PMA Long Course: Complete Guide to Qualifications and Criteria

Introduction

Dreaming of a prestigious military career in Pakistan? The (Pakistan Military Academy) (PMA) Long Course could be your gateway to an exciting and honorable profession. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about joining one of the most respected military training programs in the country.

CriteriaDetails
NationalityMust be a citizen of Pakistan; candidates from Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are also eligible.
GenderOnly male candidates are eligible.
Marital StatusMust be unmarried, though exceptions may exist for married serving personnel over 20 years.
Age– Civilians: 17 to 22 (3 Months Age Relaxation in Upper & Lower Case) years as of May 01, 2025.
– Serving Army soldiers: Up to 23 years.
HeightMinimum 5’4″ (162.5 cm).
WeightAs per Body Mass Index (BMI).
RegistrationOnline
Centers ClosedRegistration centers closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.

PMA Long Course

PMA long Course

Eligibility Criteria for PMA Candidates

Educational Requirements

To be considered for the PMA Long Course, candidates must meet specific educational standards:

  • Must have completed intermediate (12th grade) or equivalent
  • The candidate must have at least 55% marks in FSc (Pre-Engineering/Pre-Medical) or an equivalent qualification (FA/ICS/I.Com).
  • Minimum of 60% marks in BA / BSc / examinations With 50% marks in FA/ FSC are eligible for Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Long Course.
  • Minimum of 60% marks in BA / BSc / examinations With 50% marks in FA/ FSC are eligible for Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Long Course.
  • A-Level Candidates: Candidates applying for the PMA Long Course who have an aggregate of 55% marks do not need an equivalence certificate from IBCC.
  • Serving Army Personnel: Soldiers already serving in the army need at least 50% marks in FA/FSc or an equivalent qualification to apply for the PMA Long Course.

In-Eligibility Criteria for PMA Candidates

1.ISSB Rejections

  • If a candidate is rejected twice by the Inter-Services Selection Board (ISSB), they cannot apply for the PMA Long Course again.

2.Failing Initial Tests

  • Candidates who the intelligence or academic tests three times fail so they are not eligible for future PMA Long Course test.

3.Short Gap Between ISSB Tests

  • Candidates must wait at least four months (120 days) between (ISSB tests).
  • Exception: This rule can be waived by the authorities in special cases.

4.Dismissed from Government Service

  • Any person who was removed or dismissed from a government job or armed forces cannot apply.

5.Convicted by a Court

  • If a candidate has been convicted of a serious crime by a court, they are not eligible.

6.Medical Unfitness

  • Candidates who are declared permanently unfit by the AMB cannot reapply for the PMA.

If declared unfit by any military hospital, they are also ineligible unless cleared by the Appeal Medical Board.

7.Medical Fitness

  •  Candidates with Hepatitis B or C are not allowed to apply.

8.Disciplinary Actions

  •  If someone was removed from any military college or institution because of discipline issues, they cannot apply again.

9.Fake Documents

  •  Using fake or altered academic certificates will permanently disqualify you from applying to any military commission.

10.Drug Use 

  • If a candidate tests positive for drug use at military hospitals, they will be permanently unfit to join the military.

11.ISSB Coaching

  • The ISSB selection system looks for natural leadership skills. If it is found that a candidate took training from private coaching centers, they will not be allowed to apply.

Registration and Selection Process

1.Online Registration:

  • Visit www.joinpakarmy.gov.pk to register. You must have an email account to receive the test date and time.Report on the specified date with your computerized roll number slip. The date cannot be changed. Basic computer skills are required as the registration and tests will be conducted online.

2.Written and Intelligence Tests:

Written and Intelligence Tests
  • The test will include multiple-choice questions from English, Math, Pakistan Studies, Islamiat, and General Knowledge. Successful candidates will proceed to physical and medical tests, followed by interviews at the Army Selection and Recruitment Centers.

Important Note:

  • TCC candidates are “Repeaters.”
  • Candidates apply PMA Long Course first time considered “Fresh,” even if they have previously appeared in the ISSB for the Navy or Air Force.

Written Test and Intelligence Assessment

  • Candidates will take a written test that includes multiple-choice questions on:
    • English
    • Math
    • Pakistan Studies
    • Islamiat (Islamic Studies)
    • General Knowledge
  • They will also write essays in both English and Urdu.

1.Medical Examination

  • Candidates will undergo a basic medical check-up to ensure they are physically fit.

2.Physical Fitness Test

Physical Fitness Test
image credit: The Running Channel
  • The physical fitness test includes:
    • Running 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) in 8 minutes.
    • Completing 15 push-ups in 2 minutes.
    • Performing 20 crunches in 2 minutes.
    • Doing 3 pull-ups in 2 minutes.
    • Crossing a ditch measuring 7.4 feet wide, 7.4 feet long, and 4 feet deep.

3.Interview

  • Candidates who pass the written, medical, and physical tests will be interviewed by a preliminary selection board led by the Selection and Recruitment Officer (S&RO).

Process Overview

  • Candidates who pass the written and intelligence tests will move on to the next stages, including physical and medical tests.
  • The final step will be the interview at Army Selection and Recruitment Centers (AS&RCs).

This selection process is designed to evaluate a candidate’s mental, physical, and intellectual abilities to ensure they are ready for ISSB training.

ISSB training

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Passing all the events mentioned above is required for every candidate. If a candidate fails in even one event, they will fail the Physical Test (PT) and will not receive the Inter Services Selection Board (ISSB) form.

Interview: Candidates who pass the written, medical, and physical tests will be interviewed by Senior ROs (instead of the Brigadier) and a psychologist. Before the interview, every candidate will need to write a 10-line essay in both English and Urdu. A plain sheet of paper will be given to each candidate to write the essay. The topic for the day will be displayed on the board in the exam hall or room. The Senior ROs will take notes during each interview. Candidates will be graded out of 20. If a candidate scores less than 12 marks, they will be considered failed and will not be given the ISSB form.

Here are the main things the interview will focus on:

  • How well you speak and express yourself in English and Urdu.
  • Your knowledge of current affairs.
  • Your understanding of geography and Pakistani studies.
  • Your overall personality and outlook.
  • Your involvement in extracurricular activities like sports and hobbies.
  • Any other qualities that the panel finds important.
  • The interview will be recorded on CCTV to ensure transparency, and the recordings will be shared with the relevant authorities.

ISSB Tests

  1. Reporting: If selected after initial tests, report to the Inter-Services Selection Board (ISSB) for further evaluation.
  2. Psychological Tests: These assess your mental aptitude and psychological suitability.
  3. Outdoor Tests: Evaluate your physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership skills.
  4. Group Discussions and Command Tasks: Test your ability to work in a team and lead others.

Final Evaluation

  1. Final Medical Examination: A comprehensive medical exam to ensure fitness for military service.
  2. Merit List: Successful candidates are placed on a merit list based on their performance in all tests.
  3. Training Commencement: Once selected, you will join the PMA for training as a Gentleman Cadet.

Additional Tips

  • Documentation: Ensure all your educational and identification documents are complete and accurate.
  • Physical Preparation: Start a fitness regime well in advance to meet physical standards.
  • Stay Informed: Regularly check the Pakistan Army’s official recruitment page for updates and announcements.

Following these steps will help you navigate the PMA Long Course application process effectively.

These details are crucial for candidates aiming to join the PMA Long Course. For further clarification, visit the official Pakistan Army website (JoinPakArmy) or contact the nearest Army Recruitment Center”.

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