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PMA Long Course 157
PMA Long Course 157. The Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul is the cradle of Pakistan Army’s officer corps. Each year, thousands of young men compete to join through the Long Course program, which offers a Regular Commission and a lifetime of service to the nation. PMA Long Course 157, scheduled for 2025, is a golden opportunity for patriotic, disciplined, and ambitious candidates to earn their place among Pakistan’s finest. This article explains everything about the application process, eligibility, benefits, and key dates to help you prepare effectively.
About PMA Long Course 157
The PMA Long Course is the Pakistan Army’s primary commissioning program for men. It is a two-year training course designed to transform civilians into professional officers with unmatched leadership, tactical, and decision-making skills. Cadets live, study, and train at PMA Kakul, located in Abbottabad, a facility renowned for producing some of the country’s top military leaders.
Upon successful completion, cadets are commissioned as Second Lieutenants, ready to serve in combat arms, engineering, logistics, intelligence, and other Army branches. The program is highly competitive, emphasizing not just academics but also physical endurance, discipline, and character.
Vacancies for PMA Long Course 157
The Pakistan Army does not publicly announce an exact number of seats for each Long Course. However, historically, hundreds of vacancies are available across the country. These slots are distributed among provinces and regions—Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir—ensuring fair representation for all. The selection process is purely merit-based, making early preparation critical for success.
Available Positions in PMA Long Course 157
The primary role offered through PMA Long Course 157 is:
- Second Lieutenant (Regular Commission)
This is the starting rank for every officer who passes the two-year training. From this point, officers have opportunities for promotions, specialized training, and participation in prestigious assignments such as UN peacekeeping missions or advanced international military courses.
Eligibility Criteria for PMA Long Course 157
Nationality
- Must be a Pakistani citizen.
- Domicile holders of Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are also eligible.
- Dual nationality holders must surrender their foreign citizenship after final selection.
Gender
- Only male candidates can apply.
Age Limits (as of 1 May 2026)
| Education Level | Age Limit | Relaxation |
| Intermediate (FA/FSc or equivalent) | 17–22 yrs | +3 months |
| Graduate (2-year program + PN/PAF) | 17–23 yrs | None |
| Graduate (4-year program) | 17–24 yrs | None |
| Serving Army Soldiers | 17–25 yrs | None |
Educational Requirements
- Intermediate: At least 55–60% marks (depending on province or region).
- Graduates: A CGPA of 2.0–2.5 or ~55–60% marks (with FA/FSc completed).
- O/A Level: Candidates must submit an IBCC equivalence certificate.
Physical Standards
- Minimum height: 5’4″ (162.5 cm).
- Weight: Must meet Body Mass Index (BMI) standards.
- Vision: Must comply with Pakistan Army standards.
- Candidates must be medically and physically fit.
How to Apply for PMA Long Course 157 Online
- Visit the Official Website – Go to joinpakarmy.gov.pk between 15 September and 24 October 2025.
- Complete the Online Registration – Provide accurate personal, educational, and domicile information.
- Select a Test Centre – Choose from Army Selection and Recruitment Centres (AS&RCs) in Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Quetta, Multan, Gilgit, or Peshawar.
- Print Your Registration Slip – Download and print the slip showing your test date and instructions.
- Prepare Required Documents – Gather CNIC or Form-B, attested academic certificates, domicile certificate, and three recent passport-sized photographs.
Selection Procedure for PMA Long Course 157
Preliminary Tests
- Intelligence Tests: Includes verbal and non-verbal reasoning.
- Academic Tests: Covers English, Mathematics, Pakistan Studies, Islamic Studies, and General Knowledge.
Physical Fitness Tests
- 1.6 km run in 8 minutes.
- 15 push-ups in 2 minutes.
- 20 sit-ups in 2 minutes.
- 3–4 chin-ups.
- Obstacle tasks such as ditch crossing and wall climbing.
Initial Medical Examination
A basic check-up to assess vision, hearing, and overall fitness.
ISSB (Inter-Services Selection Board) Assessment
A four-day evaluation including psychological testing, group discussions, outdoor tasks, and a personal interview.
Final Medical and GHQ Selection Board
Comprehensive medical tests are conducted at Combined Military Hospitals. Final selections are based on merit by the GHQ Selection Board.
Salary and Benefits of Joining PMA Long Course 157
During Training
Cadets at PMA Kakul receive a monthly stipend to cover their basic expenses.
After Commissioning
- Competitive salary with annual increments.
- Free medical care for officers and their dependents.
- Subsidized housing or housing allowance.
- Pension and retirement benefits.
- Opportunities for postgraduate education and advanced military courses.
- International exposure through UN peacekeeping missions or foreign assignments.
- Prestige, honor, and long-term career growth in one of Pakistan’s most respected institutions.
Key Information Table for PMA Long Course 157
| Category | Details |
| Course Name | PMA Long Course 157 |
| Organization | Pakistan Army |
| Rank After Training | Second Lieutenant |
| Registration Dates | 15 Sep – 24 Oct 2025 |
| Preliminary Tests | 28 Oct 2025 – 1 Jan 2026 |
| Training Duration | 2 Years at PMA Kakul |
| Gender | Male |
| Minimum Education | FA/FSc or equivalent (55–60%+) |
| Age Limits | 17–25 years (depending on degree) |
| Minimum Height | 5’4″ (162.5 cm) |
| Application Portal | joinpakarmy.gov.pk |
Conclusion – Begin Your Journey with PMA Long Course 157
Joining the Pakistan Army through PMA Long Course 157 is a dream for thousands of young men across the nation. This opportunity offers not just a career but a chance to serve with honor, discipline, and dedication. The selection process is competitive and demands preparation in academics, fitness, and personal development. By meeting the eligibility criteria, registering on time, and preparing for the tests and ISSB, you can increase your chances of success. Mark 15 September to 24 October 2025 on your calendar, apply via joinpakarmy.gov.pk, and take your first step toward becoming a commissioned officer in the Pakistan Army.