Military Nursing Service (MNS): Eligibility, Pattern & Interview Tips
Serve with Pride: Military Nursing Service
The Military Nursing Service (MNS) is not just a job; it is a commission in the Indian Armed Forces. You join as a Lieutenant and can rise to the rank of Major General. It is the only all-women officer corps in the world. For 2026, the selection process has evolved, integrating NEET-UG scores for B.Sc Nursing entry and a separate exam for SSC (Short Service Commission) entry.
Entry Modes
There are two main ways to join MNS: 1. B.Sc Nursing Course: For 12th pass students (via NEET). 2. SSC Entry: For already qualified M.Sc/B.Sc/PB B.Sc nurses. This blog focuses on the SSC Entry for qualified nurses.
Eligibility for SSC MNS 2026
Qualification: M.Sc Nursing / PB B.Sc Nursing / B.Sc Nursing from a recognized university. Registration: Must be a registered Nurse and Midwife. Gender: Female candidates only. Age: Date of birth between 25 Dec 1990 and 26 Dec 2004 (approx 21-35 years).
Selection Process
The selection is a 3-stage process: 1. Computer Based Examination (CBE). 2. Interview. 3. Medical Examination. The final merit list is based on CBE and Interview scores.
Exam Pattern (CBE)
The written exam consists of 150 marks. Nursing Subjects: 100 Marks. General Intelligence & English: 50 Marks. There is no negative marking (usually, check notification). The duration is 150 minutes.
The Interview: The Make or Break
The MNS interview is tough. A panel of senior officers assesses your personality, confidence, and clinical knowledge. You must be well-groomed (saree or formal suit) and fluent in English. Questions range from "Why Army?" to clinical scenarios.
Medical Standards
The medical is rigorous. Height must be at least 152 cm (relaxations for NE/Gorkhas). Vision standards are strict. X-Ray chest and USG abdomen are done to rule out internal issues. Being medically fit is mandatory.
Salary and Rank
You are commissioned as a Lieutenant. The pay scale is Level 10 (starting Basic ₹56,100) + MSP (Military Service Pay ₹15,500) + DA + HRA. The gross salary is over ₹1 Lakh/month. Plus, you get canteen (CSD) facilities and free medical for family.
Preparation Strategy
For the written exam, focus on Basic Nursing and English Grammar. For the interview, practice speaking in front of a mirror. Stay updated with current affairs, especially related to Defense and Health.
Why Choose MNS?
It offers adventure, respect, and a lifestyle that no civil hospital can match. You serve the soldiers who serve the nation.
Conclusion
MNS is for those who have a passion for the uniform. It requires physical fitness, mental toughness, and academic excellence.
Get Fit
Start exercising today. BMI matters.
Improve English
Read newspapers daily.
Brush Up Basics
Review your nursing fundamentals.
Join NPrep
We have interview guidance modules.
Stay Confident
Officers are leaders.
Jai Hind
See you in olive green.
MNS SSC Exam Pattern
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Nursing Subjects | 100 | 100 |
| General English | 30 | 30 |
| General Intelligence | 20 | 20 |
| Total | 150 | 150 |
Physical Standards
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Height | Min 152 cm |
| Weight | Correlated to height (BMI < 25) |
| Vision | Myopia < -5.5D, Hypermetropia < +3.5D |
| Dental Points | Min 14 points |
Rank Structure
| Entry Rank | Promotion Path |
|---|---|
| Lieutenant | On Commission |
| Captain | After 3 Years |
| Major | After 8 Years |
| Lt. Col | After 16 Years |
| Colonel | Selection Basis |
| Brigadier | Selection Basis |
| Maj. Gen | Selection Basis |
Quick Summary
Common Mistakes
Path to MNS Commission
- 1
Apply online on the official Indian Army website (joinindianarmy.nic.in).
- 2
Download admit card and appear for CBE.
- 3
Check result. If qualified, appear for Interview and Medical (usually in Delhi/Pune).
- 4
Wait for the final merit list.
- 5
Receive joining letter and undergo orientation training.
- 6
Wear the stars on your shoulder.