The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is India’s premier agency dedicated to research and development in defense technologies. Aspiring to join DRDO as a Scientist B in 2025? Understanding the selection process, including exam stages, cut-off criteria, and the final merit list, is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you navigate the journey successfully.
Key Highlights
- Organization Name: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
- Post: Scientist B
- Selection Stages: Shortlisting, Descriptive Examination, Personal Interview
- Weightage: 80% GATE/NET score, 20% Interview
- Cut-Off Factors: Number of vacancies, applicants, exam difficulty, candidate categories
- Merit List Basis: Aggregate score from GATE/NET and Interview
- Application Mode: Online
- Official Website: drdo.gov.in
Selection Process Overview 🛡️
The DRDO Scientist B selection process for 2025 comprises multiple stages designed to assess candidates’ technical knowledge and suitability for the role.
1. Shortlisting of Candidates 📋
Initially, candidates are shortlisted based on their GATE or NET scores. The shortlisting ratio is typically 1:25, meaning 25 candidates are selected for each available position. For IIT and NIT graduates, a minimum of 80% aggregate marks in their qualifying degree is required.
2. Descriptive Examination 📝
Shortlisted candidates undergo a descriptive examination, mirroring the pattern of the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE/IES) Mains. This exam consists of two papers:
- Paper 1: 300 marks, 3 hours
- Paper 2: 300 marks, 3 hours
The combined score of these papers contributes 80% to the final merit list.
3. Personal Interview 🗣️
Candidates who excel in the descriptive examination are invited for a personal interview, with a shortlisting ratio of 1:5. The interview evaluates technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and overall suitability, contributing 20% to the final merit list.
Cut-Off Criteria 📊
The cut-off marks for each stage are influenced by several factors:
- Number of Vacancies: More positions may lead to a lower cut-off.
- Number of Applicants: Higher competition can raise the cut-off.
- Exam Difficulty: Tougher exams might result in lower cut-off marks.
- Candidate Categories: Reserved categories often have different cut-off thresholds.
For instance, in previous years, the cut-off for Mechanical Engineering under the General category was 875.
Final Merit List 🏅
The final merit list is compiled based on a weighted aggregate:
- 80% from GATE/NET scores or descriptive examination
- 20% from the personal interview
Candidates must perform well in both components to secure a position.
How to Check the Merit List 🔍
To access the merit list:
- Visit the DRDO official website.
- Navigate to the “Careers” section.
- Click on the relevant link for the Scientist B merit list.
- Enter your login credentials if prompted.
- View and download the merit list for future reference.
Preparation Tips 📚
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the descriptive exam structure.
- Focus on Core Subjects: Deepen your knowledge in your engineering discipline.
- Practice Previous Papers: Solve past papers to gauge question patterns.
- Enhance Interview Skills: Develop clear communication and problem-solving abilities.
Embarking on a career with DRDO as a Scientist B is both challenging and rewarding. A thorough understanding of the selection process and dedicated preparation are key to success.
