The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has invited applications for the ‘NSTL Paid Internship Programme 2026’ at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL). This internship programme is an opportunity for final-year B.E./B.Tech students and second-year M.Sc students who wish to gain practical experience in advanced defence research and technology.
There are 35 internship vacancies in various engineering and science disciplines. Interns will be paid ₹5,000 per month for six months while working under scientists at DRDO on actual research assignments.
Specifically, the internship programme will take place at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
. Candidates who wish to apply must send an email, as there is no online facility. The deadline for filling out the application is 23rd March 2026 (5:00 PM).
The following article provides all information about the ‘DRDO NSTL Internship 2026.
DRDO NSTL Internship 2026 – Key Details
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | DRDO – Naval Science & Technological Laboratory |
| Internship Name | NSTL Paid Internship Programme |
| Total Positions | 35 |
| Internship Type | Paid Internship |
| Stipend | ₹5,000 per month |
| Duration | 6 Months |
| Location | NSTL, Visakhapatnam |
| Application Mode | |
| Last Date | 23 March 2026 |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | March 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 23 March 2026 |
| Interview (Tentative) | April 2026 |
| Internship Start Date | 01 May 2026 |
| Internship End Date | 31 October 2026 |
Discipline-Wise Vacancy Distribution
The internship positions are divided across multiple engineering and science streams.
| Discipline | Number of Seats |
|---|---|
| Civil Engineering | 3 |
| Mechanical Engineering | 5 |
| Electrical Engineering | 4 |
| Electronics & Communication | 6 |
| Electrical & Instrumentation | 2 |
| Naval Architecture | 3 |
| Computer Science / IT | 8 |
| M.Sc Physics | 2 |
| M.Sc Chemistry | 2 |
Among all disciplines, Computer Science / IT has the highest number of openings (8), followed by Electronics & Communication Engineering (6).
DRDO NSTL Internship 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet specific academic and age requirements to apply for this internship.
Educational Qualification
For Engineering Students
Applicants from the following branches are eligible:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics & Communication Engineering
- Electrical & Instrumentation Engineering
- Naval Architecture
- Computer Science / IT
Eligibility conditions:
- Candidates must be in the final year of B.E./B.Tech from an AICTE-approved institute.
- A minimum CGPA of 7.5 or equivalent marks in all completed semesters is required.
- Applicants must not have any active backlogs at the time of applying.
For Science Students
Candidates pursuing the following programmes may apply:
- M.Sc Physics
- M.Sc Chemistry
Requirements:
- Must be in the second year of M.Sc from a UGC-recognised university.
- Minimum 75% marks in the first year.
- No pending backlogs.
Age Limit
| Category | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| All Candidates | Below 25 Years |
DRDO NSTL Internship 2026 Stipend and Duration
Selected candidates will receive a fixed stipend during the internship period.
- Monthly Stipend: ₹5,000
- Internship Duration: 6 Months
- Start Date: 01 May 2026
- End Date: 31 October 2026
- Total Stipend: ₹30,000 for the complete internship period
The stipend is a consolidated amount, meaning no additional allowances such as travel expenses, accommodation, or food will be provided. Interns must arrange their own accommodation in **Visakhapatnam.
After successfully completing the programme, participants will receive an official internship certificate from DRDO NSTL, which can strengthen their profile for higher studies and future defence-related career opportunities.
However, this internship does not guarantee employment within DRDO.
Selection Process for DRDO NSTL Internship 2026
The recruitment process consists of two stages.
1. Application Screening
- Applications received via email will be reviewed by NSTL authorities.
- Screening will be based on academic performance, CGPA/marks, and discipline eligibility.
- Only eligible candidates will be shortlisted.
2. Interview
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an online or offline interview.
- The interview panel will evaluate:
- Technical knowledge
- Academic understanding
- Motivation and research interest
Finally, the selection committee prepares the final merit list based on academic performance and interview results.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| All Candidates | No Fee |
How to Apply for DRDO NSTL Internship 2026
Candidates must apply through email since there is no online application portal available.
Follow these steps carefully:
- Prepare an updated resume containing personal details, academic qualifications, and CGPA.
- Write a cover letter explaining your interest in the NSTL internship and the discipline you are applying for.
- Attach scanned copies of:
- Academic transcripts (all semesters)
- College ID card
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Combine all documents and send them via email to:
- Use the subject line:
- “Application for NSTL Internship 2026 — [Your Discipline]”
So, ensure you send the email before 23 March 2026 (5:00 PM).
Important guidelines:
- Candidates can apply for only one discipline.
- Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Quick Access Links
| Link Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Download PDF |
| Official Website | Visit the official website |
| Join Our Whatsapp Channel | Click to Join |
Why Choose DRDO Internship 2026 as a Career?
The DRDO Internship 2026 at Defence Research and Development Organisation offers students practical experience in defence research and advanced technologies at Naval Science and Technological Laboratory. It helps build technical skills, provides guidance from experienced scientists, and adds value to your resume for future career opportunities.
FAQs-DRDO Internship 2026
1. What is the last date for DRDO Internship 2026?
23 March 2026 (5:00 PM).
2. What stipend is offered in DRDO Internship 2026?
₹5,000 per month.
3. Who can apply for DRDO Internship 2026?
Final-year B.E./B.Tech and 2nd-year M.Sc students.
4. How many vacancies are available?
35 internship positions.
5. Where is the DRDO NSTL internship located?
At Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam.
Final Reminder to Apply?
If you are interested, then apply for the DRDO Internship 2026 before 23 March 2026 (5:00 PM). Ensure that your resume and documents are ready, and you do not miss the deadline for sending the application email, so that you do not miss the opportunity of joining Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, a unit of the Defence Research and Development Organisation.
