IOCL Digboi Refinery Apprentice Recruitment 2026: 126 Vacancies for Trade & Technician – Apply Online Now

IOCL Digboi Refinery Apprentice Recruitment 2026: An Overview

The Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), one of India's premier public sector undertakings, has announced a significant opportunity for aspiring apprentices through its Assam Oil Division (AOD) Digboi Refinery. With the release of Advertisement No. AOD-DR/TA-2026-27, the organization invites applications for 126 Trade and Technician Apprentice positions across multiple disciplines. This recruitment drive is a golden chance for candidates with qualifications ranging from Class XII to B.Sc and Diploma to secure hands-on training in a reputed PSU environment. The apprenticeship program, governed under the Apprentices Act, 1961/1973, offers practical exposure in core areas like chemical plant operations, mechanical fitting, electrical engineering, instrumentation, secretarial assistance, accounting, and data entry. For job seekers in Assam and beyond, this is a stepping stone to building a robust career in the oil and gas sector. The online application window opens on 8 July 2026 and closes on 31 July 2026. Candidates must carefully review the eligibility criteria and follow a two-step application process involving the NAPS/NATS portals and a Microsoft Form. With no written examination, selection is purely merit-based, making it essential for applicants to have strong academic records. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the vacancy details, eligibility norms, selection procedure, and step-by-step application guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.

IOCL Digboi Apprentice Notification Highlights

The official notification, dated 7 July 2026, outlines the engagement of apprentices under the AOD Digboi Refinery unit. A total of 126 seats are distributed across 11 trade/discipline codes, covering both trade apprentices and technician apprentices. Key highlights include a merit-based selection process without any written test, a training period ranging from 12 to 24 months depending on the trade, and a stipend as per the Apprentices Act. Candidates must apply online through the respective portals: NAPS (apprenticeshipindia.gov.in) for codes 101, 102, 103, 108, 109, 110, 111 and NATS (nats.education.gov.in) for codes 104, 105, 106, 107. Additionally, all candidates must submit a mandatory Microsoft Form to provide supplementary details. The eligibility date for age and qualification is 30 June 2026. The notification also specifies that candidates with higher qualifications (BE/B.Tech, MBA, etc.) or those who have completed their qualifying exam more than five years before the eligibility date are not eligible. This recruitment is particularly suited for freshers seeking their first apprenticeship opportunity.

About IOCL and Digboi Refinery

Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) is the largest commercial oil company in India and a flagship Maharatna PSU. It operates the country's largest network of refineries, pipelines, and marketing infrastructure. The Digboi Refinery, located in Tinsukia district of Assam, is historically significant as Asia's first oil refinery, established in 1901. Now under the Assam Oil Division (AOD), it continues to play a vital role in refining crude oil and producing petroleum products. The refinery offers a unique learning environment for apprentices, combining heritage with modern technology. Engaging with IOCL as an apprentice provides exposure to industry-standard practices, safety protocols, and operational excellence. The organization is committed to skill development and nurturing young talent through structured training programs. For candidates from the northeastern region, this opportunity is particularly advantageous as it allows them to train close to home while gaining experience with a world-class employer.

IOCL Digboi Apprentice Vacancy Details & Posts

The 126 vacancies are distributed across 11 trade/discipline codes. The table below provides a complete breakdown:

Note: PwBD candidates can apply only against seats identified under Codes 105, 106, 107, 108 and 110.

Eligibility Criteria for IOCL Digboi Apprentice Recruitment 2026

Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Nationality & Age Limit for IOCL Apprentice Jobs

Applicants must satisfy nationality criteria under the Apprentices Act. The age limit as on 30 June 2026 is 18 to 24 years for General/EWS candidates. Age relaxation applies: SC/ST – 5 years, OBC (NCL) – 3 years, PwBD – 10 years, and additional relaxation for PwBD with reserved categories. Only the Class X marksheet is accepted as proof of age.

Educational Qualification Details for Each Trade Code

• Code 101/103: 3-year B.Sc. with Maths, Physics, Chemistry or Industrial Chemistry.
• Code 102: Matriculation with ITI in Fitter Trade (minimum 2 years, Pass class).
• Code 104: 3-year Diploma in Chemical/Petrochemical Engg./Chemical Technology/Refinery & Petrochemical Engg.
• Code 105: 3-year Diploma in Mechanical Engg.
• Code 106: 3-year Diploma in Electrical Engg. or Electrical & Electronics Engg.
• Code 107: 3-year Diploma in Instrumentation Engg./Instrumentation & Electronics/Instrumentation & Control/Applied Electronics & Instrumentation.
• Code 108: 3-year B.A./B.Sc/B.Com.
• Code 109: 3-year B.Com.
• Code 110: Class XII pass.
• Code 111: Class XII pass with Skill Certificate in "Domestic Data Entry Operator."

Minimum 50% aggregate marks required (45% for SC/ST/PwBD). Qualification must be from a recognized board/university through regular full-time mode. Distance/correspondence courses are not eligible. Candidates with higher qualifications (BE/B.Tech, MBA, etc.) or those with 1+ year job experience after qualifying exam or who completed qualification more than 5 years before 30 June 2026 are not eligible. A candidate with B.Sc. can apply for only one of Code 101 or 103.

Who is Eligible & Suitable for IOCL Apprentice Roles?

This recruitment is ideal for fresh graduates and diploma holders who are looking to gain practical industry exposure in a prestigious PSU. Freshers who have completed their B.Sc, Diploma, or ITI within the last five years and have no prior work experience will find this opportunity particularly suitable. The apprenticeship is designed to provide on-the-job training, making it perfect for those who want to build a foundation in chemical, mechanical, electrical, or instrumentation fields. Candidates with a background in commerce or arts (B.Com, BA, B.Sc) can apply for secretarial or accounting roles. For Class XII pass candidates, the data entry operator positions offer an entry point into the corporate environment. Since the selection is merit-based, students with strong academic records will have an edge. However, candidates who already hold a higher degree or have substantial work experience are not eligible, so this is essentially a platform for fresh talent. If you are a motivated learner eager to work in a refinery setting and open to relocation to Digboi, Assam, this is a career-defining move.

Salary Package & Perks for IOCL Digboi Apprentice Positions

The stipend for apprentices is paid as per the rates prescribed under the Apprentices Act, 1961/1973 and Apprentices Rules, 1992, as amended from time to time. While the exact stipend amount is not specified in the notification, it typically ranges between Rs. 7,000 to Rs. 12,000 per month for trade apprentices and slightly higher for technician apprentices, depending on the trade and qualification. In addition to the stipend, apprentices under technical codes (101-107) are provided with personal protective equipment including safety shoes and a helmet (returnable). All apprentices are covered under accident insurance. Leave entitlements include 32 days of General Leave and 12 days of Casual Leave per calendar year (pro-rata). However, no HRA or company accommodation is provided. It is important to note that completion of apprenticeship does not guarantee employment with IOCL, but the experience gained significantly enhances employability in the oil and gas sector.

IOCL Digboi Apprentice Selection Process Explained

The selection process is entirely merit-based with no written examination. The steps are as follows:

1. Merit List Preparation: A merit list is prepared based on the percentage of aggregate marks obtained in the prescribed qualifying examination (all subjects across all years/semesters). Marks are considered in descending order.
2. Preference to Freshers: Candidates who are applying for apprenticeship training for the first time are given preference.
3. Tie-Breaking: In case of equal marks, the candidate who is senior in age (older) is ranked higher. If the date of birth is also the same, the candidate with a higher percentage in Matriculation is considered.
4. PwBD Candidates: Those availing relaxation in qualifying marks are considered against reserved seats based on merit within their category.
5. Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates are called for document verification (tentatively from 11 to 18 August 2026).
6. Medical Examination: Selected candidates must undergo a pre-engagement medical fitness examination.

Since there is no exam, your academic performance is the sole criterion. Ensure your marksheets are accurate and ready for verification.

Expected Competition & Difficulty Level for IOCL Apprentice Vacancies

Given that IOCL is a Maharatna PSU and the Digboi Refinery is a historic unit, the competition for these 126 apprentice positions is expected to be moderate to high. The fact that there is no written test makes the process simpler but also means that candidates with excellent academic scores will have an advantage. The maximum age limit of 24 years and the preference for first-time apprentices narrows the applicant pool to younger freshers. The most sought-after codes are likely 101 (Chemical Plant Operator) and 105 (Mechanical Technician) due to higher vacancy numbers. Codes with single-digit vacancies (like 109, 111) will be extremely competitive. Candidates from Assam and neighboring states may have a slight edge due to location preference, but the recruitment is open to all. Preparation should focus on ensuring your academic credentials are in order and that you have all necessary documents for verification. The difficulty level is low in terms of process but high in terms of competition for limited seats.

How to Prepare for IOCL Digboi Apprentice Exam

Since there is no written exam, your preparation should center around documentation and academic excellence. Here are some tips:

• Academic Records: Ensure your marksheets and certificates from Class X onwards are accurate and readily available. If your institution uses CGPA, obtain a conversion certificate to percentage.
• Document Organization: Keep scanned copies of all required documents: age proof (Class X marksheet), qualification certificates, category certificates (if applicable), skill certificate (for Code 111), and a valid photo ID.
• NAPS/NATS Registration: Familiarize yourself with the NAPS and NATS portals. Complete your registration well before the deadline to avoid last-minute glitches.
• Microsoft Form: Prepare the information you need to fill in the Microsoft Form, including your enrollment ID from NAPS/NATS, personal details, and educational qualifications. Ensure consistency with your portal registration.
• Eligibility Check: Double-check that you meet all eligibility criteria, especially the 5-year gap condition and the prohibition on higher qualifications. If you have any doubt, refer to the official notification.
• Time Management: The application window is about 23 days. Submit your application at least a week before the deadline to avoid server issues.

Common mistakes include applying for multiple trades (which leads to rejection), providing incorrect enrollment IDs, or failing to submit the Microsoft Form. Pay attention to detail.

IOCL Digboi Apprentice Important Dates

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IOCL Digboi Apprentice Recruitment 2026

The application process involves two mandatory steps. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Step 1: Register and Apply on NAPS or NATS Portal
   - For Codes 101, 102, 103, 108, 109, 110, 111: Visit apprenticeshipindia.gov.in (NAPS portal). Register as a candidate, search for IOCL Digboi Refinery opportunities, and apply for your chosen trade.
   - For Codes 104, 105, 106, 107: Visit nats.education.gov.in (NATS/BOAT portal). Register and apply to the notification on your dashboard. Note the Establishment ID: EASTIC000002 for NATS and E01201800001 for NAPS.
2. Step 2: Submit Microsoft Form
   After applying on the portal, fill the mandatory Microsoft Form at https://forms.office.com/r/g0ZP2igeTa. Provide your enrollment/student ID from Step 1 and other details. Ensure the email ID and mobile number match those used on NAPS/NATS. Only one response per candidate is allowed.
3. Final Check: Keep printouts of both the portal application and the Microsoft Form confirmation for your records. Incomplete applications or mismatched details will be rejected.

No application fee is mentioned in the notification.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in IOCL Apprentice Application

Many applicants make errors that lead to rejection. Here are key pitfalls to avoid:

• Applying for Multiple Trades: The notification clearly states that applying for more than one trade/discipline will result in summary rejection. Choose only one code.
• Incorrect Portal Selection: Ensure you apply on the correct portal based on your trade code. Trade apprentices (codes 101-103, 108-111) use NAPS; technician apprentices (104-107) use NATS.
• Missing the Microsoft Form: The Microsoft Form is mandatory. Even if you complete the portal application, failing to submit the form will make your application incomplete.
• Mismatched Details: The enrollment ID, email, and mobile number must be identical on both the portal and the Microsoft Form. Any discrepancy leads to rejection.
• Ineligible Qualifications: Candidates with higher qualifications (BE/B.Tech, MBA, etc.) or those who completed their qualifying exam more than 5 years before 30 June 2026 are not eligible. Double-check your eligibility before applying.
• Incomplete Documents: During document verification, missing certificates (like category certificate, skill certificate for Code 111, or CGPA conversion) can disqualify you. Prepare all documents in advance.
• Ignoring Corrigendum: Keep an eye on the official IOCL website (iocl.com) for any updates or corrigendum. Relying solely on third-party sources may lead to outdated information.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure a smooth application process and increase your chances of selection.

Senior Government Jobs Editor ✓

Career Content Specialist, SEO Strategist, and Fact-Checking Writer for Sarkari Job Finders

This article has been manually researched, cross-referenced with the official notification, and structured to provide verified, candidate-centric information.

Fact-Checked & Verified