NATS
Last updated: 27 July 2026
National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS)
The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) is a flagship initiative of the Government of India that provides practical industrial training to Graduate, Diploma and Degree holders through recognised establishments across the country.
Quick Highlights
- Government of India Scheme
- Graduate & Diploma Apprentices
- Industry Training
- Monthly Stipend
- Certificate After Completion
- Better Employment Opportunities
Government Quick Facts
A snapshot of the scheme’s key details. Always confirm current information on the official portal before applying.
| Scheme Name | National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) |
|---|---|
| Ministry | Ministry of Education, Government of India |
| Implementing Authority | Board of Apprenticeship Training (BOAT/BOPT), in coordination with participating establishments |
| Scheme Type | Central Government Apprenticeship & Skill Development Scheme |
| Eligible Candidates | Graduate, Diploma and Engineering apprentices from recognised institutions |
| Duration | Varies by discipline and establishment, generally several months to one year |
| Certificate | Recognised apprenticeship completion certificate, subject to successful assessment |
| Stipend | Monthly stipend as per applicable apprenticeship guidelines (amount varies by discipline and establishment) |
| Application Mode | Online, through the official NATS Portal |
| Official Website | nats.education.gov.in |
About NATS
Understanding the purpose, working and value of the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme.
Objectives
NATS aims to bridge the gap between academic education and practical industry experience by giving Graduate, Diploma and Engineering candidates structured, hands-on training in real workplace environments.
Purpose of NATS
The scheme was created to make fresh graduates and diploma holders job-ready by exposing them to real technical and professional environments before they enter full-time employment, while giving establishments a structured way to train future talent.
How the Scheme Works
Eligible candidates register on the official NATS Portal, build a profile with their qualifications, and apply to apprenticeship opportunities posted by participating establishments. Selected candidates undergo a structured period of on-the-job training, receive a monthly stipend, and are assessed at the end of the programme for certification.
Benefits for Students
Structured, paid industrial training, real workplace exposure, and a recognised certificate that strengthens future employability.
Benefits for Industries
A steady pipeline of technically trained graduates and diploma holders ready to contribute to production, engineering and technical operations.
Benefits for Employers
A structured, cost-effective way to evaluate and train future employees according to organisational requirements, with Government-backed guidelines.
Key Features of NATS
What makes the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme distinct from other training programmes.
🏭 Practical Industry Training
Hands-on, workplace-based learning under experienced professionals in real industrial settings.
🔧 Industry Exposure
Direct exposure to real technical processes, equipment and workplace culture across multiple disciplines.
🏛️ Government Initiative
Implemented with the support of the Ministry of Education to improve employability among graduates and diploma holders.
💰 Monthly Stipend
Apprentices receive a monthly stipend while undergoing structured industrial training.
📜 National Certificate
A recognised apprenticeship completion certificate issued on successful completion and assessment.
🚀 Career Development
A structured pathway from academic study to professional, technical employment.
📈 Skill Enhancement
Development of technical, communication and workplace skills required by modern industries.
💼 Better Employability
Real industrial experience that strengthens a candidate’s profile for long-term career opportunities.
Eligibility Matrix
General eligibility patterns seen across NATS apprenticeship opportunities. Eligibility ultimately depends on the employer and the official notification.
| Candidate Category | Typically Eligible | Common Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma Holders | Yes | Technician-level engineering & production apprenticeships |
| Degree Holders | Yes | Technical, administrative & professional apprenticeships |
| Engineering Graduates | Yes | Core engineering & technology-focused apprenticeships |
| Technical Graduates | Yes | Discipline-specific technical & production roles |
Note: Final eligibility for any specific opportunity depends on the employer’s requirements and the applicable official notification.
Eligible Disciplines
NATS apprenticeship opportunities span a wide range of technical disciplines.
| Discipline | Typical Apprenticeship Areas |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | Production, maintenance, design support |
| Civil Engineering | Site execution, planning, quality control |
| Electrical Engineering | Installation, maintenance, testing |
| Electronics Engineering | Assembly, testing, technical support |
| Computer Science | Software support, technical operations |
| Information Technology | IT support, systems administration |
| Chemical Engineering | Process operations, quality control |
| Production Engineering | Manufacturing, process improvement |
| Automobile Engineering | Assembly, servicing, technical support |
| Instrumentation | Calibration, monitoring, technical maintenance |
| Architecture | Design support, site coordination |
| Other Approved Disciplines | As notified by the respective establishment |
Required Documents
Keep the following documents ready before registering on the NATS portal.
🪪 Aadhaar Card
Primary identity proof required for registration and verification.
📷 Passport Photo
A recent passport-size photograph for your candidate profile.
✍️ Signature
A scanned copy of your signature for application forms.
🎓 Degree Certificate
Required for graduate and engineering degree applicants.
📘 Diploma Certificate
Required for diploma-holder applicants.
📄 Semester Mark Sheets
Mark sheets for each semester of your qualifying course.
🏫 Bonafide Certificate
Required if applicable, confirming enrolment status at your institution.
🏦 Bank Passbook
Bank account details and IFSC code for stipend disbursement.
📱 Mobile Number & Email ID
An active mobile number and email address for verification and updates.
Application Timeline
The typical journey from registration to certification.
- 1
Registration
Create a candidate account on the official NATS Portal.
- 2
Email Verification
Verify your email address and mobile number to activate your account.
- 3
Profile Completion
Add personal details, educational qualifications and bank information to your profile.
- 4
Document Upload
Upload identity, educational and bank documents as required.
- 5
Search Opportunities
Browse available apprenticeship opportunities by discipline, state or establishment.
- 6
Apply Online
Submit applications to relevant apprenticeship opportunities.
- 7
Employer Review
Participating establishments review applications and shortlist suitable candidates.
- 8
Selection
Shortlisted candidates are selected, subject to establishment requirements.
- 9
Contract Generation
An apprenticeship contract is generated between the candidate and establishment.
- 10
Training Begins
Structured on-the-job training begins as per the agreed schedule.
- 11
Assessment
Candidates undergo assessment on completion of the training period.
- 12
Certificate Issued
Successful apprentices receive a recognised apprenticeship completion certificate.
Training & Stipend
An overview of how training and stipend support function under NATS.
Training Duration
The apprenticeship period generally ranges from several months to one year, depending on the discipline and establishment.
Practical Learning
Training combines hands-on technical work with guidance from experienced professionals at the host establishment.
Workplace Experience
Apprentices are placed within real operational environments, gaining direct exposure to industry-standard processes and equipment.
Stipend Process
Eligible apprentices receive a monthly stipend, generally credited to their registered bank account, in line with applicable apprenticeship guidelines and establishment policy.
Employer Responsibilities
Establishments are responsible for providing structured training, mentorship, and timely stipend disbursement as per the apprenticeship contract and applicable Government guidelines. Candidates should verify current stipend structures on the official portal rather than relying on fixed figures, since these can be revised.
Certificate & Recognition
What candidates gain upon successful completion of their apprenticeship.
🎓 Apprenticeship Completion Certificate
Issued to apprentices who successfully complete their training period and pass the required assessment.
🏅 National Recognition
The certificate is recognised across India, reflecting standardised training and assessment criteria.
💼 Career Benefits
A recognised certificate strengthens a candidate’s career profile and demonstrates verified, practical industry experience.
📄 Resume Value
Completion of a NATS apprenticeship adds credible, industry-relevant experience to a candidate’s resume.
Employer Participation
Why organisations across India participate in the scheme.
👷 Hiring Skilled Candidates
Establishments gain access to a pool of trained Graduate, Diploma and Engineering candidates ready for technical roles.
🏗️ Workforce Development
Structured apprenticeship allows organisations to build a workforce trained to their exact operational standards.
🔗 Industry Collaboration
The scheme strengthens ties between educational institutions and industry, improving the quality of future talent pipelines.
Training Establishments
NATS apprenticeship training is offered across a wide range of establishment types.
Government Organisations
Various Central and State Government departments and offices participate as training establishments.
Public Sector Undertakings
PSUs across engineering, energy and manufacturing sectors regularly engage NATS apprentices.
Private Companies
Private sector organisations across industries offer structured apprenticeship training positions.
Educational Institutions
Certain technical and research institutions host apprentices in specialised technical roles.
Research Organisations
Research and development establishments provide apprenticeship opportunities in specialised technical fields.
NATS vs NAPS
Understanding how these two apprenticeship schemes differ helps candidates choose the right path.
| Aspect | NATS | NAPS |
|---|---|---|
| Ministry | Ministry of Education | Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship |
| Eligibility | Graduate, Diploma and Engineering candidates | 10th, 12th, ITI, Diploma, Graduate and vocational candidates |
| Target Candidates | Technical & professional graduates | Broad range of educational backgrounds |
| Industries | Primarily technical & engineering-focused establishments | Wide range across manufacturing, services and more |
| Certificate | Recognised apprenticeship completion certificate | Recognised apprenticeship completion certificate |
| Stipend | As per NATS guidelines and establishment policy | As per NAPS guidelines and employer policy |
| Training | Structured technical/professional apprenticeship | Structured trade-based apprenticeship |
| Registration Portal | nats.education.gov.in | apprenticeshipindia.gov.in |
Government Guidelines
The legal and policy framework behind apprenticeship training in India.
Apprentices Act
The founding legislation governing apprenticeship training in India, defining the framework for engaging and training apprentices.
Ministry Guidelines
Operational guidelines issued by the Ministry of Education for implementing and administering NATS.
General Eligibility Rules
Broad eligibility principles covering qualification, age and nationality, applied alongside establishment-specific requirements.
Official Resources
Trusted government portals related to apprenticeship and skill development.
NATS Portal
The official national portal for NATS registration, applications and establishment listings.
Visit WebsiteMinistry of Education
The nodal ministry overseeing NATS and related higher education initiatives.
Visit WebsiteAICTE
All India Council for Technical Education, involved in technical education standards relevant to apprentices.
Visit WebsiteSkill India
The Government of India’s umbrella skill development platform and mission portal.
Visit WebsiteNSDC
National Skill Development Corporation, supporting skill training initiatives across India.
Visit WebsiteRelated Pages
Explore other apprenticeship and skill development schemes and resources.
NAPS
National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, covering a broader range of qualifications and industries.
Internship
Short-term internship opportunities and guidance for students and freshers.
Skill India
The Government’s umbrella mission connecting various skill development schemes.
PMKVY
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, the flagship short-term skill training scheme.
FAQ
Answers to common questions about registration, eligibility, stipend and certification.
Downloads
Guidelines, notifications and reference documents related to apprenticeship schemes.
Contact
Get in touch for queries related to apprenticeship information on this portal.
Career Opportunities
Establishments across several categories regularly participate in NATS apprenticeship training. Availability depends entirely on current official notifications.
PSUs
Public Sector Undertakings across engineering, energy and manufacturing regularly notify apprenticeship openings.
Government Departments
Various Central and State Government departments participate as training establishments.
Engineering Companies
Engineering firms offer apprenticeship training aligned with core technical disciplines.
Manufacturing Industries
Manufacturing units provide hands-on production and process-based apprenticeship training.
Technology Companies
Technology-focused organisations offer apprenticeship roles in IT and computer science disciplines.
Research Organisations
Research bodies offer specialised apprenticeship opportunities in technical research fields.
Always confirm current openings through the respective establishment’s official notification or the NATS Portal.
Important Notices
Please read the following notices carefully before proceeding with any application.
Eligibility Notice
Eligibility criteria vary by apprenticeship opportunity, discipline and establishment. Always check the specific official notification rather than relying solely on general guidance.
Stipend Notice
Stipend amounts and structures are subject to change under applicable Government guidelines. This page does not quote fixed figures; refer to the official portal for current rates.
Certificate Notice
Certification is issued only upon successful completion of training and assessment as per the applicable apprenticeship contract and guidelines.
Fraud Warning
Beware of individuals or websites asking for payment in exchange for guaranteed selection, job offers or certificates. NATS registration and applications do not require payment to fraudulent intermediaries.
Official Portal Verification Notice
Always verify that you are using the genuine official NATS Portal before entering personal, educational or banking information.
NATS at a Glance
Key characteristics of the scheme’s reach and design.
Government Scheme
Implemented under the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
Nationwide Coverage
Apprenticeship opportunities listed across states and establishments.
Industry Participation
Backed by participating PSUs, private companies and research organisations.
Technical Disciplines
Spans engineering, computer science, IT and other technical fields.
Career Development
Focused on building a structured bridge from education to employment.
Skill Enhancement
Emphasises practical, industry-relevant capability building.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about registration, eligibility, stipend, certification and more.
What is the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS)?
NATS is a Government of India initiative under the Ministry of Education that provides practical industrial training to Graduate, Diploma and Engineering candidates through recognised establishments.
How do I register for NATS?
You can register by creating a candidate account on the official NATS Portal using a valid mobile number and email address, then completing your profile.
Who is eligible to apply under NATS?
Eligibility generally covers Diploma Holders, Degree Holders, Engineering Graduates and Technical Graduates, subject to the specific apprenticeship opportunity and official notification.
Can Diploma holders apply for NATS?
Yes, Diploma holders are generally eligible for technician-level engineering and production-oriented apprenticeship roles under NATS.
Can Degree holders apply for NATS?
Yes, Degree holders are generally eligible for technical, administrative and professional apprenticeship roles under NATS.
Are Engineering Graduates eligible for NATS?
Yes, Engineering Graduates are commonly eligible for core engineering and technology-focused apprenticeship opportunities.
Is there an age limit for NATS apprenticeships?
Age requirements are set in the apprenticeship notification issued by the respective employer or organisation, so candidates should check the specific notification.
What documents are required for registration?
Commonly required documents include Aadhaar Card, passport photo, signature, degree or diploma certificate, semester mark sheets, bonafide certificate (if applicable), bank passbook, mobile number and email ID.
Do I need a bonafide certificate?
A bonafide certificate may be required in certain cases to confirm your enrolment status; check the specific establishment’s requirements.
Will I receive a stipend during my apprenticeship?
Yes, eligible apprentices generally receive a monthly stipend according to applicable apprenticeship guidelines and the policies of the respective establishment.
Who pays the stipend under NATS?
The stipend is generally paid by the host establishment as part of the apprenticeship contract.
Does the stipend amount change?
Stipend structures are governed by applicable Government guidelines and may be revised over time, so candidates should check the official portal for current information.
What certificate do I receive after completing NATS?
You receive a recognised apprenticeship completion certificate after successfully finishing your training and passing the required assessment.
Is the NATS certificate recognised nationally?
Yes, the certificate carries national recognition based on standardised training and assessment criteria.
How long does the NATS apprenticeship last?
Training duration generally ranges from several months to one year, depending on the discipline and establishment.
What is expected of employers under NATS?
Establishments are expected to provide structured training, mentorship and timely stipend disbursement in line with the apprenticeship contract.
Can employers choose which apprentices to select?
Yes, establishments review applications and shortlist candidates based on their own requirements before final selection.
I’m facing login issues on the NATS portal. What should I do?
Check that you are using the correct registered mobile number or email, and use the official portal’s password reset or support options if issues continue.
How can I check my application status?
Application status can be tracked through your candidate dashboard on the official NATS Portal.
How is the selection process conducted?
After candidates apply, establishments review applications, shortlist suitable candidates, and finalise selection before generating an apprenticeship contract.
What happens after I am selected?
Once selected, an apprenticeship contract is generated between the candidate and establishment, after which structured training begins.
What does training under NATS involve?
Training combines hands-on technical work at the host establishment with guidance from experienced professionals, tailored to your discipline.
What does the assessment at the end of training involve?
The assessment evaluates the practical and technical skills gained during training and determines eligibility for the completion certificate.
Can I apply to more than one apprenticeship opportunity at a time?
Candidates can generally apply to multiple relevant opportunities through their portal dashboard, subject to the portal’s application rules.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You can continue applying to other suitable apprenticeship opportunities listed on the portal based on your qualifications.
Are NATS apprenticeship opportunities available in every state?
Opportunities vary by location and are posted by participating establishments, so availability depends on current listings in your region.
Is NATS only for engineering candidates?
No, NATS also covers other technical and professional disciplines such as computer science, IT, architecture and production engineering.
What career opportunities are available after NATS?
Apprentices may find opportunities in PSUs, Government departments, engineering companies, manufacturing industries, technology companies and research organisations, subject to current notifications.
Does completing NATS guarantee a job?
While not guaranteed, many establishments consider well-performing apprentices for long-term roles after successful completion of training.
Do I need to pay any agent or intermediary to get selected?
No. Registration and selection should only be done through the official NATS Portal; be cautious of anyone demanding payment for guaranteed selection.
What should I do if I suspect a fraudulent apprenticeship offer?
Verify any offer directly through the official NATS Portal or the concerned establishment, and avoid sharing personal or financial details with unverified sources.
Can I apply for NATS after completing my degree?
Yes, recent graduates can apply for NATS apprenticeship opportunities suited to their qualification and discipline.
Is NATS different from an internship?
Yes, NATS is a structured, Government-regulated apprenticeship with a recognised certificate and stipend, distinct from a typical short-term internship.
Where can I get the most accurate and updated information?
Always refer to the official NATS Portal and related Government notifications for the latest and most accurate scheme details.