The DRDO CEPTAM-11 STA Exam is conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) through its Centre for Personnel Talent Management (CEPTAM) to recruit candidates for the post of Senior Technical Assistant (STA-B) in various technical disciplines. This examination provides an opportunity for diploma holders in engineering and related fields to work in India’s premier defence research organization. DRDO plays a crucial role in developing advanced defence technologies and strengthening the country’s military capabilities.
The selection process generally includes a Computer-Based Test (CBT) followed by document verification and other eligibility checks. The CBT mainly tests candidates on technical knowledge related to their discipline, along with general awareness, reasoning ability, and quantitative aptitude. Candidates who qualify for the exam get the chance to work in cutting-edge laboratories and research centres across India. The DRDO CEPTAM-11 STA Exam offers a prestigious government job, competitive salary, job security, and the opportunity to contribute to national defence and technological advancement.
DRDO CEPTM: Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) |
| Post | Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) |
| Category | Syllabus |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer Based Test – CBT) |
| Type of Questions | Objective-Type (Multiple Choice Questions) |
| Total Questions | Tier-I: 150 Questions Tier-II (Part-II): 120 Questions |
| Total Marks | Tier-I: 150 Marks Tier-II (Part-II): 120 Marks |
| Time Duration | Tier-I: 120 Minutes Tier-II (Part-II): 120 Minutes |
| Negative Marking | 0.25 Marks for Each Wrong Answer |
| Selection Process | • Tier-I CBT (Screening) • Preliminary Document Scrutiny • Tier-II CBT (Provisional Selection) • Document Verification (Final) • Medical Examination |
| Official Website | www.drdo.gov.in |
DRDO CEPTM: Exam Pattern & Syllabus
The selection process for STA-B is conducted in two primary tiers, both utilizing Computer Based Tests (CBT).
Table 1: Examination Pattern for STA-B
| Tier | Type | Scope / Subjects | Questions | Max Marks | Duration |
| Tier-I | Screening | General Science (40 Qs), General English (30 Qs), Quantitative Aptitude (40 Qs), Reasoning (40 Qs) | 150 | 150 | 120 Mins |
| Tier-II | Selection | Part I: Personality Test (20 mins; non-merit) Part II: Subject-specific test based on Post Code | 120 | 120 | 120 Mins |
Marking Key Points
- Tier-I (Screening): This tier is common to all postcodes. It serves as a filter to shortlist candidates for Tier-II in a 1:10 ratio based on merit.
- Tier-II (Selection): Merit for final selection is prepared solely on the performance in Part II (Subject-specific) of this tier.
- Negative Marking: There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for every wrong answer.
- Time-Bound Sections: Each section of the CBT is time-bound; once a section’s time expires, it locks automatically.
- Qualifying Marks: Candidates must secure at least 40% (UR/OBC/EWS) or 35% (SC/ST/PwBD) to qualify in each tier.
DRDO CEPTM: Syllabus
Detailed Examination Syllabus for STA-B
| Tier | Section | Detailed Subject Scope | No. of Questions |
| Tier-I | General Science | Basic concepts of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (typically up to Class 10/12 level). | 40 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Arithmetic, Number Systems, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Data Interpretation. | 40 | |
| Reasoning | General Intelligence, Logical Reasoning, Analytical Ability, Series, and Analogies. | 40 | |
| General English | Vocabulary, Grammar, Sentence Structure, Synonyms, Antonyms, and Comprehension. | 30 | |
| Tier-II | Part I: Personality | Assessment of candidate suitability (Non-merit, 20-minute duration). | Qualifying |
| Part II: Technical | Subject-specific test based on the chosen Post Code (e.g., Mechanical, Civil, Computer Science, etc.) at the Diploma/B.Sc. level. | 120 |
Technical Subject Scope (Tier-II Part II)
The syllabus for the technical portion depends entirely on the Post Code you apply for. The questions will be of the level of the required EQR (Diploma or B.Sc.).
| Post Code | Subject / Discipline | Primary Syllabus Focus (Diploma/B.Sc. Level) |
| 0105 | Computer Science | Operating Systems, Data Structures, Algorithms, Networking, DBMS, and Programming. |
| 0114 | Mechanical Engg. | Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Theory of Machines, Machine Design, and Manufacturing. |
| 0102 | Chemical Engg. | Process Calculations, Heat Transfer, Mass Transfer, Chemical Reaction Engineering. |
| 0107 | Electrical Engg. | Electrical Machines, Power Systems, Control Systems, Network Theory, and Electronics. |
| 0108 | Electronics Engg. | Analog & Digital Electronics, Communication Systems, Microprocessors, and VLSI. |
| 0103 | Chemistry | Organic, Inorganic, and Physical Chemistry at the B.Sc. level. |
| 0116 | Physics | Mechanics, Optics, Thermodynamics, Electromagnetism, and Modern Physics. |
DRDO CEPTM: Preparation Tips
- Master the Tier-I Fundamentals: Since Tier-I is the screening gateway, focus heavily on General Science and Quantitative Aptitude, which comprise the largest share of questions (40 each). Use NCERT books for Science and standard competitive math guides for Aptitude.
- Subject-Specific Depth for Tier-II: Your final selection depends entirely on Part II of Tier-II. Whether you are applying for Mechanical Engineering (0114), Computer Science (0105), or Chemistry (0103), you must have a thorough grasp of your Diploma or B.Sc. curriculum.
- Practice with Time-Bound Mock Tests: DRDO will provide mock tests on their website 10 days before the exam. Because the actual exam sections are strictly time-bound and automatically locked, practicing under these conditions is vital to avoid leaving questions unattempted.
- Focus on Accuracy: With a 0.25 negative marking penalty, avoid “blind guessing”. It is better to leave a question than to lose hard-earned marks.
- Document Readiness: Ensure your educational certificates and category documents (OBC-NCL, EWS, etc.) are issued and valid by the 01.01.2026 crucial date. Preliminary document scrutiny happens before the Tier-II results, so any discrepancy can lead to immediate disqualification.
- Stay Physically and Mentally Fit: candidates must be in good health. Notably, visual defects like night blindness or color blindness are grounds for disqualification, regardless of exam performance.