If you are a fresh graduate, diploma holder, or ITI pass-out looking to start your career with a “Maharatna” company, the Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has just released a crucial notification.
While the recruitment windows for the Northern and Eastern regions have recently closed (early January), the Western Region Marketing Division is currently accepting applications. This is a massive opportunity for candidates from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Chhattisgarh, and UTs (Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu).
With 405 vacancies and no written examination, this is one of the most direct pathways to getting the prestigious “Indian Oil” tag on your CV.
1. The Opportunity: Why IOCL Apprenticeship?
Many candidates confuse “Apprenticeship” with an internship. In a PSU like IOCL, it is a structured 12-month training program governed by the Apprentices Act, 1961.
- No Written Exam: Unlike the grueling exams for permanent posts, the Marketing Division selection is often purely based on your academic merit (marks secured in ITI/Diploma/Graduation).
- Brand Value: A certificate from IOCL carries immense weight in the private sector (Oil & Gas, Petrochemicals, EPC).
- Stipend: You earn while you learn. The stipend generally ranges between ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 (depending on the post and location).
2. Vacancy Breakdown (Western Region)
Notification No: IOCL/MKTG/WR/APPR/2/2025-26
Total Vacancies: 405
The posts are distributed across three main categories:
| Post Category | For Qualification | Role Overview |
| Technician Apprentice | Diploma Engineers | Technical supervision in Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Civil, or Electronics. |
| Trade Apprentice | ITI Pass | Hands-on technical roles (Fitter, Electrician, Electronic Mechanic, Machinist). |
| Graduate Apprentice | Any Graduate (BA/B.Sc/B.Com) | Administrative support, data handling, and non-technical operations. |
| Data Entry Operator | 12th Pass | Basic office data entry roles (Fresher & Skill Certificate holders). |
State-wise Seat Distribution (Approx):
- Maharashtra: ~179 Seats (Highest)
- Gujarat: ~69 Seats
- Madhya Pradesh: ~69 Seats
- Goa, Chhattisgarh & UTs: Remaining seats.
3. Eligibility Criteria
Strict adherence to eligibility is required. If you do not meet these dates, your form will be rejected.
- Age Limit:
- Minimum: 18 Years
- Maximum: 24 Years
- Cut-off Date: As of December 31, 2025.
- Relaxation: 5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC (NCL), 10 years for PwBD.
- Educational Qualification:
- For Technician: 3-Year Diploma in relevant Engineering branch (min 50% marks).
- For Trade: Regular Full-Time ITI recognized by NCVT/SCVT.
- For Graduate: Regular Full-Time Degree (BA/B.Com/B.Sc/BBA).
- For DEO: Class 12th Pass / Class 12th + Skill Certificate.
Crucial Rule: Candidates who have already completed an apprenticeship elsewhere or have more than 1 year of work experience are NOT eligible.
4. Selection Process
This is the best part of this specific recruitment drive.
- Merit-Based Shortlisting: There is usually no computer-based test for the Marketing Division apprentices. A merit list is drawn based purely on the percentage of marks obtained in your qualifying exam (ITI/Diploma/Degree).
- Document Verification (DV): Shortlisted candidates are called to verify their original mark sheets.
- Medical Fitness: A basic health check-up to ensure you are fit for the role.
5. Important Dates
The window is short. Do not wait for the last day as server issues are common.
| Event | Date |
| Notification Released | January 15, 2026 |
| Application Start Date | January 15, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | January 31, 2026 (Till 5:00 PM) |
| Document Verification | February 2026 (Tentative) |
6. How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
The application process involves two distinct platforms. You cannot skip Step 1.
Step 1: Government Portal Registration (Mandatory)
Before going to the IOCL website, you must register on the government apprenticeship portals to get a Registration Number.
- For Trade/DEO: Register on NAPS (
apprenticeshipindia.gov.in). - For Technician/Graduate: Register on NATS (
nats.education.gov.in).
Step 2: Apply on IOCL Portal
- Visit
www.iocl.com-> Careers -> Apprenticeships. - Select “Engagement of Apprentices under Western Region (Marketing Division) 2025-26”.
- Click “Apply Online”.
- Enter your NATS/NAPS Registration Number.
- Upload your photo, signature, and mark sheets.
- Take a printout of the final form. No fee is required.
Conclusion
The IOCL Western Region recruitment is a race against time with the January 31st deadline looming. If you are eligible, this is a low-effort, high-reward application. Even if you are preparing for other exams (like GATE or Bank PO), this apprenticeship provides a financial safety net and adds a prestigious brand to your resume without demanding months of exam preparation.