Join Pakistan Army as a Regular Commissioned Officer Through 38th Technical Cadet Course (TCC) – Entry 2026

(Engineering & IT Officer Cadets – Complete Application Guide)

Joining the Pakistan Army as a commissioned officer is one of the most respected career paths in the country. The 38th Technical Cadet Course (TCC) – Entry 2026 offers young men with an academic background in Engineering and Information Technology a golden opportunity to serve the nation while securing a professional, disciplined, and financially stable future. This guide explains how to apply, who can apply, important dates, salary details, selection stages, and career benefits, all in one place.

If you are searching for how to join Pakistan Army as an officer in 2026, this article will answer your questions clearly and practically.

Overview of 38th Technical Cadet Course (TCC) – Entry 2026

The Technical Cadet Course (TCC) is a special entry scheme through which candidates are inducted into the Pakistan Army and sent to NUST-affiliated military institutions for engineering or IT education. After successful academic training and military preparation, candidates are commissioned as officers.

Key Highlights

• Entry Type: Regular Commission (via TCC)

• Course Number: 38th TCC

• Commission Rank: Lieutenant (after training)

• Fields: Engineering & Information Technology

• Job Type: Full-time, permanent commissioned service

• Duty Stations: Across Pakistan after training

Important Dates You Must Know (Entry 2026)

Understanding deadlines is critical for job-related content, especially for Army entries.

• Online Registration Starts: 08 December 2025

• Last Date to Apply: 04 January 2026

• Initial Tests & Verification: Conducted after registration

• ISSB Tests: Scheduled later for shortlisted candidates

👉 Tip: Apply early to avoid technical issues near the deadline.

Who Can Apply for 38th TCC? (Eligibility Criteria)

Nationality

• Male citizens of Pakistan

• Dual nationality candidates must surrender foreign nationality upon selection

Age Limit

• Minimum: 17 years

• Maximum: 21 years (on the specified cut-off date)

Educational Requirements

Candidates must have passed FSc / ICS / equivalent with strong academic performance in relevant subjects.

Eligible academic backgrounds include:

• Pre-Engineering

• Computer Science

• Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry combinations (as per Army rules)

Marital Status

• Unmarried candidates only

Physical Standards (General)

• Minimum Height: 5 feet 4 inches

• Weight: As per Body Mass Index (BMI)

• Vision & Medical Fitness: According to Army medical standards

Engineering & IT Disciplines Offered Under TCC

Through this entry, selected candidates are trained in professional engineering and IT fields, including but not limited to:

• Electrical Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Civil Engineering

• Computer Engineering

• Software Engineering

• Information Technology

These disciplines directly support modern military operations, defense systems, communication networks, and technological development.

How to Apply for Pakistan Army 38th TCC (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Online Registration

Candidates must register through the official Pakistan Army recruitment portal during the announced dates.

https://www.pakistanarmy.gov.pk/

Step 2: Initial Tests

After registration, candidates appear for:

• Intelligence tests (verbal & non-verbal)

• Academic tests (subject-based)

Step 3: Physical Test

Includes:

• Running

• Push-ups

• Sit-ups

• Chin-ups

Step 4: Medical Examination

Initial medical tests are conducted at Army Selection & Recruitment Centres.

Step 5: ISSB Test

Shortlisted candidates are called for Inter Services Selection Board (ISSB) tests, which assess:

• Leadership qualities

• Psychological suitability

• Group behavior

• Officer-like qualities

Step 6: Final Selection & Training

Selected candidates join military training institutions and later proceed for academic education.

Training & Education Structure

One of the strongest benefits of the Technical Cadet Course is free professional education.

• Military training alongside academics

• Degree from a recognized engineering university

• Monthly stipend during training

• Guaranteed commission after successful completion

This makes TCC unique compared to civilian engineering programs.

Salary & Allowances (What You Earn)

During training:

• Monthly stipend (as per Army rules)

• Free accommodation, uniform, and medical care

After commission:

• Starting rank: Lieutenant

• Estimated monthly salary: Around Rs. 50,000+ (excluding allowances)

• Additional benefits include:

  • House rent allowance

  • Medical facilities

  • Transport allowance

  • Pension & gratuity

  • Family benefits

Posting & Duty Locations

After commissioning, officers may be posted anywhere in Pakistan, including:

• Rawalpindi

• Lahore

• Karachi

• Peshawar

• Quetta

• Gilgit

• Multan

• Faisalabad

• Hyderabad
  …and other strategic locations.

Posting depends on service requirements and specialization.

Why Choose Technical Cadet Course? (Career Benefits)

Professional Growth

• Recognized engineering degree

• Hands-on technical military experience

Job Security

• Permanent commissioned service

• Structured promotions

Respect & Status

• Officer rank in Pakistan Army

• National and international respect

Financial Stability

• Competitive salary

• Long-term benefits

Personal Development

• Leadership skills

• Discipline and confidence

• Strong moral character

Common Mistakes Applicants Should Avoid

• Missing the registration deadline

• Providing incorrect academic details

• Poor physical preparation

• Ignoring ISSB psychological preparation

• Overconfidence or underconfidence during tests

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is 38th TCC a permanent commission?

Yes, candidates are inducted under Regular Commission, not short-term service.

Can ICS students apply?

Yes, if their subject combination meets Army requirements.

Is ISSB compulsory?

Yes, ISSB is mandatory for final selection.

Can candidates apply by visiting recruitment centers?

Yes, candidates may visit the nearest Army Selection & Recruitment Centre during registration dates.

Is prior engineering knowledge required?

No, academic training is provided after selection.

Final Thoughts & Conclusion

The 38th Technical Cadet Course (TCC) – Entry 2026 is a career-defining opportunity for young men who want to combine engineering or IT education with military leadership. It offers free education, job security, structured growth, and national service, making it one of the most valuable entries in Pakistan Army recruitment.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and have the passion to serve, do not delay your application. Prepare physically, mentally, and academically to maximize your chances of success.