English in PMA Training – The Reality Every Applicant Must Know | ISSB Preparation Guide

Many candidates preparing for ISSB believe that English is only important for the interview or psychological tests. This assumption is one of the biggest mistakes aspirants make.

The real challenge begins after selection, when you join Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul.

Inside PMA, English is not optional. It is the core working language used in academics, leadership training, discipline, and command. Candidates who ignore English preparation often struggle daily, regardless of how well they performed at ISSB.

1. Medium of Instruction at PMA Is 100% English

From the very first week at PMA, all academic and professional training is conducted entirely in English.

Subjects such as:

• Leadership Studies

• Military Tactics

• Military History

• Psychology

• Field Craft & Operations

require strong listening, reading, and speaking skills.

If a cadet lacks English comprehension, every lecture becomes a challenge. No matter how physically fit or motivated you are, weak English directly affects academic performance and confidence.

This is why experienced mentors always advise candidates to improve English before joining PMA, not after.

2. Weak Communication Can Lead to Relegation

In the Pakistan Army, leadership is inseparable from communication.

At PMA, cadets are expected to:

• Deliver briefings confidently

• Speak clearly in English

• Issue commands correctly

• Address seniors and subordinates professionally

Consistent inability to express thoughts in English can negatively impact your assessments. In serious cases, poor communication and lack of confidence may result in relegation.

A simple principle applies:

An officer who cannot communicate clearly cannot lead effectively.

3. Class Discussions Are Continuous Leadership Assessments

Every cadet is given opportunities to lead during classroom discussions and group activities.

You are required to:

• Lead discussions

• Present summaries

• Share logical viewpoints

• Handle questions confidently

During these sessions, your Platoon Commander closely observes:

• Clarity of English

• Confidence level

• Officer-like attitude

• Ability to influence others

These evaluations carry real weight in your overall performance record.

4. Debates, Group Discussions, and Presentations Are Routine

Life at PMA closely reflects the leadership testing environment of ISSB—but on a daily basis.

Cadets regularly participate in:

• English debates

• Group discussions

• Leadership presentations

• Panel-style exercises

Strong English enhances confidence and command presence. Weak English exposes hesitation instantly and affects how others perceive your leadership potential.

5. Operational Briefings Are Evaluated at Multiple Levels

During tactical exercises, sand model discussions, and operational planning sessions, communication becomes even more critical.

Your performance may be evaluated by:

• Platoon Commander

• Company Commander

• Battalion Commander

• In certain cases, the Commandant

Clear English ensures your ideas are understood accurately. One unclear explanation can disrupt an entire tactical plan.

At this level, English is no longer just a language—it becomes a professional tool.

6. PMA Environment Forces English Usage Daily

PMA culture does not allow comfort zones.

From day one, cadets are constantly reminded:

• Speak English

• Avoid local languages

• Think and act like an officer

English becomes part of your daily routine—during training, discussions, corrections, and even informal interactions. Adaptation is not optional; it is enforced through discipline and repetition.

7. Early Days: Weak English Means Extra Pressure

In the initial phase of training, senior cadets test juniors for:

• Confidence under pressure

• Mental toughness

• Ability to speak English

• Courage and composure

Cadets with weak English may face:

• Repeated speaking drills

• Immediate corrections

• Extra physical tasks

• Re-presentations

This corrective process is designed to build officers who can communicate under stress—because battlefield leadership demands clarity, not silence.

Final Advice for Candidates Planning to Join Pakistan Army

If your goal is to Join Pakistan Army, Join PAF, or Join Pakistan Navy, understand this clearly:

English at PMA is not just a subject.
It is your:

• Leadership identity

• Academic survival skill

• Communication weapon

• Professional standard

Start improving your English during ISSB preparation, alongside intelligence test practice, psychological test readiness, and physical training.

Remember:

To become an officer, you must communicate like an officer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is English mandatory at PMA Kakul?

Yes. All instruction, communication, and evaluations are conducted in English.

Can weak English affect my PMA training?

Yes. Weak English can impact academic results, confidence, leadership assessments, and may even lead to relegation.

Is English more important after ISSB?

Yes. ISSB tests potential, but PMA demands continuous performance in English every day.

Should I improve English before ISSB or after selection?

Before ISSB. Early preparation makes PMA life significantly easier.