Joining the Pakistan Army as a commissioned officer is a dream for many young Pakistanis, and the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Long Course is the most respected path to achieve that goal. This 2-year training program shapes civilians into disciplined officers, ultimately commissioning them as 2nd Lieutenants.
The Pakistan Army has officially announced PMA Long Course 158, and if you’re planning to apply, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from registration dates to eligibility and selection criteria.
📅 PMA Long Course 158 – Important Dates (2026)
Make sure you don’t miss these deadlines:
- Online Registration Starts: March 24, 2026
- Last Date to Apply: May 03, 2026
- Initial Tests (AS&RC): April 20 – July 03, 2026 (Weekdays only)
- Repeater Candidates Reporting: April 20 – May 01, 2026
- Overseas Candidates Deadline: July 01, 2026
👉 Apply online at: www.joinpakarmy.gov.pk
Tip: Don’t wait until the last days—early registration helps you secure a better test date and avoids website issues.
⚠️ Important Note for Female Candidates
PMA Long Course is only for male applicants. Female candidates can explore other options like:
- Armed Forces Nursing Service (AFNS)
- Lady Cadet Course (LCC)
✅ Eligibility Criteria for PMA 158
Before applying, carefully review these requirements:
🎂 Age Limits (As of November 1, 2026)
- Intermediate (FA/FSc): 17 – 22 years (+3 months relaxation)
- 2-Year Graduates / PN / PAF Personnel: 17 – 23 years (+3 months)
- 4-Year Graduates (BS/BBA/BA Hons): 17 – 24 years (No relaxation)
- Serving Army Soldiers: 17 – 25 years
🎓 Education Requirements
- Minimum 60% marks in FA/FSc
- Graduates need 60% in degree, but 50% in FA/FSc is acceptable
- Serving soldiers require 50% marks
💡 Relaxation: Candidates from certain underdeveloped regions can apply with 55% marks.
📄 Hope Certificate Rule
If you’re waiting for your FA/FSc Part-II result, you can apply using a Hope Certificate from your college.
⚠️ But remember:
If your final result is below 60%, your application will be rejected.
📏 Physical Requirements
- Gender: Male
- Marital Status: Unmarried (exceptions for serving personnel)
- Minimum Height: 5’4” (162.5 cm)
- Weight: According to BMI standards
🧪 Selection Process
The selection process includes multiple stages:
📝 1. Written & Intelligence Tests
Computer-based MCQs covering:
- English
- Mathematics
- General Knowledge
- Pakistan Studies
- Islamiat
Also includes:
- Short essay writing in English and Urdu
🏃 2. Physical Test Requirements
You must meet these minimum standards:
- 1 Km Run: 8 minutes
- Push-ups: 15 reps (2 minutes)
- Sit-ups: 20 reps (2 minutes)
- Chin-ups: 3 reps
- Ditch Crossing: 7.4 ft x 7.4 ft
❌ Who Is Not Eligible?
Avoid applying if you fall into these categories:
- Rejected twice by ISSB
- Failed initial tests three times
- Appeared in ISSB within last 120 days
- Declared permanently medically unfit
- Diagnosed with Hepatitis B or C
⚠️ Also, candidates trained at private ISSB coaching centers may be disqualified.
📂 Documents Required
Bring the following on test day:
- Original academic certificates
- CNIC or B-Form (with guardian CNIC)
- 3 attested passport-size photos
- Attested photocopies of all documents
For repeaters: ISSB “Not Recommended” letter is required.
🌍 Overseas Candidates
If you’re living abroad:
- Apply through the Pakistani Embassy
- Submit forms before July 01, 2026
- Provide a Pakistani mailing address for ISSB communication
🎯 Final Advice
The PMA Long Course is not just a job opportunity—it’s a commitment to discipline, leadership, and service to the nation. If you meet the criteria, apply with confidence and start preparing early for both written and physical tests.
