Intermediate is the golden qualification for the Army - it unlocks both the soldier’s ladder and the officer’s commission. Pre-engineering students with strong marks should look first at TCC; everyone else at PMA Long Course.
Routes & requirements at a glance
| Route | Education | Age | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|
| PMA Long Course - become an officer | Intermediate (2nd div.) | 16½-22 | All 5 incl. ISSB |
| TCC - engineering degree free | FSc Pre-Eng (65%+) | 16½-22 | All 5 incl. ISSB |
| Senior Clerk - higher pay group | Intermediate | 17½-25 | Full pipeline |
| AFNS BSc Nursing (females) | FSc Pre-Med (50%+) | 17-25 | Initial, physical, medical, interview |
Your action plan
- Officer ambition? Register for the next PMA Long Course the week it opens - seats fill fast.
- Pre-engineering with 65%+? Apply for TCC in parallel - a free NUST degree plus commission.
- Not selected for officers this cycle? Join as a soldier and apply for in-service commission later.
- Pre-medical students: watch the Medical Cadet and AFNS advertisements.
Register on the official portal: joinpakarmy.gov.pk. Verify every date against the latest advertisement.