Becoming an officer in the Bangladesh Army is a highly respected and rewarding career path. The BMA (Bangladesh Military Academy) Long Course is a prestigious program designed for aspiring officer cadets who wish to serve in the Bangladesh Army. This 3 years long course not only provides military training but also instills leadership qualities and discipline essential for a successful career in the armed forces. Below is a detailed overview of the eligibility criteria, application process, and training opportunities associated with the BMA Long Course.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the BMA Long Course, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Age
- Candidates must be between 16 years and 6 months (16.5 years) to 21 years old as of the joining date.
- For candidates currently serving in the armed forces, the age requirement is 18 to 23 years.
- Affidavit is not accepted for age verification.
Educational Qualifications
- National Curriculum: Candidates must have passed both the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) or equivalent examinations, achieving a GPA of 5 in one and a minimum GPA of 4.5 in the other.
- English Medium: Candidates must have a minimum of 3 A grades and 3 B grades in six subjects at O-level, and at least B grade in both subjects at A-level, or have 2 A grades, 3 B grades, 1 C grade in O-level, and 1 A grade and 1 B grade in A-level.
Physical Fitness (Minimum Requirements)
- Height:
Males: Minimum 5’4″
Females: Minimum 5’1″ - Weight:
Males: Minimum 54 kg
Females: Minimum 46 kg - Chest Measurement:
For Males:- Normal: 30 inches
- Expanded: 32 inches
For Females: - Normal: 28 inches
- Expanded: 30 inches
Candidates with excessive weight according to the Armed Forces specified scale, relative to their height and age, will be deemed ineligible.
Application Process
How to Apply
Applications for the BMA Long Course are submitted online only. Candidates should visit the official website Join Bangladesh Army and click the APPLY NOW button at the top right side of homepage to initiate the application process.
Application Fee
A total fee of 2000 BDT is required, which is non-refundable. This includes:
- 1000 BDT for the application fee.
- 1000 BDT for online registration.
Candidates can make payments through Teletalk, Visa/Master Card, Bkash, Nagad, or Rocket. After payment, candidates will receive a call-up letter for the preliminary interview.
Support
- For assistance during the application process, candidates can contact the help desk at +88 01713161979 or email joinarmy.helpdesk@gmail.com.
Selection Process
Preliminary Selection
- Candidates will undergo a health and oral examination at designated military bases as specified in the call-up letter.
Written Test
Recommended candidates from preliminary medical test and preliminary viva/interview will then take a written examination covering:
- Bengali
- English
- General Mathematics
- General Knowledge
The date and exam centre for the written test will be mentioned in call-up letter. The results of the written examination are typically announced within three to four weeks on the official JOIN BANGLADESH ARMY website.
Inter Services Selection Board (ISSB) Test
Candidates who qualify in preliminary written test will proceed to the ISSB (Inter Services Selection Board) test at the ISSB headquarters in Dhaka Cantonment. This exam lasts four days, and all related expenses will be covered by the authority.
Final Medical Test
After passing the ISSB examination, candidates must participate in a final medical test to confirm their fitness for service.
Training at BMA
Selected candidates will receive three years of training at the BMA, culminating in commissioning as Lieutenants in the Bangladesh Army.
Opportunities and Benefits
- Salary and Allowances
- Officer cadets will receive a salary as per government guidelines for armed forces personnel, with additional allowances applicable after commissioning.
- Foreign Training
- Exceptional cadets and officers may be offered opportunities for foreign training upon merit.
- Higher Education
- Candidates can pursue higher education (Master’s, M.Phil, PhD) based on individual qualifications.
- Healthcare Facilities
- Officers will have access to advanced medical facilities in military hospitals, with provisions for specialized treatment as necessary.
- Housing
- Officers will be provided housing in a safe and conducive environment.
- Education for Children
- Officers’ children can receive education at military-run schools/colleges, cadet colleges, the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), and the Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP).
Special Instructions for Candidates
- Candidates are advised to prepare their national identity cards before joining BMA.
- It is recommended that candidates learn to swim prior to enrollment in the BMA.
- Candidates from Cadet Colleges, MCSK and BNCC must apply through their respective institutions.
Conclusion
The BMA Long Course is a gateway to a fulfilling career in the Bangladesh Army, offering rigorous training and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to serving your country, take the first step by applying to the BMA Long Course today!
FAQs
- What is the duration of the BMA Long Course?
The course lasts for three years. - What are the educational requirements to apply?
Candidates must have completed HSC with a GPA of 5 in one and a minimum of 4.5 in the other, or meet the O/A level requirements. - Can married individuals apply for the BMA Long Course?
No, only unmarried candidates can apply. - How can I apply for the BMA Long Course?
Applications must be submitted online through the BMA website. - What if I miss my examination date?
Candidates should inform the examination center in advance to arrange an alternative date if needed.
