Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has released the official notification for the recruitment of Scientific Officers (Group-A) through its academic programs OCES 2026 (Orientation Course for Engineering Graduates and Science Postgraduates) and DGFS 2026 (DAE Graduate Fellowship Scheme). The online application link is now active on the official portal.
This recruitment drive offers Engineering Graduates and Science Postgraduates a prestigious opportunity to join the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) as Scientific Officers after successfully completing the training program.
The online application process started on December 22, 2025. Candidates are advised to apply before the closing date in January 2026.
BARC Recruitment 2026: Overview
| Organization | Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) |
| Exam Name | OCES 2026 & DGFS 2026 |
| Post Name | Scientific Officer (Group-A) |
| Total Vacancies | Not Specified (Discipline-wise) |
| Job Location | All India (DAE Units) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Training Stipend | ₹55,000 per month (approx.) |
| Final Salary | Pay Level 10 (Entry Pay ₹56,100 + Allowances) |
| Official Website | barcocesexam.in |
Important Dates
Candidates must adhere to the following schedule to complete the application process on time.
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release Date | December 18, 2025 |
| Online Application Start Date | December 22, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | January 21, 2026 |
| Correction Window | February 7 – 14, 2026 |
| Admit Card Release Date | February 15 – 20, 2026 |
| BARC Online Exam Date | March 14 & 15, 2026 |
| Interview Schedule | May – June 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the OCES/DGFS 2026 program, candidates must meet the specific educational and age requirements as of August 1, 2026.
1. Educational Qualification
- For Engineering Disciplines: B.E. / B.Tech / B.Sc (Engineering) / 5-year Integrated M.Tech with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks.
- For Science Disciplines: M.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry, Biosciences, Geology, etc., with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks.
- Note: Final year students awaiting results are eligible to apply, provided they submit their final mark sheet by the specified deadline.
2. Age Limit (as on August 1, 2026)
- General: 26 Years
- OBC (NCL): 29 Years
- SC / ST: 31 Years
- PwBD: 36 Years (Unreserved)
Selection Process
The selection for Scientific Officer posts is a two-step process:
Stage 1: Screening
Candidates are shortlisted for the interview through one of the following methods:
- Online Screening Examination: Conducted by BARC in March 2026.
- GATE Score: Candidates with a valid GATE 2024, 2025, or 2026 Score in the relevant discipline.
- Tip: Candidates can opt for both screening methods to maximize their chances.
Stage 2: Selection Interview
- Shortlisted candidates will be called for a Personal Interview.
- Final selection is based solely on performance in the interview, subject to medical fitness.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
| General / OBC / EWS (Male) | ₹500/- |
| SC / ST / PwD / Women | Nil (Exempted) |
| DODPKIA Candidates | Nil (Exempted) |
How to Apply Online for BARC OCES 2026
Follow these steps to submit your application form:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to barcocesexam.in.
- Registration: Click on “New Registration” (Engineering or Science) and enter your Name, Email, and Mobile Number.
- Activate Account: Use the OTP sent to your email/mobile to activate your account.
- Fill Application: Log in and enter your Personal details, Academic qualifications, and Screening options (Exam, GATE, or Both).
- Upload Documents: Upload your scanned Photograph and Signature as per the specified format.
- Payment: Pay the application fee online (if applicable).
- Final Submit: Review all details and click “Final Submission”.
- Print: Save the PDF of the application form for future reference.
Important Official Links
| Link Description | Direct Link |
| Apply Online (Login/Register) | Click Here to Apply |
| Download Official Notification PDF | Download Brochure |
| Official Website | barc.gov.in |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I apply if I am in the final year of my engineering degree?
Ans: Yes, final year students are eligible to apply for BARC OCES 2026.
Q2: Is the GATE score mandatory for BARC 2026?
Ans: No, GATE is not mandatory. You can get selected by clearing the BARC Online Exam. However, having a valid GATE score gives you an additional chance for screening.
Q3: What is the salary of a BARC Scientific Officer?
Ans: After successful training, Scientific Officers are placed in Level 10 of the 7th Pay Commission with a basic pay of ₹56,100. Total monthly emoluments including allowances are approximately ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,35,000.
Q4: Can I apply for both OCES and DGFS?
Ans: Yes, there is a common application form for both. DGFS is offered to select candidates based on their interview performance and admission to partner institutes.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is based on the latest official notification available as of December 2025. Candidates are strongly advised to verify all dates, eligibility criteria, and fee details directly from the official BARC website (barcocesexam.in) before applying. We are not responsible for any technical errors or changes in the recruitment process.
