DRDO is Offering Paid Internships for 2026: Work on Underwater Tech at NSTL Visakhapatnam

If you’ve ever dreamed of contributing to India’s defense sector, here is a massive opportunity. The Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), a premier wing of the DRDO, has just announced its paid internship program for 2026.

DRDO NSTL Internship 2026

Based in the coastal city of Visakhapatnam, NSTL is at the forefront of underwater technologies for the Indian Navy. They are looking for bright, motivated final-year Engineering and M.Sc. students to join them for a 6-month hands-on stint.

Here is everything you need to know to get your application right.

Who Can Apply?

This isn’t open to everyone; DRDO is looking for specific academic backgrounds:

• B.E./B.Tech Students: You must be in your final year.
• M.Sc. Students: You must be in your 2nd year (3rd or 4th semester).
• The Merit Bar: Engineering students need a minimum CGPA of 7.5, and M.Sc. students need at least 75% marks from their first year.
• Age Limit: You must be below 25 years old as of May 1, 2026.

The Disciplines & Vacancies

There are 35 vacancies in total across various branches. Here’s the breakdown:

• Computer Science/IT: 08 seats (The highest number of openings!)
• Electronics & Comm. (ECE): 06 seats
• Mechanical Engineering: 05 seats
• Electrical Engineering: 04 seats
• Chemical Engineering & Naval Architecture: 03 seats each
• Electronics & Instrumentation: 02 seats
• Physics & Chemistry (M.Sc.): 02 seats each

The Deal: Stipend & Duration

• Stipend: ₹5,000 per month.
• Duration: 6 Months (Starting May 1, 2026).
• Location: NSTL, Visakhapatnam.
• Certificate: You’ll receive an official completion certificate from DRDO a huge addition to any resume.

How to Apply (Don’t Miss the Deadline!)

The application process is strictly digital. Do not send hard copies.

1. Prepare your docs: You’ll need the filled application form (prescribed format), marksheets, Aadhar card, and a brief Bio-data (under 300 words).
2. College Letter: You must get a Reference/Request letter from your HOD or Principal on the college letterhead.
3. Email it: Send the scanned copies to intern-hrd@gov.in.
4. Subject Line: Use: “Application for paid internship with [Your Branch Code]”.

Deadline: March 23, 2026, by 5:00 PM.

A Few Things to Note

• Attendance: You need to be present at the lab for at least 15 working days a month to receive your stipend.
• Selection: It’s merit-based, followed by an interview (online or offline).
• Accommodation: You’ll have to manage your own stay and food in Vizag.

Working with DRDO is about more than just a stipend; it’s about seeing how high-level defense research actually happens. If you meet the criteria, get your paperwork started immediately.

Want the full official notification, application forms, and the college letter template?

I’ve put together all the specific formats and detailed guidelines over on my platform. You can find everything you need to apply correctly here:

👉 **Get Full Details & Application Forms on Result Guru**