How to Get a Job in ISRO: Eligibility Criteria & Application Process Explained

Are you curious about how to land a job at the prestigious Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)? Then this blog is for you. ISRO has been at the forefront of pioneering space missions, satellite launches, and advancements in space science and technology. The institution was established in 1969 and has made significant strides in making India a key player in the global space arena. In this blog, we will understand how to get a job at ISRO. We will explore the eligibility criteria, application procedures, and preparation tips for securing a coveted position at ISRO. Whether you’re an aspiring engineer, scientist, or administrative professional, this guide will provide valuable insights and help you navigate the path to a fulfilling and rewarding career at ISRO.

How to Get a Job at ISRO?

Landing a job at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) after graduation is a dream for many aspiring scientists and engineers. ISRO, known for its groundbreaking missions and contributions to space technology, offers numerous opportunities for those passionate about space exploration. Here are the essential steps on how to get a job at ISRO after graduation

Step 1: Posses the Necessary Education Qualifications

The first step towards securing a job at ISRO after graduation is to ensure that you possess the necessary educational qualifications. ISRO typically looks for candidates with a strong background in science and engineering. Here are the key qualifications required:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in engineering, technology, or science. Degrees in fields, such as Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, and Physics are highly valued.
• Master’s Degree: For certain positions, a master’s degree in engineering or science is required. Specializations in fields such as Aerospace Engineering, Structural Engineering, Control Systems, Electrical Engineering, and Astrophysics can be particularly beneficial.
• PhD: For research-oriented positions, a PhD in a relevant field is often necessary. ISRO values candidates who have conducted significant research and have a strong understanding of advanced concepts in their field.
• Additional Certifications: Certifications in relevant software, programming languages, and technical skills can give you an edge over other candidates. Knowledge of tools like MATLAB, Simulink, and CAD software can be advantageous.

Step 2: Check the Eligibility Criteria

To know how to get an ISRO job after graduation, the next step is to check the eligibility criteria for the specific position you are interested in. ISRO has a set of eligibility requirements that candidates must meet to apply for various positions. 

The common eligibility criteria for the ISRO Centralized Recruitment Board Exam are as follows:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (BTech/BE) in fields like mechanical, electronics, electrical, etc.
• You need to have graduated with at least 65% marks or a 6.8 CGPA for your engineering degree.
• The age limit for most positions is typically between 21 and 35 years. However, this can vary depending on the role and the level of experience required.
• Candidates must be Indian citizens. Proof of nationality is required during the application process.

Step 3: Prepare for the ISRO Centralized Recruitment Board Exam

The next step in how to get a job in ISRO after graduation is to qualify for the ISRO Centralized Recruitment Board (ICRB) exam. The ISRO Centralized Recruitment Board (ICRB) exam is an annual examination that aims to identify and select highly skilled scientists and engineers for a variety of job roles within the institution.

The exam is divided into two main parts. The first part consists of multiple-choice questions that assess technical knowledge, general awareness, and reasoning ability. This phase is followed by a descriptive paper that further evaluates the candidates’ skills and knowledge.

Those who successfully pass the written exam advance to the interview round, where their technical expertise, communication skills, and overall suitability for the role are thoroughly assessed. This comprehensive selection process ensures that the selected candidates possess the necessary qualifications and capabilities for the job roles

Here are some tips to help you prepare and qualify for the exam:

• Understand the Syllabus: Go through the detailed syllabus for the specific role you are applying for. The syllabus is usually available on the ISRO website.
• Practice Previous Papers: Solve previous years’ question papers to get an idea of the exam pattern and difficulty level. This will also help you identify important topics.
• Time Management: Practice managing your time efficiently during the exam. Allocate specific time slots for each section and stick to them.
• Focus on Core Subjects: Concentrate on your core subjects and strengthen your fundamentals. Make sure you understand the basic concepts thoroughly.
• Mock Tests: Take mock tests to simulate the actual exam environment. This will help you build confidence and improve your speed and accuracy.

Step 4: Apply for the Job

The next step in this guide on how to get a job in ISRO outlines the process of a job application. Now that you have the necessary qualifications and have cleared the ICRB exam, it’s time to apply for the job at ISRO. Here’s a detailed guide on how to apply:

1. Go to the ISRO Careers page.
2. Navigate to the career section on the homepage.
3. Fill out the application form with accurate educational and personal details such as a recent color passport-size photograph, your signature, essential qualification certificates, experience certificates, etc.
4. Provide accurate educational and personal details. Double-check all information to avoid any mistakes that could affect your application.
5. Pay the required application fee using the specified payment method. Make sure to keep a copy of the payment receipt.
6. After filling out the form and submitting the fee, finalize your application by hitting the submit button. Save a copy of the completed form and the payment receipt for your records.

Pro Tip: To understand how to get a job at ISRO after completing the aeronautical engineering degree, decide which area within aerospace you wish to explore. Then Find a corresponding center under the Department of Space (DOS). Each ISRO center has its application process and criteria. For example, if you are interested in working with the Space Applications Center (SAC), visit their official website, and navigate to the ‘Careers’ tab to find relevant information.

Also Read: How to Become a Scientist in ISRO?

Step 5: Prepare for the Assessment

Once your application is submitted and accepted, you need to prepare for further assessments that ISRO conducts to select the best candidates. This typically involves a written test and skill assessment.

1. Written Test

The written test is designed to evaluate your technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Here’s how you can prepare:

• Review Key Topics: Focus on core subjects related to your field. Review your textbooks, class notes, and any relevant study material.
• Practice Problems: Solve as many practice problems and previous years’ question papers as you can. This will help you get a feel of the types of questions that are typically asked.
• Time Management: Practice managing your time effectively while solving questions. This is crucial as the written test is usually timed, and you need to ensure you can answer all questions within the allotted time.

2. Skill Assessment

After the written test, there’s a skill assessment. This is where they check if you have the practical skills needed for the job. It might involve solving problems, working on projects, or demonstrating your technical abilities. Here are some tips to help you ace this assessment. 

• Hands-On Practice: Engage in hands-on practice related to your field. This could involve laboratory work, programming, or using specific tools and equipment.
• Understand the Assessment Format: Familiarize yourself with the format of the skill assessment. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare more effectively.
• Showcase Your Skills: During the assessment, focus on showcasing your practical skills and demonstrating your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Pro Tip: Want to know about how to get a job at ISRO after completing the mechnaical engineering or electrical engineering degree, regularly check the ISRO careers page for job notifications.

Step 6. Master the Interview

The final step in this guide on how to get a job in ISRO is to master the interview. The interview is a crucial part of the selection process and can significantly influence your chances of getting the job. Here’s how you can prepare to make a strong impression and demonstrate your suitability for the job role.

• Understand ISRO’s Work: Have a good understanding of ISRO’s recent missions, current projects, and plans. This shows your genuine interest in the organization.
• Technical Knowledge: Be ready to answer technical questions related to your field of study. Brush up on your core subjects and be prepared to solve problems on the spot.
• Behavioral Questions: Prepare for behavioral questions that assess your soft skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving abilities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
• Mock Interviews: Practice with mock interviews to get a feel of the actual interview environment. This can help you build confidence and improve your answering techniques.
• Practice Interview Questions: Crafting answers for common interview questions will help you articulate your thoughts clearly, boost your confidence, and ensure that you’re ready for the interview.

Conclusion

Securing a job at ISRO is a challenging yet rewarding journey. It requires dedication, hard work, and a strategic approach. In this blog on how to get a job at ISRO, we have outlined the essential steps and strategies required to secure a job at ISRO. By following these steps you can increase your chances of becoming part of one of the world’s leading space research organizations. If you’re looking to gain experience before applying for a job, check out our blog on how to get an internship at ISRO. It provides detailed guidance on securing an internship, which can be a valuable stepping stone to your dream career.

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