PMA Long Course – Complete Guide to Join Pakistan Military Academy
What is the PMA Long Course?
The PMA Long Course is the primary entry point for male candidates who want to join the Pakistan Army as commissioned officers. It’s a two-year training program held at the prestigious Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, Abbottabad. The course is offered twice a year—usually in spring and autumn—with course numbers denoting each batch (e.g., PMA Long Course 154, 155, etc.).
Candidates who pass the selection process undergo intense military and academic training, grooming them into capable leaders ready to serve in various capacities within the Army. Upon successful completion, cadets are awarded the rank of Second Lieutenant and officially commissioned into the Pakistan Army.
This course not only tests your physical endurance but also pushes your mental, emotional, and psychological boundaries. It’s not for the faint-hearted. The Long Course turns civilians into soldiers and leaders who carry the pride of their nation on their shoulders.
Importance of PMA in Pakistan Army
The Pakistan Military Academy is the cornerstone of the Army’s leadership development. Think of it as the heart of the force where raw talent is molded into leadership excellence. Every officer in the Army who has come through PMA shares a unique brotherhood and ethos built during their rigorous training.
PMA teaches discipline, courage, and patriotism. It instills the spirit of sacrifice and trains cadets to perform under extreme conditions—be it in times of war or peace. Many of Pakistan’s most decorated officers and war heroes are proud alumni of PMA, highlighting its vital role in national defense.
It’s more than just a training institute—it’s a legacy. And being a part of this legacy means you’re contributing to the defense and dignity of Pakistan at the highest level.
Eligibility Criteria for PMA Long Course
Age and Gender Requirements
To apply for the PMA Long Course, candidates must meet strict age and gender criteria. The opportunity is open only for male citizens of Pakistan. Here are the general age limits based on educational background:
Intermediate or Equivalent – 17 to 22 years
Graduates (2-year program) – 17 to 23 years
Graduates (4-year program) – 17 to 24 years
Serving Army Soldiers – 17 to 25 years
There’s also a 3-month age relaxation available in lower and upper limits under specific conditions.
Gender-wise, it’s important to note that the PMA Long Course is exclusively for males. Females can join the Army through different commissions, but not via the PMA Long Course route.
Educational Qualifications
Education is a key pillar for eligibility. Here’s what’s needed:
Minimum 60% marks in FA/FSc or equivalent.
Candidates with O/A Levels must obtain an equivalence certificate from IBCC.
Those who secure 60%+ in BA/BSc/BBA but had less than 60% in intermediate can still apply based on higher education.
Serving soldiers can apply with at least 50% marks in FA/FSc.
Provisional and result-awaiting students may apply with a hope certificate signed by the head of their institution.
Physical Standards
The Pakistan Army sets firm physical standards to ensure all candidates are combat-ready. Here’s what’s expected:
Minimum Height: 5’4” (162.5 cm)
Weight: As per BMI (Body Mass Index)
Chest: Minimum expansion of 5 cm
Candidates must be physically fit to pass all tests, which includes running, push-ups, crunches, and chin-ups.
Being mentally sharp isn’t enough—you must also be in peak physical condition. Neglecting your physical preparation is one of the most common reasons candidates fail to qualify.
Online Registration Process
The PMA Long Course application process has become much easier thanks to digitalization. Candidates can register online through the official Pakistan Army website: www.joinpakarmy.gov.pk. The online form requires:
Personal and academic details
CNIC or B-form information
Selection of nearest Army Selection and Recruitment Center (AS&RC)
Once submitted, the candidate receives a roll number slip with the test date, time, and venue.
Documents Required for Registration
When going for the initial test, candidates should carry:
Original CNIC or B-form
Matric and Intermediate certificates (original and photocopies)
Attested photographs (passport size)
Registration slip (printed from the online portal)
Without these, you won’t be allowed to sit in the tests, so prepare your documents in advance.
Initial Selection Process
Written/Intelligence Test
The written/intelligence test is the first hurdle every candidate faces. Conducted on computers at Army Selection and Recruitment Centers (AS&RCs), the test includes two main parts:
Verbal and Non-verbal Intelligence Test
Academic Portion (English, Math, Pak Studies, and General Knowledge)
The intelligence test is all about quick thinking and pattern recognition. You’ll face questions like number sequences, analogies, and image-based puzzles. You’ll need to solve 85–100 questions in 30 minutes, so speed and accuracy matter.
The academic test varies based on your educational background. It tests your general aptitude in subjects up to intermediate level. Many candidates fail this stage simply due to lack of preparation or time management. Practice with online mock tests, PMA test books, and mobile apps is crucial. Remember—no second chances. Fail here, and you’re out.
Physical Test Details
If you pass the initial written test, you’ll be called for the physical test—arguably one of the toughest parts of the entire selection process. Here’s what you must complete:
1.6 km run in 8 minutes
15 push-ups in 2 minutes
15 sit-ups in 2 minutes
4 chin-ups in 2 minutes
Ditch crossing of 7’4” x 7’4”
These physical tasks are designed to test your stamina, strength, and agility. The run alone is a make-or-break challenge—many otherwise eligible candidates fail just because they didn’t train properly. Start your fitness training months in advance. Focus on cardio, core strength, and endurance exercises. Stay hydrated, eat clean, and avoid overexertion before test day.
Tip: Don’t underestimate ditch crossing—practice it in parks or obstacle courses if you can.
Medical Examination
Pass the physical? Great. Now comes the initial medical examination conducted at the selection center by Army medical officers. This step evaluates your:
Eyesight
Hearing
Flat feet or knock knees
Spine alignment
Chest and lungs
Blood pressure and pulse rate
Even minor health issues can lead to temporary or permanent rejection. Conditions like being underweight, unfit BMI, or poor dental hygiene can hurt your chances.
Candidates declared temporarily unfit can reappear after treatment within a certain time. Permanently unfit candidates are not eligible to reapply. So, visit a doctor at least 3 months before your application to address any potential issues.
What is ISSB and Why is it Important?
The Inter Services Selection Board (ISSB) is the final and most critical stage in the PMA Long Course selection process. It’s a 4-day psychological and leadership evaluation designed to filter out the most capable individuals for officer roles in the Pakistan Army.
The ISSB doesn’t just test your IQ or fitness—it evaluates your personality, decision-making, confidence, teamwork, and leadership qualities. It’s where the Army determines whether you have the “officer material” they’re looking for.
The results of ISSB are final—either recommended or not recommended. You only get two chances in a lifetime to pass ISSB, so preparation is key.
ISSB Test Stages and Components
Over the course of four days, you’ll undergo several activities at the ISSB center. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Day 1: Reporting and Screening Test
Intelligence test
Picture story writing
Sentence completion
Personality questionnaire
Day 2: Psychological Tests
Word association
Thematic apperception
Situation reaction test
Self-description
Day 3: Group Tasks
Group planning exercise
Group discussion
Progressive group task
Half group task
Command task
Individual obstacles
Day 4: Final Interview and Conference
One-on-one interview with GTO or psychologist
Final board conference for result deliberation
Each activity tests your thinking, speaking, emotional response, and behavior under pressure. Confidence, clarity of thoughts, and honesty matter more than rehearsed answers.