any Stipend in DRDO Internship?
DRDO internships are generally unpaid, especially for short-term summer internships. However, some long-term research trainees (6 months or more) may receive a token honorarium or travel allowance, depending on the lab’s policy.
For valuable exposure and networking in India’s top research setups, the experience is often considered more rewarding than the financial benefit.
- Internship Period: 1 to 6 months (depending on lab requirements and project availability)
- Schedule: Can be during summer break (May–July), winter break (December–January), or as per lab discretion
- Timings: Full-time (usually 9 AM to 5 PM)
DRDO Internship Selection Criteria
Selection is competitive and based on:
- Academic performance (especially in core subjects)
- Strong cover letter and resume
- Letter of recommendation
- Research interest or previous project work
- Availability of mentorship and projects at the lab
Important Tips to Get Selected for DRDO Internship
- Customize your email: Address your email directly to the lab director or HR.
- Strong recommendation: Ensure your HOD or professor gives a strong letter of support.
- Follow-up politely: If you don’t hear back within 2–3 weeks, send a follow-up email.
- Apply early: January to March is ideal for summer internships.
Upcoming DRDO Internship Opportunities
Many DRDO labs start accepting applications for summer internships between January to March each year. Keep an eye on individual lab websites or email them proactively.
🔗 Also Read: Top SDE Internships in 2026
🔗 Related: ISRO Internship 2025 – Application, Eligibility & More
FAQs – DRDO Internship 2025
1. Is the DRDO internship paid?
Most DRDO internships are unpaid. Some labs may provide honorarium or TA/DA for long-term interns.
2. Who is eligible for the DRDO internship?
Students from B.E/B.Tech, M.E/M. Tech, M.Sc., or Ph.D. backgrounds in science/engineering can apply for DRDO Internships.
3. How do I apply for the DRDO internship?
You need to email the respective DRDO lab with your resume, cover letter, and documents. There is no centralized portal.
4. When should I apply for the DRDO internship 2025?
Apply between January and March for summer internships. Apply 2–3 months in advance.
5. What kind of work do interns do at DRDO?
You may assist in R&D, software development, modeling/simulation, testing, or lab support based on your stream.
6. How long is the DRDO internship?
The duration ranges from 1 month to 6 months, depending on the lab and project.
7. What are the benefits of the DRDO internship?
You get hands-on research experience, mentoring by scientists, networking opportunities, and potential career guidance.
Final Thoughts
The DRDO Internship 2025 is a golden chance to gain experience in one of India’s most prestigious defense research organizations. With labs spread across India and work in advanced technologies, this internship adds immense value to your academic and professional journey.
Prepare well, apply early, and approach labs strategically. It’s not just an internship—it’s your contribution to India’s defense innovation.