Phase 1: The Online Application
The initial application is submitted entirely online, and you only need to upload a few key files. For most recent Scientist/Engineer recruitments, which often rely on GATE scores, ISRO specifies that no academic or category certificates are uploaded
at this stage. You will need a recent passport-size colour photograph, your signature, and a PDF of your valid GATE score card. The photograph should be in JPG format, preferably against a light background, with a file size not exceeding 50 KB. Your signature, made with a black pen on white paper, must also be a JPG file under 50 KB. Ensure your email ID and mobile number are active, as all future communication, including your registration number, will be sent there.
Essential Educational and Personal Documents
While you won't upload these immediately, you must have them ready for the document verification stage, which occurs after being shortlisted for an interview. The most critical documents are your educational qualifications. This includes original mark sheets and degree certificates for all semesters of your B.E./B.Tech degree. Your degree must be from a recognised university with a minimum of 65% aggregate marks or a CGPA of 6.84 on a 10-point scale. You'll also need proof of age, such as your Class 10 mark sheet or a birth certificate, and a valid government-issued photo ID like an Aadhaar card or passport.
Reservation and Category Certificates
For candidates applying under reserved categories, having the correct and valid certificates is non-negotiable. This includes Caste Certificates for SC/ST applicants, OBC-NCL (Non-Creamy Layer) certificates, and EWS (Economically Weaker Sections) certificates. It is crucial that these certificates are in the format prescribed by the Government of India and are current. For example, OBC-NCL and EWS certificates are typically valid for one financial year and must be up-to-date at the time of verification. Similarly, Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) must provide a valid disability certificate. Failure to produce the correct, original certificate during verification can lead to disqualification from the selection process.
For Currently Employed Applicants: The NOC
If you are currently employed with a Central/State Government department, a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), or an autonomous body, you must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer. While you don't need to upload the NOC with your initial online application, you are required to produce the original copy at the time of the interview. ISRO is very strict about this rule; failure to provide the original NOC will result in you not being allowed to attend the interview. Even if you secure a government job after submitting your application, you are still required to inform your new employer and get an NOC for the interview. This requirement does not apply to those working in the private sector.
Preparing for Final Document Verification
After clearing the initial shortlisting (based on GATE score) and the personal interview, you will be called for final document verification. This is the stage where officials will scrutinize every original document against the information you provided in your application. Have a file with all your original documents neatly organized: call letter, all educational mark sheets from Class 10 onwards, degree certificate, category certificates (if applicable), NOC (if applicable), and multiple copies of your passport-size photograph. It is wise to also carry self-attested photocopies of all documents. A successful verification is the final step before a potential offer from one of India's most esteemed organisations.
