⚡ Key Takeaways
- PMA Long Course is announced twice a year; register at joinpakarmy.gov.pk during the open window.
- Approximately 15,000 candidates apply each intake; only 400–500 are selected (≈3 % success rate).
- ISSB can be attempted a maximum of two times in a lifetime.
- Cadets receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 30,000–35,000 during the two-year training.
- Upon commissioning, graduates are ranked as Second Lieutenant (BPS-16).
- There are four ISSB sub-centres: Malir, Quetta, Kohat, and Gujranwala.
📊 PMA Long Course – Key Statistics 2026
- Annual applicants per intake: ~15,000
- Cadets selected per intake: 400–500 (≈3 % acceptance rate)
- Training duration: 2 years (4 terms of 6 months each)
- Officer salary after commissioning: Rs. 80,000–100,000/month (incl. allowances, 2026)
- PMA Kakul has commissioned officers from 34 countries since 1948
- ISSB lifetime attempt limit: 2 attempts
PMA Long Course Joining Instructions are very useful before enrollment in the Pakistan Military Academy. Pakistan Military Academy is not a normal educational institute, but it is a training institute. Understanding these instructions from the start is the single most important thing a candidate can do because the Army officer commissioning process has zero tolerance for missing documents or missed deadlines.
At PMA, cadets undergo military drills, combat tactics, and physical endurance training to build mental resilience and leadership skills. The army officer training program includes an obstacle course, strategic planning, discipline training, and team coordination exercises. Weapon handling, survival skills, and military ethics are also key components of the cadet training modules.
What Is the PMA Long Course and How Is It Different from a Short Service Commission?
The PMA Long Course is Pakistan’s premier regular commission officer entry programme, conducted at PMA Kakul, Abbottabad in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Unlike a Short Service Commission (SSC), which is typically for three to five years, the PMA Long Course leads to a permanent commission in the Pakistan Army. Cadets who successfully complete the two-year programme are commissioned as Second Lieutenants and can rise through the ranks to become generals. The course is announced twice a year, and all registration is handled exclusively through the official joinpakarmy.gov.pk portal managed by GHQ Rawalpindi.
Pakistan Military Training and ISSB (Inter-Services Selection Board)
Pakistan Military Training is started after the Inter-Services Selection Board. The ISSB board will decide which candidate is eligible to join the Pakistan Military Academy training. Before the Pakistan Military Academy, students must pass the PMA long course initial test. In the initial test, the student must clear the verbal and non-verbal test and the academic test.
After clearing the initial computerized test, the student must go to the physical, medical, and the initial interview test. The candidates who clear the interview test are then called by letter for the ISSB test. The ISSB test for the Pakistan Military Academy is of 4 days, where the student’s capability to join the Pakistan Army is assessed. There are several interviews and physical obstacles in the ISSB test.
What Is the ISSB Test Format and What Happens During the 4 Days?
The Inter Services Selection Board (ISSB) is Pakistan’s primary officer selection board and one of the most rigorous military assessment processes in South Asia. The four-day programme at any of the four ISSB sub-centres is designed to evaluate a candidate’s leadership potential, psychological stability, group behaviour, and physical endurance simultaneously — not just academic knowledge.
| Day | Key Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Initial screening, intelligence repeat test |
| Day 2 | Psychological tests (screen picture, story writing) |
| Day 3 | Group tasks, outdoor obstacles, GTO series |
| Day 4 | Final panel interview, result announcement |
The Group Testing Officer (GTO) series includes progressive group tasks, command tasks, individual obstacles, and a final group discussion. Together these form a 360-degree candidate assessment that no amount of coaching alone can fully replicate. Authentic behaviour, clear communication skills, and genuine concern for teammates consistently produce better ISSB results than rehearsed performances.
“The ISSB is designed to reveal character, not reward performance. Candidates who communicate with clarity under pressure and show genuine concern for their team consistently receive higher assessments than those who try to dominate artificially.” Summarised from documented feedback by ISSB preparation specialists across Pakistan.
Eligibility Criteria for PMA Long Course Admission 2026
First of all, if you meet the military academy age limits and are an unmarried Pakistani civilian under the age of 23, you can easily apply to the Pakistan Military Academy. If your academic background isn’t exceptional, you will need to have a B-form as nationality proof. It is necessary to have this form, and along with that, your marital status must be unmarried. If you meet the educational requirements by completing intermediate education (or its equivalent), you are eligible for application. For those who are graduates and above 24 years of age, you are still eligible to apply for ISSB under the Army officer entry requirements. If you have a CNIC and are unmarried and between 17 and 24 years of age, you can go ahead. You must meet the medical fitness and physical standards criteria, including minimum height and vision standards, to proceed with the fitness assessment. Additionally, if you are already serving in the military, whether as a soldier, lance naik, or any other rank, and you are between 17 to 25 years of age, you are eligible to join PMA as well.
What Is the Age Limit for PMA Long Course 159 in 2026?
Age is calculated strictly as of 1 November of the joining year by GHQ Rawalpindi. A maximum relaxation of three months above the upper limit is permitted for any category.
| Candidate Category | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| Intermediate / FA / FSc holders | 17–22 years |
| Graduates (BA/BSc/BS Honours) | 17–24 years |
| Serving Pakistan Army soldiers | 17–25 years |
| PAF / Pakistan Navy personnel (2-year degree) | 17–30 years |
What Are the Physical Standards Required to Join PMA Kakul?
Physical standards for the PMA Long Course are set by the Adjutant General Branch, GHQ and verified at the Army Selection and Recruitment Centre (AS&RC). The non-negotiable minimums are:
- Minimum height: 5 feet 4 inches (162.5 cm)
- Chest measurement: 31–33 inches (unexpanded to expanded)
- BMI: As per Pakistan Army Body Mass Index standards
- Physical tasks at AS&RC: Running, push-ups, sit-ups, chin-ups, ditch crossing
Candidates below the minimum height are rejected regardless of academic scores or ISSB performance. Begin a structured physical fitness programme at least three months before the expected registration date to ensure you exceed not merely meet these benchmarks.
Pro Tip: Candidates from Balochistan, FATA, Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral, Dir, Tharparkar, and other designated remote districts receive a marks relaxation of 55 % (instead of 60 %) under Pakistan Army’s regional quota policy. Carry your original domicile certificate to the AS&RC on test day.
How to Apply Online for PMA Long Course – Step-by-Step Registration Process
What Documents Are Required to Register at joinpakarmy.gov.pk?
The online registration portal joinpakarmy.gov.pk is the only official channel for PMA Long Course applications. Registrations submitted through any other platform are invalid. Gather the following documents before opening the registration form:
- CNIC (candidate) and father’s CNIC (for minors, attach father’s CNIC)
- Matriculation and Intermediate certificates (originals + photocopies)
- Domicile certificate
- Passport-sized photograph (fresh, plain background)
- B-Form (for candidates below 18 years)
- Hope Certificate (if FSc Part 2 result is awaited, issued on official college letterhead)
Complete Online Registration Process – 7 Steps
- Visit joinpakarmy.gov.pk during the active registration window (check dates for Course 159: September–October 2026).
- Enter personal details: full name, CNIC/B-Form number, date of birth, gender, marital status, religion.
- Enter academic record: Matric and Intermediate obtained marks, total marks, and percentage.
- Enter contact information: mobile number, email address, and permanent address (used for the call letter).
- Declare any previous ISSB attempts (Pakistan Army, Navy, or Air Force).
- Upload a fresh passport-sized photograph as per portal specifications.
- Submit the form. Within 24–72 hours, download your Registration Slip containing the test date, time, and AS&RC venue.
Steps to Clear ISSB and PMA Admission
The very first step in the PMA long course program is to apply online. After the application process, within 24 hours, the student gets their registration slip and the payment challan form. The test date and time will be mentioned on the roll number slip. So, the student needs to take their exam.
Additionally, candidates must pass the physical fitness test and undergo a psychological analysis as part of the selection procedure. To improve your chances, focus on the test format, take practice tests, and review sample tests. Proper preparation, including study tips and success notes, will help you perform better in the intelligence test and overall tests.
Preparation for ISSB Tests
Along with that, if you have a B.Sc., there’s a process after that. It may take one, two, or three years. You need to make photocopies of all your documents, create a file, submit it, and then proceed with ISSB. You will go step by step to succeed in ISSB. First, you have to take the Initial Test. The Initial Test consists of Verbal and Non-Verbal tests, and then the third stage is the academic test, which is based on what you have studied.
The academic subjects include Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Maths, English, Urdu, General Knowledge, Islamic Studies, and Pakistan Studies. These are the major subjects, and alongside these, you will also need knowledge of Current Affairs, National Affairs, and International Affairs. I also provide online preparation for students. You can prepare online with me. Many students from all over Pakistan, and even globally, are preparing with me.
Additionally, developing logical reasoning, analytical skills, and situational judgment is crucial. Time management and English proficiency play a key role in these exams. The selection process also assesses psychological conditioning, leadership qualities, and personality development. Confidence-building and strategic thinking are essential for success.
What Is the PMA Initial Test Syllabus for 2026?
The PMA Long Course initial computerised test is held at the Army Selection and Recruitment Centre and covers two main sections. The Intelligence Section contains 120 questions: 60 verbal (analogy, coding, sequence) and 60 non-verbal (pattern recognition, shape selection). The Academic Section covers English grammar, basic mathematics, Pakistan Studies, Islamic Studies, and general knowledge. A minimum of 50 % marks in each section is required to advance. Candidates who fail either section — even if they pass the other — are eliminated at this stage.
| Test Section | Passing Marks |
|---|---|
| Verbal Intelligence | 50 % |
| Non-Verbal Intelligence | 50 % |
| Academic (English, Maths, GK, etc.) | 50 % |
Physical and Medical Tests for PMA
With the initial test clarity, the physical and medical tests are also mandatory to clear. In the physical test of the PMA long course, they judge the physical strength of the student by the push-up, chin-up, and ditch crossing. After clearing the physical test, the candidate is called for the medical test. At the end of the initial test, the candidate is required to give an interview, which is a necessary step to qualify for the ISSB test.
ISSB Centres and Group Tasks
Many candidates ask, “Can I choose the ISSB center based on my preference? Can I go to Karachi? If I get a letter for Karachi, can I change it to Gujranwala?” The answer is no. This is not based on personal preference. Listen carefully, the call letters for ISSB are not dependent on your wishes.
These are assigned according to Army selection test locations and military assessment regulations. The regions are divided by the military, and you must go to the center assigned to you. You cannot change it according to your choice.
Once your name is assigned to a particular center, you must go there and present yourself to the ISSB board. You will be there for approximately five days. During these five days, you will undergo various group discussions, outdoor tasks, leadership roles, and team exercises. On the first day, you’ll go through all the initial tests that you have already done.
The next day, you’ll take the screen test, which includes screen picture writing, story writing, and sentence writing. This can sometimes happen on the third day as well. Some candidates may say, “Oh no, Sir, it happens on the second day.” But please don’t get confused. The exact timing of these discussion topics for military tests can vary slightly from person to person.
Interviews and Final Selection
Don’t overthink it. Whether the ISSB calls you for the officer post on the second day or the third day doesn’t matter. What matters is that you prepare well. After that, there will be group discussions, followed by group tasks. I have made videos on these different stages, so pay attention to them, and you will learn how to succeed.
If you succeed, you will know soon enough. After the panel interview, you’ll be told right there whether you were rejected or accepted. If you’re accepted, the military will give you a daily allowance for the days you stay at the ISSB center. Afterward, if you’re selected, you will go for training. You’ll be informed about the schedule. Usually, within two months, you’ll be called back for training, but sometimes it may take longer.
During the psychological assessment, candidates will undergo leadership evaluation, communication skills testing, and confidence display. You will also be asked general knowledge questions, undergo a personal background check, and be tested on logical reasoning, stress handling, and moral reasoning.
Detailed Medical Examination
You go for a piles check, and along with that, diabetes is also checked. All health aspects are examined, including a blood test, X-ray analysis, dental check-up, and ECG report. Additionally, a skin disorders test, allergy screening, and hernia examination are conducted. Your initial medical test is done to ensure you meet the vision standards for military candidates and the hearing requirements for cadets.
Further medical evaluations include a color blindness test, a kidney function test, a respiratory check-up, an eye coordination test, a spinal cord check, a posture assessment, a reflexes test, and a joint flexibility test. Your blood pressure for the armed forces is also assessed to determine your fitness.
Once you pass these stages in the Army medical test process, you will receive a fitness certificate for Army officers. Afterward, within approximately two months, you will receive a call informing you of the ISSB center where your name is registered. There are four ISSB sub-centers across Pakistan: one in Malir, one in Quetta, one in Kohat, and one in Gujranwala. You could receive a call letter from any of these four centers.
Which Medical Conditions Cause Automatic Disqualification from PMA?
Certain medical conditions lead to immediate rejection at the Army Medical Board (AMB) stage. Candidates who have previously been declared medically unfit by any AMB, appeal medical board, or military hospital are permanently ineligible. Additionally, a positive drug test at CMCH Military Hospital or an affiliated centre results in immediate disqualification. Other common disqualifying conditions include uncorrected vision beyond the permissible range, colour blindness that impairs field operations, structural spinal abnormalities, and chronic respiratory conditions. If you are unsure about a medical condition, seek a private assessment well before registration opens so you have time to address treatable issues.
Training at PMA Kakul and Progression in Rank
The Pakistan Military Academy Training is for one year. During this, the candidate gets the combat training, field exercises, and military tactics for the cadets to build endurance and survival techniques. After completing the Successful training, the Candidates get commissioned into the Muslim units of the Pakistan military academy. The very first rank after getting commissioned, the students get the rank of a lieutenant, and the second rank is a second lieutenant.
During this period, you undergo specialized training for cadets, including combat simulations, strategic operations, and advanced weaponry handling. Upon completing both trainings, your grade increases from fourteen to sixteen, and there is a slight increase in your pay as well. Your performance evaluation plays a crucial role in your progression track and promotion criteria for Army officers.
How Long Is the PMA Kakul Training Programme and What Does It Cover?
The PMA Long Course training duration is two years at Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul, Abbottabad. The programme is divided into four terms of six months each. Cadets formally referred to as Gentlemen Cadets (GCs) receive a BS-level academic education alongside intensive military training. The curriculum combines modern warfare techniques, strategic military operations, weapons proficiency, navigation, and leadership development. Physical conditioning, including route marches, combat swimming, and mountaineering, is woven into every term. Academic education in military science, national security studies, and leadership theory is delivered in structured classroom sessions. Upon successful completion, Gentlemen Cadets are commissioned as Second Lieutenants in the Pakistan Army, with a starting BPS grade of 16.
“Meeting the criteria only means you are allowed to compete it does not mean you are ready to compete. Every year, thousands of candidates who meet all eligibility criteria still fail at the initial test or physical stage because they treated eligibility confirmation as the finish line.” Summarised from guidance by experienced PMA preparation instructors.
Life at Pakistan Military Academy and Marriage Regulations
As a captain, you move to grade seventeen, and you receive three stars on your shoulder and three pips in your insignia. This is the process through which you become a captain. After you complete your military training and reach this rank, you are eligible to get married, as per the marriage regulations in military life.
Once you join the military and work hard to complete your training, there’s no issue with marriage eligibility after becoming a captain. However, relationship restrictions and regulations for officer marriages must be followed, ensuring compliance with family policies and work-life balance in the armed forces.
You’ll also receive certain benefits for military families, including housing benefits and other facilities. Spousal support, family support in military life, and deployment effects are key considerations for officers. The office cadre also includes lady officers, psychologists, teachers, and veterinary officers, all of whom play essential roles in social life in the armed forces.
PMA Long Course Salary and Allowances After Commissioning
In short, the financial rewards of a Pakistan Army officer career are competitive when all components are included. Understanding the full officer salary structure helps candidates and their families make an informed decision about this long-term military career path.
| Stage / Rank | Approximate Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| Gentlemen Cadet (during training) | Rs. 30,000–35,000 stipend |
| 2nd Lieutenant (BPS-16, post-commissioning) | Rs. 80,000–100,000 incl. allowances |
| Lieutenant (BPS-16 increment) | Rs. 90,000–110,000 |
| Captain (BPS-17) | Rs. 110,000–140,000 |
In addition to base pay, commissioned officers in the Pakistan Army receive accommodation (or house rent allowance), medical cover for the entire family at military hospitals, ration allowance, a military-grade group insurance policy, and subsidised education for children at Army Public Schools and Colleges. These non-cash benefits significantly increase the effective value of the overall compensation package.
Regional Quota and Marks Relaxation Policy – Who Gets 55 % Instead of 60 %?
The answer is broader than many candidates realise. The Pakistan Army regional quota policy grants a 5 % marks relaxation to candidates holding domiciles from under-represented or geographically remote districts. This policy is managed by the Adjutant General Branch, GHQ and is designed to ensure that the Pakistan Military Academy reflects the full national character of the country.
Districts and regions currently covered under the relaxation policy include Balochistan, FATA, Gilgit-Baltistan, District Neelum (AJK), District Kohistan, Chitral, Dir, Tehsil Balakot (Kaghan/Naran), Tharparkar and Tehsil Umer Kot in Sindh, District Rajanpur, and the Cholistan Desert belt in Punjab. To benefit from this policy, candidates must be actual domicile holders who have also studied in those areas simply possessing a domicile certificate without a matching educational history is insufficient.
Who Is Ineligible for PMA Long Course? – Complete Disqualification List
The Pakistan Military Academy maintains strict ineligibility rules. Understanding these upfront saves time and prevents disappointment. A candidate is ineligible if any of the following apply:
- Declared medically unfit by any Army Medical Board (AMB) or appeal medical board previously
- Has appeared in and been rejected at ISSB twice in a lifetime (maximum two attempts)
- Has failed the Initial Intelligence and Academic Test three times
- Previously dismissed from any Armed Forces institution on disciplinary grounds
- A person who joined any branch of the armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force) and left service at any stage
- Found positive in a drug test at a military-designated hospital
- Has a tampered, forged, or falsified document in their application file
- Was withdrawn from an Armed Forces college on disciplinary grounds
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the requirements to join PMA?
Are mobile phones allowed in PMA?
What documents are required for the Army initial test?
What happens in 4 days of ISSB?
How many times can a candidate appear in ISSB for PMA Long Course?
What is the PMA Long Course training duration?
What rank do you get after completing PMA Long Course?
Can I choose my ISSB centre?
What is the success rate for PMA Long Course selection?
Conclusion
Pakistan Military Academy joining instructions include the initial computerized test, Physical test, Medical test, and the interview test. After clearing the interview section, the shortlisted candidate is called for the ISSB test. The ISSB test duration is 4 days. During these four days, students were required to prove their personal ability to join the Pakistan Army. At the end, the shortlisted candidate would be selected and join the Pakistan Military Academy training at Kakul.
In short, the path to becoming a Pakistan Army commissioned officer through the PMA Long Course is demanding but clearly defined. Every stage from the joinpakarmy.gov.pk registration to the ISSB assessment at one of the four sub-centres rewards preparation, honesty, and genuine commitment to national service. Begin your preparation early, meet every eligibility requirement completely, and approach each stage with the discipline that the Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul is renowned for producing.