The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) is a flagship initiative by the Government of India to skill Indian youth in various trade disciplines. Implemented under the Apprentices Act, of 1961 (amended in 1973), the scheme provides on-the-job training (OJT) opportunities to graduates, diploma holders, and vocational certificate holders. This practical, hands-on training lasts between 6 months and 1 year, equipping students with industry-relevant skills.

Eligibility criteria 

  1. The applicant’s age limit must be above 16 years, as of the date of application as per the age criteria that are prescribed, and is eligible for the skill development program of NATS.
  2. The applicant should hold a degree/diploma certificate to apply for the scheme.
  3. The applicants who are already trained under any other government training program for skill development are not eligible for this scheme.
  4. The applicant should not be self-employed.
  5. The applicant must not be a dismissed government employee.

Documents required 

  1. University/Polytechnic/Registration Number
  2. Percentage of Marks of CGPA obtained in Degree Engineering/Diploma Engineering/graduation branch of study with month and year of passing
  3. Aadhar Number Except in the State of Assam (Not mandatory) & Meghalaya (Not mandatory)
  4. E-mail ID Keep your mobile with you at the time of enrolment to enter (OTP) for validation List of elective subjects studied during Diploma/Degree in Engineering / Technology/Graduation in general stream Details of additional short-term / Certificate course.

Steps to apply

  1. Visit the NATS portal at https://nats.education.gov.in/.
  2. On the homepage, select ‘Student’ and click on ‘Register’.
  3. Choose Category: ‘Student’ in enrolment type.
  4. Fill in the educational details, like the percentage of marks obtained in the CGPA field.
  5. Fill in all personal details correctly.
  6. Enter a valid and unique email ID (mandatory for all communications). Once registered, the email ID cannot be changed.
  7. Before declaring, review all entered details carefully.
  8. Click ‘Submit’ once everything is correct.
  9. After submission, the system generates a user ID & Password. The email ID can also be used instead of the username for login.
  10. Enrolled students can log in using their credentials to check their status.
  11. The portal provides access to job advertisements, job openings, and establishment details across the country. Students can apply for opportunities directly through the portal.

By offering structured, hands-on training, the national apprentice program increases employability and prepares students for real-world job roles. With its strong focus on practical learning, NATS serves as a stepping stone for students to launch successful careers in their respective fields.