Feature	Detail
Ad Title	Join Pakistan Army as Commissioned Officer Through 156 PMA Long Course
Batch	156 PMA Long Course
Posted Date	May 4, 2025
Registration Period	March 25 – June 1, 2025
Preliminary Tests	May 9 – July 4, 2025
Training Location	Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul, Abbottabad
Training Duration	2 Years
Official Website	www.joinpakarmy.gov.pk

Why Choose the Pakistan Army?

The Pakistan Army is one of the most prestigious and disciplined institutions in the country. Choosing a career in the Army offers:

• Job Security

• Free accommodation, food, and healthcare

• Leadership development

• National and international travel

• A chance to serve the country

• Opportunities for higher education and specialized training

Eligibility Criteria for 156 PMA Long Course

Nationality

Only Pakistani citizens and domicile holders of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) are eligible. Dual nationals must surrender other nationalities upon final selection.

Gender & Marital Status

Age Requirements (as of November 1, 2025)

Physical Standards

Educational Requirements

Students in the final year can apply on the basis of a “Hope Certificate” issued by their institution’s head.

Ineligibility Conditions

Applicants are deemed ineligible if they fall under any of the following:

• Twice rejected by ISSB

• Three-time failure in initial academic/intelligence tests

• Removed/dismissed from any Government/Army service

• Medically unfit (permanently), including Hepatitis B/C

• Convicted in a court of law for any offense

• Withdrawn from training institutions on disciplinary/medical grounds

• Fake academic documents or any record tampering

• Positive drug test

• ISSB appearance within the last 120 days (without waiver)

Required Documents

Applicants must bring the following documents (original and attested copies) to the selection center:

• Matriculation Certificate and Marks Sheet

• Intermediate or Equivalent Certificate

• CNIC or B-Form with Guardian’s CNIC

• 3x passport-size photographs (attested front and back)

• ISSB Not Recommended Letter (for repeaters)

• Hope Certificate (if awaiting results)

• Character Certificate verified by a Gazetted Officer

Preliminary Selection Process

1. Written/Intelligence Test

The initial written test evaluates candidates on:

• Verbal & Non-verbal Reasoning

• English Language

• Urdu Essay

• English Essay

The test is conducted through a computerized system at Army Selection and Recruitment Centers (AS&RCs).

2. Medical Examination

Candidates who pass the written test undergo a basic medical examination at the respective AS&RC.

3. Physical Test

Candidates are tested against the following minimum physical fitness standards:

4. Interview

Candidates are interviewed at the selection center. The interview is evaluated out of 20 marks, and a minimum of 12 marks is required to qualify.

Final Selection Process

Candidates who clear the preliminary selection are called for:

• ISSB Test (4-day evaluation)

• Final Medical at designated Army hospitals

• Final merit-based selection at General Headquarters (GHQ)

Training at PMA Kakul

Those who make it to the final list join the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) for a two-year rigorous training program. PMA transforms cadets through:

• Academic Education

• Physical Training

• Weapon Handling

• Leadership Development

• Character Building

The training is divided into four terms and prepares cadets to become Second Lieutenants in the Pakistan Army.

How to Apply for 156 PMA Long Course

Online Registration

• Visit the official website: www.joinpakarmy.gov.pk

• Register between March 25 and June 1, 2025

• Print the Roll Number Slip (available 5–7 days after registration)

• Appear at the assigned center on the test date with required documents

Registration via AS&RCs

Candidates can also visit the nearest Army Selection and Recruitment Centers (AS&RCs) for assistance:

Pro Tips for Successful Application

• Maintain excellent physical fitness

• Prepare thoroughly for intelligence and academic tests

• Avoid coaching for ISSB, as it affects natural evaluation

• Ensure all documents are complete and correctly attested

• Stay updated with test schedules via the official website

Life as a Commissioned Officer

Once commissioned, an officer enjoys numerous privileges:

• Respect and honor in society

• Access to international military courses

• Competitive salary and allowances

• Family accommodations and medical facilities

• Promotions based on merit and performance

• Peacekeeping missions abroad with the UN

Inspirational Stories: From Cadet to Commander

Many renowned leaders of Pakistan began their journey through PMA Long Courses. This program has produced Chiefs of Army Staff, Defense Attachés, UN Peacekeeping Commanders, and war heroes. It is more than just a training course—it is a legacy of valor and honor.

Read Also:

• Pakistan Army Mujahid Regiment Jobs in Pakistan– May 2025 Recruitment Guide

FAQs 

1. What is the 156 PMA Long Course?

The 156 PMA Long Course is a regular commission course offered by the Pakistan Army for male citizens who aspire to join as Commissioned Officers. Selected candidates undergo two years of training at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul and are commissioned as Second Lieutenants upon successful completion.

2. Who can apply for the 156 PMA Long Course?

Pakistani male citizens (including domicile holders of AJK and GB) who meet the educational, physical, and age requirements can apply. Applicants must be unmarried (except serving personnel) and medically fit.

3. What is the age limit for candidates?

The age limits (as of November 1, 2025) are:

• Intermediate: 17–22 years (relaxable by 3 months)

• 2-Year Graduate: 17–23 years (relaxable by 3 months)

• 4-Year Graduate: 17–24 years (no relaxation)

• Serving Army Soldiers: 17–25 years (no relaxation)

4. What are the educational requirements?

• Intermediate (FA/FSc or equivalent) with at least 55% marks

• 2-Year Graduation with 60% marks (and 50% in FA/FSc)

• 4-Year Graduation (BS/BA(H)/BBA/BPA) with the same criteria

• A-Level students require IBCC equivalence with at least 55% aggregate

• Serving Army soldiers need 50% marks in FA/FSc

5. When is the registration period for the 156 PMA Long Course?

Online and offline registration begins on March 25, 2025, and ends on June 1, 2025.

6. How can I apply?

You can apply:

• Online via the official website: www.joinpakarmy.gov.pk

• By visiting the nearest Army Selection & Recruitment Center (AS&RC)

7. What is the selection process?

The selection process involves:

• Written/Intelligence Test

• Initial Medical Examination

• Physical Test

• Interview at AS&RC

• ISSB Test & Psychological Evaluation

• Final Medical Examination

• Final selection based on merit at GHQ

8. What is the duration of training?

The training duration is 2 years at Pakistan Military Academy (PMA), Kakul.

9. What is the minimum height and weight requirement?

• Height: 5 feet 4 inches (162.5 cm)

• Weight: According to the Body Mass Index (BMI) standard

10. Can A-Level students apply?

Yes, A-Level students can apply but must provide an IBCC Equivalence Certificate showing at least 55% aggregate marks.

11. Can married individuals apply?

Only serving Army personnel above the age of 20 years are allowed to apply if married. Civilians must be unmarried.

12. What documents are required at the time of initial test?

You must bring original and attested copies of:

• Matric and Intermediate certificates

• CNIC or B-form (with guardian’s CNIC)

• 3 passport-size photographs (attested on front and back)

• Hope Certificate (for result-awaiting students)

• ISSB Not Recommended letter (for repeaters)

• Character and Declaration Form verified by a gazetted officer

13. What happens if I fail the preliminary tests?

If you fail the written, physical, or medical tests, you will be disqualified from further participation in the 156 PMA Long Course.

14. What is the role of ISSB in the selection?

The Inter Services Selection Board (ISSB) evaluates selected candidates over four days through psychological, physical, and group tasks. This is a critical stage of the selection process.

15. Is coaching for ISSB recommended?

No, coaching is discouraged by the Pakistan Army. Artificial or coached behavior can negatively impact your ISSB performance.

16. What is the salary of a cadet during training?

Cadets receive a monthly stipend during training, along with free lodging, uniforms, and medical treatment. Exact figures may vary but are sufficient for daily needs.

17. Will I be guaranteed a job after training?

Yes, successful cadets are commissioned as Second Lieutenants in the Pakistan Army after completing their two-year training at PMA.

18. What is the career path after joining?

Officers receive promotions based on performance, experience, and service requirements. You can also pursue specialized courses, international deployments, or join advanced branches like ISPR, ISI, Aviation, or Engineering Corps.

19. Can I apply if I have been rejected by ISSB previously?

You may apply if you were rejected only once. However, you are ineligible if rejected twice by ISSB or thrice in initial academic/intelligence tests.

20. Is there any fee for applying?

No, there is no application fee. The entire recruitment process is free of charge. Be cautious of individuals or entities claiming otherwise.