Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited under the Government of India and the Ministry of Coal, has started the online registration process for Apprentice Trainee engagement for the 2026–27 training year. A total of 1,607 apprentice opportunities have been announced across Graduate, Diploma, Trade, and Paramedical disciplines.The apprenticeship training will be for one year, and selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend during the training period as per the notified rules. The recruitment is being conducted under the provisions of the Apprentices Act, 1961.
Who can apply?
Candidates must be Indian nationals who have completed the required qualification for the apprenticeship position they are applying for. The qualification should be obtained from a recognized institute, university, or board approved under relevant authorities such as AICTE, UGC, NCVT, SCVT, or equivalent bodies. Applicants must have completed their education from institutions located in Uttar Pradesh or Madhya Pradesh.The age limit for applicants is:
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Maximum age: 26 years
- Age will be calculated as on 1 June 2026. Candidates should have been born between 1 June 2000 and 1 June 2008.
Age relaxation is available for reserved categories as per notification rules:
- SC/ST candidates: relaxation up to 5 years
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): relaxation up to 3 years
- PwBD candidates: additional relaxation as applicable.
Candidates who completed their Graduation, Diploma, or ITI course before June 2022 are not eligible. Applicants must also have completed the qualification through a full-time regular course. Candidates who already completed apprenticeship training or have one year or more of job experience are not eligible.
Vacancy details
NCL has announced opportunities across multiple streams including:
- Graduate Apprentice positions
- Diploma Apprentice positions
- Trade Apprentice positions
- Paramedical disciplines
The total number of announced opportunities is 1,607. Reserved category distribution includes seats for SC, ST, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), EWS, and Unreserved categories as per government norms.
Important dates
Here’s a look at the key dates:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online application begins | 1 June 2026 |
| Last date to apply | 15 June 2026 |
| Shortlisted candidates (Merit List) | 20 June 2026 |
| Reporting date for shortlisted candidates | To be informed through email |
(These dates are tentative and may change.)
How to apply
Eligible candidates can apply online through the official apprenticeship portals. Applications submitted through any offline mode will not be accepted.
- Visit the NATS (National Apprentice Training Scheme) portal for Graduate and Diploma positions.
- Visit the NAPS (National Apprentice Promotion Scheme) portal for Trade Apprentice positions.
- Complete registration and generate your enrolment ID.
- Fill in personal details, educational qualifications, and upload the required documents.
- Check all information carefully before final submission.
- Submit the application and download/save a copy for future reference.
Selection process
Selection will be based on merit prepared from qualifying examination marks. For Graduate and Diploma applicants, merit will be prepared using marks obtained in the relevant qualification. For ITI trades, merit will be calculated using the average performance in Matriculation and Trade Certificate marks.Shortlisted candidates will later be called for document verification and eligibility assessment. Final engagement will depend on meeting medical fitness standards and completing all formalities.Candidates are advised to apply carefully, ensure all details are correct, and regularly check the official NCL website for updates and further announcements.
