The Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has invited applications for its Apprenticeship Training Programme 2026-27 at the Rourkela Steel Plant, offering 1,110 apprenticeship vacancies for eligible candidates. The recruitment drive is open to ITI certificate holders, diploma graduates, and degree holders seeking practical industry experience in one of India's leading public sector steel companies.
One of the key highlights of this recruitment is that no written examination will be conducted. Selection will primarily be based on academic merit, followed by document verification for shortlisted candidates. Interested applicants can complete the online registration process before the deadline.
SAIL Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Overview
The apprenticeship programme offers training opportunities across multiple disciplines under a one-year training schedule.
Recruitment Details
- Organization: Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), Rourkela Steel Plant
- Programme: Apprenticeship Training 2026-27
- Total Vacancies: 1,110
- Application Mode: Online
- Last Date to Apply: August 26, 2026
- Selection Process: Merit List and Document Verification
- Written Examination: Not Required
Candidates selected through the programme will undergo apprenticeship training as per the applicable guidelines.
Vacancy Distribution
The recruitment has been divided into three apprentice categories.
| Apprentice Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Trade Apprentice | 421 |
| Diploma Apprentice | 414 |
| Graduate Apprentice | 275 |
| Total | 1,110 |
Educational Qualification
Applicants must possess the prescribed educational qualification relevant to the category for which they are applying.
Trade Apprentice
Candidates should have:
- ITI Certificate in the relevant trade from a recognized institution.
Diploma Apprentice
Eligible applicants must hold a diploma in relevant disciplines, including engineering or approved professional courses such as:
- Engineering Diploma
- General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM)
- Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm)
- Radiology
- Other notified diploma courses
Graduate Apprentice
Candidates applying under this category should possess a degree in eligible disciplines such as:
- Engineering
- Bachelor of Arts (BA)
- Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
- Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
- BSc Nursing
- Other approved degree programmes
Applicants must have completed their qualifying education as regular students between 2022 and 2026.
Age Limit
Candidates should satisfy the prescribed age criteria.
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 28 years
The age will be calculated as on August 31, 2026.
Relaxation in the upper age limit will be available for candidates belonging to reserved categories in accordance with government norms.
Monthly Stipend
Selected apprentices will receive a monthly stipend based on their apprenticeship category.
| Apprentice Category | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| Trade Apprentice | ₹9,600 – ₹10,560 |
| Diploma Apprentice | ₹10,900 |
| Graduate Apprentice | ₹12,300 |
The stipend will be paid during the apprenticeship training period as per applicable rules.
Selection Process
Unlike many recruitment drives, the SAIL apprenticeship programme does not require candidates to appear for a written examination.
The selection process includes:
- Preparation of a merit list based on academic performance
- Shortlisting of eligible candidates
- Walk-in document verification and further formalities scheduled for September 2026
Final selection will depend on document verification and fulfillment of all eligibility conditions.
How to Apply
Candidates must complete the application process through the appropriate apprenticeship portal based on their qualification.
For Trade Apprentice Applicants
- Register on the Apprenticeship India Portal.
- Complete the profile and required details.
For Diploma and Graduate Apprentice Applicants
- Register on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) Portal.
- Fill in all academic and personal information accurately.
After registration, applicants should:
- Select Steel Authority of India Limited, Rourkela Steel Plant as the preferred establishment.
- Complete the online application.
- Submit the application before August 26, 2026.
Candidates shortlisted through the merit list will receive further communication regarding the walk-in verification process.
Important Dates
Applicants should keep track of the following schedule:
- Online Applications: Ongoing
- Last Date to Apply: August 26, 2026
- Document Verification for Shortlisted Candidates: September 2026
Final Words
The SAIL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for ITI, diploma, and graduate candidates to gain hands-on training with one of India's largest public sector enterprises. With 1,110 apprenticeship positions, no written examination, and selection based on academic merit, the programme is expected to attract a large number of applicants. Eligible candidates should complete their registration well before August 26, 2026, to avoid last-minute delays and ensure a smooth application process.
