📌 Key Takeaways
- PMA stands for Pakistan Military Academy, located in Kakul, Abbottabad, KPK.
- Training duration is 2 years (4 terms of 6 months each).
- Successful graduates are commissioned as Second Lieutenants.
- Course 158 registration ran 24 March – 3 May 2026; Course 159 is expected October–November 2026.
- Only male Pakistani citizens, unmarried, aged 17–25 (varies by qualification) are eligible.
- Cadets receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 30,000–35,000 PKR during training.
- ISSB can be attempted a maximum of 2 times in a lifetime.
- Apply online at joinpakarmy.gov.pk.
PMA Long Course Past Papers
PMA Long Course Online Test
What is PMA Long Course?
PMA stands for Pakistan Military Academy. It is a training center for officers. The Pakistan army announces this program twice a year and selects the most obedient young man for the Pakistan army as an officer.
The PMA Long Course is a two-year formal training program at the Pakistan Military Academy (Kakal, Abbottabad), aimed at inducting young men into the Pakistan Army as regular commissioned officers.
Successful candidates who pass the complete two years of training of the PMA Long Course by the Pakistan Military Academy and get commissioned in the rank of Second Lieutenant are given access to military education, leadership development, benefits, and a stable professional career.
In short, the PMA Long Course is the primary gateway to a regular commission in the Pakistan Army. Unlike short service commissions or technical entry schemes, the PMA Long Course produces officers who form the permanent backbone of Pakistan’s military leadership — with PMA Kakul graduates leading over 85% of all army units across combat arms such as Infantry, Armoured, Artillery, and Air Defence.
PMA Meaning in Urdu
- The Urdu meaning of the PMA long course, Pakistan Military Academy, is (پاکستان عسکری درسگاہ)
- The main Center of the Pakistan Military Academy is in Abbottabad, in the village of Kakul in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
- After passing the initial test, the short-listed candidate will be called for the ISSB Test. The following blogs provide full details about PMA.
- PMA Long Course Test is conducted twice a year. One is in the summer ( May to July ). The Other in the Winter ( October to December).
- It is carried out through the following Process.
PMA Long Course Eligibility Criteria 2026
According to the PMA Long Course Eligibility Criteria 2026, the candidate must be a Pakistani citizen and an unmarried male. The age limit for PMA Long Course is 17 to 22 years for FSC, 17 to 23 years for graduates, and 17 to 24 years for four-year degree holders. Minimum education FA/FSc or Graduation with 60% marks and a height of 5 feet 4 inches is required. Only candidates who meet the physical fitness, medical fitness, and educational criteria are eligible for the Pakistan Army Officer Recruitment 2026.
PMA Long Course Age Limit 2026 – Category-Wise
| Qualification Category | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| Intermediate / FSc / A-Level | 17 – 22 years |
| Graduation (2-year degree) | 17 – 23 years |
| BS / BA (Hons) 4-year degree | 17 – 24 years |
| Serving Armed Forces soldier | 17 – 25 years |
Here is how the age structure works: the Pakistan Army extends the upper age limit for candidates with higher educational qualifications because their longer academic journey justifies additional time. GHQ Rawalpindi enforces these limits strictly a maximum age relaxation of 3 months above the upper limit is allowed for any category.
What is the Regional Quota and Marks Relaxation for PMA Long Course?
The Pakistan Army provides a marks relaxation of 55% (instead of the standard 60%) for candidates holding domiciles from underrepresented or remote regions. This policy reflects the Army’s commitment to inclusive recruitment across all provinces of Pakistan.
Regions eligible for the regional quota relaxation include Balochistan, FATA, Gilgit-Baltistan, District Neelum (AJK), District Kohistan, Chitral, Dir, Tehsil Balakot (Kaghan/Naran) in KPK, Tharparkar and Tehsil Umer Kot in Sindh, District Rajanpur, and the Cholistan Desert belt in Punjab. Candidates must be domicile holders and must have completed their studies in those areas to benefit from this relaxation.
What is the PMA Long Course
Join PMA Long Course 2026
PMA Long Course Apply Process
PMA Long Course 159 Registration
Documents Required For PMA LC 159
PMA Long Course Requirements 2026
Criteria For PMA Long Course 2026
PMA Roll Number Slip 2026 Download
PMA Initial Test Syllabus 2026
PMA Long Course Test Pattern
PMA Physical Test Requirements 2026
How To Prepare For the PMA Long Course Test
How To Fill the PMA Long Course ISSB Form
PMA 159 Joining Letter
PMA Joining Instructions
PMA Cadet Haircut
PMA Long Course Training Process
How to Apply for PMA Long Course 2026 – Step-by-Step
Willing Candidates must apply for the PMA Long Course through the Pakistan Military Academy’s official website of the Pakistan Army. You must provide the correct information on the Registration form.
After the registration, the website announces the test date on its official website portal. Candidate can check their test date at the Test Center where they applied, and download the slip.
Step-by-Step PMA Long Course Application Process
- Visit the official portal – Go to joinpakarmy.gov.pk during the open registration window.
- Create an account – Register with your CNIC/B-Form number, a valid email, and a mobile number.
- Fill in the online form – Enter personal details, educational qualifications, domicile, and upload required documents.
- Choose your nearest AS&RC – Army Selection & Recruitment Centers are located in Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Gilgit, Hyderabad, Multan, DI Khan, Muzaffarabad, Faisalabad, Khuzdar, and Pano Aqil.
- Download the roll number slip – Print and save your slip; it is required at every stage of the selection process.
- Appear for the Initial Test – Report to your designated AS&RC on the test date.
PMA Long Course Initial Test
The initial test of the candidate is passed through the following stages:
- Computerized test: Verbal, Non-Verbal, and Academic. The initial test of the Pakistani military academy is very easy. There are three sections that we have already mentioned.
- Physical Test: Chin-ups, push-ups, running. With the given time of passage, the student fulfills all the physical requirements to qualify for the initial medical test for the pma long course.
- Initial Medical Test: Eyesight, Height, Weight. After clearing this initial medical test, the short-listed candidates will be further called for the initial interview test.
- Initial Test Interview: After passing all the above tests, the short-listed students will be called for the initial interview. The Student must arrive before the time of the interview day. The initial interview test is also very easy.
PMA Long Course 159 Initial Test Pattern
- VERBAL: Number Series, Alphabetic Series, Coding and Decoding, Odd Man Out, Analogy, Blood, Relations, Age, Days, Directions, Comparison, Common Sense, Word Formation, Logical Sequence of Words, Cause and Effect.
- NON VERBAL: Analogy, Paper Cutting, Water Image, Mirror Image, Pattern, Odd Man Out, Image Analysis.
- ACADEMICS: Pakistan Studies, General Knowledge, World Affairs, Armed Forces Islamic Studies, Wars, Battle of Islam, Quran, Holy Prophet(SAW), English, Basic Mathematics.
PMA Long Course CBT Test Section-Wise Breakdown
| Test Section | Questions / Details |
|---|---|
| Verbal Intelligence | 60 questions |
| Non-Verbal Intelligence | 60 questions |
| Academic Knowledge | 50 questions |
| Passing Threshold | Min 50% per section |
| Test Mode | Computer-Based (CBT) |
| Test Venue | AS&RC centers nationwide |
The PMA Long Course computer-based test is conducted at Army Selection & Recruitment Centers (AS&RC) in all major cities of Pakistan. A minimum of 50% marks is required in each section to advance to the physical and medical stages. Candidates preparing for the initial test are strongly advised to practice using PMA Long Course past papers and online mock tests to familiarize themselves with the CBT format and time pressure.
PMA ISSB Test – What is ISSB and How to Prepare?
The ISSB stands for Inter-Services Selection Board, which assesses the leadership skills, intelligence, emotional stability, and physical fitness of the candidates.
The list of shortlisted candidates who have reached the ISSB test stage for recruitment to the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) has been released. This test is an important milestone for the youth aspiring to get commissioned as officers in the Pakistan Army.
How to prepare for the ISSB test?
Candidates preparing for the ISSB have to go through stages like a psychometric test, a group discussion, an interview, and a physical test. Paying attention to the psychological aspects is also very important, as the board tests the candidate’s attitude, decision-making ability, and ability to work under stress.
Key points for success in ISSB
- Honesty – Avoid lying or adopting a fake attitude in ISSB.
- Leadership skills – Try to motivate others in group tasks.
- Physical Preparation – Fitness is a must for PMA, so make running, push-ups, and other exercises a part of your daily routine.
- Mental Strength – Staying calm and positive in difficult situations is the key to success.
What happens after ISSB?
If you pass the ISSB test, you will be called for training at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA), where you will be trained in military discipline, combat skills, and officer responsibilities.
What Does the ISSB 4-Day Process Look Like?
The Inter-Services Selection Board (ISSB), headquartered in Kohat, runs a rigorous four to five day assessment designed to evaluate a candidate’s officer-like qualities (OLQs). The process is structured across the following stages:
- Day 1 – Screening: Initial intelligence tests, picture story writing (PPDT), and group discussion tasks.
- Day 2 – Psychological Tests: Word association test, situation reaction test (SRT), and self-description test (SDT).
- Day 3 – Group Tasks (GTO): Outdoor group obstacle tasks, command tasks, and snake race.
- Day 4 – Individual Obstacles & Interview: Individual obstacle course followed by a personal interview with a Psychologist and the Interviewing Officer (IO).
- Day 5 (Final) – Conference: The board reviews all assessments and announces results.
The ISSB test for PMA Long Course can be attempted a maximum of 2 times in a lifetime. This strict limit makes thorough preparation before the first attempt absolutely essential for aspiring Pakistan Army officers.
“The ISSB does not test physical strength alone it evaluates whether a candidate can lead, think clearly under pressure, and inspire confidence in others. Honesty and consistency across all four days are the most reliable predictors of a Recommended (R) result.”
— Pakistan Army Career Guidance, 2025
PMA LC Final Medical
After Clearance of the ISSB, the final medical will be held near CMH or according to the schedule.
What are the Things Checked in the Final Medical Test of PMA?
- Vision – The candidate’s eyesight should be 6/6. Collar blindness or poor eyesight is unacceptable.
- Hearing – The complete health of the ear and the ability to hear are tested.
- Blood test and urine test – Any type of infection, diabetes, or hepatitis can be disqualified.
- Bone and joint examination – Medical failure can occur in cases of fractures, arthritis, or spinal problems.
- Cardiac checkup – Heart performance is checked through ECG and other tests.
How to prepare for the final medical of the PMA Long Course?
- Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.
- Get enough sleep so that blood pressure and other vitals are normal.
- Avoid alcohol and cigarettes completely, as they can negatively affect the medical report.
- If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, consult a doctor to address them.
What happens in case of medical failure in the PMA?
If a candidate fails the final medical, he is declared ineligible to join the Pakistan Army. However, sometimes a medical appeal is allowed, in which a re-examination can be conducted.
PMA Long Course Medical Visual Standards 2026
| Vision Type | Required Standard |
|---|---|
| Distance vision (with glasses) | 6/9 and 6/12 |
| Near vision | J2 / J7 or N8 / N12 |
| Colour blindness | Not accepted |
| Height minimum | 5 feet 4 inches (162.5 cm) |
| Weight | As per Army BMI standard |
What is Life at PMA Kakul Like? Training Process Explained
The Pakistan Military Academy, widely known as the “Cradle of Leadership,” has been producing commissioned officers for the Pakistan Army since 1948. The two-year training program is divided into 4 terms of 6 months each, combining military discipline, combat skills, academic education, and character development into a single, intense curriculum.
During their time at PMA Kakul, Abbottabad, Gentlemen Cadets as officer trainees are formally addressed follow a rigorous daily schedule that begins before dawn. Training includes weapons handling, modern warfare tactics, physical fitness drills, map reading, navigation, and leadership exercises. Cadets simultaneously receive a BS-level academic education alongside these military activities, making the PMA Long Course equivalent in academic rigor to a university degree program.
What Do Cadets Learn During the PMA Long Course Training?
| Training Area | Key Skills Covered |
|---|---|
| Military discipline | Drill, bearing, uniform |
| Combat tactics | Infantry, battle drills |
| Weapons training | Small arms, crew weapons |
| Physical fitness | Running, obstacle courses |
| Academic education | BS-level coursework |
| Leadership skills | Command tasks, OLQs |
| Survival skills | Field craft, map reading |
| Character development | Honour, courage, service |
Cadets receive a monthly training stipend of approximately Rs. 30,000–35,000 PKR. All accommodation, meals, medical care, and training materials are covered by the Pakistan Army at no cost to the cadet.
What is the Passing Out Parade (POP) at PMA Kakul?
The Passing Out Parade (POP) at PMA Kakul is one of the most celebrated military ceremonies in Pakistan. It marks the formal commissioning of Gentlemen Cadets as Second Lieutenants in the Pakistan Army. The ceremony is typically attended by senior military officials, including the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), as well as the families of graduating cadets.
The PMA Passing Out Parade is a national occasion it symbolizes the completion of two years of sacrifice, discipline, and service orientation. Newly commissioned officers take the oath of allegiance to Pakistan and proceed to their first posting across combat arms and supporting services of the Pakistan Army.
PMA Long Course Final Selection Process
The PMA Long Course Final Selection Process begins after ISSB recommendation, which includes the Final Medical Test (CMH), Merit List, and GHQ Approval. The candidate is selected on the basis of mental ability, leadership, physical fitness, and overall performance. Successful candidates are issued a PMA joining letter, after which they report for two years of military training at PMA Kakul, Abbottabad, and get a commission in the Pakistan Army.
PMA Long Course Salary After Commission
The salary after the PMA Long Course starts from the rank of Second Lieutenant upon getting the commission. Pakistan Army Officer Salary includes basic pay, military allowances, accommodation, medical facilities, and other benefits. PMA Long Course career not only provides financial stability but is considered a prestigious government job in Pakistan due to pension, promotion system and future security.
Pakistan Army Officer Salary Scale 2026 – Rank-Wise
| Rank / Stage | Approx. Monthly Package |
|---|---|
| Cadet (during training) | Rs. 30,000 – 35,000 |
| Second Lieutenant (on commission) | Rs. 80,000 – 100,000 |
| Lieutenant (2–3 years) | Rs. 100,000 – 130,000 |
| Captain (5–7 years) | Rs. 150,000 – 170,000 |
| Major (10–12 years) | Rs. 200,000+ |
All figures are inclusive of basic pay plus standard military allowances. In addition, Pakistan Army officers receive free or subsidized accommodation, comprehensive medical coverage, children’s education allowances, and a pension after 25 years of service. The total Pakistan Army officer benefits package makes the career highly competitive with the civil service and private sector.
What is the Career Growth After PMA Long Course?
A PMA Long Course graduate enters the Pakistan Army as a Second Lieutenant with a Regular Commission and a minimum service obligation of 10 years. The promotion system in the Army is structured, merit-based, and time-bound most officers reach the rank of Major within 10–12 years and Lieutenant Colonel within 16–18 years.
Beyond field service, Pakistan Army officers are eligible for higher education at premier institutions such as the National Defence University (NDU), NUST, and international military staff colleges. Many senior officers have pursued master’s degrees and even doctorates while on active service, sponsored by the Army. This combination of leadership development, professional education, and practical command experience makes the Pakistan Army officer career one of the most multidimensional career paths available in Pakistan.
PMA Long Course ISSB Interview Questions
PMA Long Course ISSB interview questions are designed to test the candidate’s personality, leadership, confidence, and decision-making ability. A typical ISSB interview asks about introduction, educational background, family information, current affairs, and reason for joining the Pakistan Army. A candidate who demonstrates honesty, positive thinking, mental strength, and clear communication has a higher chance of succeeding in ISSB and being selected in the PMA long course.
PMA Long Course vs Short Service Commission – Which is Better?
The answer depends on your long-term career goals. The PMA Long Course leads to a Regular Commission a permanent, pensionable career with promotion through all ranks. The Short Service Commission (SSC) is a fixed-term commission of 3–8 years without automatic permanence. Here is a direct comparison to help you decide:
| Factor | PMA Long Course |
|---|---|
| Commission Type | Regular (permanent) |
| Training Duration | 2 years |
| Age Limit | 17 – 25 (varies) |
| Gender | Male only |
| Promotion Ceiling | Up to General |
| Pension Entitlement | Yes (after 25 yrs) |
| ISSB Attempts | Max 2 in lifetime |
| Entry Education | FSc / Graduation |
| Monthly Stipend | Rs. 30,000–35,000 |
| Starting Salary | Rs. 80,000–100,000 |
Common Misconceptions About PMA Long Course
Many candidates approach the PMA Long Course with incorrect assumptions that reduce their chances of selection. Here are the most common myths and the facts that replace them:
📊 PMA Long Course – Key Facts & Statistics
- Approximately 15,000 candidates apply for each PMA Long Course intake.
- Only 400–500 cadets are selected per intake a selection rate of roughly 3%.
- PMA has been training Pakistan Army officers since 1948.
- PMA graduates lead over 85% of all Pakistan Army units.
- Training costs cadets nothing the Pakistan Army covers all expenses plus pays a monthly stipend.
- Course 159 registration is expected in October–November 2026.
- Myth: “Physical fitness alone will get me selected.” Fact: The ISSB equally weights personality, intelligence, leadership potential, and psychological stability.
- Myth: “PMA training is only military drill.” Fact: Cadets receive a full BS-level academic education alongside military training.
- Myth: “You can appear in ISSB unlimited times.” Fact: The ISSB can only be attempted twice in a lifetime.
- Myth: “Meeting the eligibility requirements guarantees selection.” Fact: Eligibility is only the first gate the actual selection process is among the most competitive in South Asia.