The Integral Coach Factory (ICF), located in Perambur, Chennai, stands as a pillar of India’s railway infrastructure. Established in 1955, ICF is the world’s largest rail coach manufacturer, producing a wide range of railway coaches, from conventional ICF coaches to modern Linke-Hofmann-Busch (LHB) coaches and semi-high-speed Vande Bharat train-sets. As a premier production unit of Indian Railways, ICF is synonymous with innovation, quality, and excellence in the rail sector.
In a significant move to nurture young talent, ICF has announced a recruitment drive for 1010 apprentice positions under the Apprentices Act, 1961. This initiative, launched on July 12, 2025, offers a unique opportunity for aspiring candidates to gain hands-on training in various trades related to railway coach manufacturing. Whether you’re a recent Class 10 graduate or an ITI certificate holder, this recruitment drive could be your stepping stone to a rewarding career in one of India’s most prestigious organizations.
Vacancy Details
The ICF Apprentice Recruitment 2025 aims to fill 1010 positions across two main categories:
- Ex-ITI Candidates: Those who have completed an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) course in a relevant trade.
- Freshers (Non-ITI): Candidates who have completed matriculation (Class 10) but do not hold an ITI certificate.
The vacancies are distributed across several trades, each with specific training durations:
| Trade | Training Duration |
|---|---|
| Programming and System Admin Assistant | 1 year |
| Fitter | 2 years |
| Electrician | 2 years |
| Machinist | 2 years |
| Carpenter | 2 years |
| Painter | 2 years |
| Welder | 1 year 3 months |
| MLT (Radiology & Pathology) | 1 year 3 months |
The breakdown of vacancies includes:
- Apprentice (Fresher): 320 posts
- Ex-ITI: 670 posts
- MLT/PASAA (Fresher): 10 posts
- MLT/PASAA (Ex-ITI): 10 posts
For a detailed list of trades and their specific requirements, candidates should refer to the official notification available on the ICF website.
Integral Coach Factory (ICF) Apprentice Recruitment Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the ICF Apprentice Recruitment 2025, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Educational Qualifications
- Ex-ITI Holders:
- Must have passed matriculation (Class 10) with at least 50% marks.
- Must hold a Certificate from an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in a relevant trade (e.g., Fitter, Electrician, Welder, etc.).
- For Programming and System Admin Assistant, a National Trade Certificate in the COPA (Computer Operator and Programming Assistant) trade is required.
- Non-ITI Holders (Freshers):
- Must have passed matriculation (Class 10) with at least 50% marks, including Science and Maths for trades like Fitter, Electrician, Machinist, Carpenter, Painter, and Welder.
- For MLT (Radiology & Pathology), candidates must have completed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology under the 10+2 system.
Age Limit (as of August 11, 2025)
- ITI Holders: Between 15 and 24 years (born between August 12, 2001, and August 11, 2010).
- Non-ITI Holders: Between 15 and 22 years (born between August 12, 2003, and August 11, 2010).
Age relaxation may apply as per Indian Railways regulations, particularly for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PH). Candidates should check the official notification for details.
Integral Coach Factory (ICF) Apprentice Recruitment Application Process
The application process for the ICF Apprentice Recruitment 2025 is entirely online and can be completed through the official ICF website. Here are the key details:
- Official Website: ICF Official Website
- Application Link: ICF Apprentice Application
- Notification PDF: ICF Apprentice Notification 2025
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | July 12, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | August 11, 2025 |
| Fee Payment Last Date | August 11, 2025 |
Integral Coach Factory (ICF) Apprentice Recruitment Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General/OBC/EWS | ₹100/- |
| SC/ST/PH/Female | ₹0/- (Exempted) |
Payment Modes
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- Internet Banking
- IMPS
- Cash Card/Mobile Wallet
Steps to Apply
- Visit the official ICF website at pb.icf.gov.in/act/.
- Click on the “ICF Trade Apprentice 2025 Online Form” link.
- Register and fill out the online form with personal and educational details.
- Upload required documents, such as educational certificates and age proof.
- Make the payment (if applicable) and submit the form.
- Take a printout of the application form for future reference.
Selection Process
The selection for ICF’s Apprentice positions is merit-based, determined by the marks obtained in Class 10. For candidates who passed Class 10 during the COVID-19 pandemic, proof of Class 9 marksheet or Class 10 half-yearly marksheet, duly signed by the school principal, will be considered for merit list preparation.
In case of a tie:
- The older candidate will be given preference.
- If both candidates share the same date of birth, priority will be given to the candidate who passed the Class 10 exam earlier.
Selected candidates will undergo document verification to confirm their eligibility. The final merit list and further updates will be published on the official ICF website.
Benefits of Apprenticeship
Participating in the ICF Apprentice program offers several advantages:
- Stipend: While exact figures may vary, apprentices typically receive a monthly stipend ranging from ₹7000 to ₹8000, depending on the trade and location. Candidates should confirm the exact amount in the official notification.
- Hands-On Training: Apprentices will work under experienced professionals at ICF, gaining practical skills in railway coach manufacturing and related trades.
- Career Opportunities: Completing an apprenticeship at ICF can enhance employability, potentially leading to permanent positions within Indian Railways or other organizations in the railway sector. The experience gained is highly valued in the industry.
- Skill Development: The program aligns with the Skill India Mission, equipping candidates with technical expertise and industry-relevant knowledge.
How to Prepare
To maximize your chances of success in the ICF Apprentice Recruitment 2025:
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet the educational and age requirements for your desired trade.
- Gather Documents: Prepare all necessary documents, including:
- Class 10 marksheet (and Class 12 for MLT trades)
- ITI certificate (for Ex-ITI candidates)
- Age proof (birth certificate or Class 10 certificate)
- Caste certificate (if applicable for reservation benefits)
- Signed Class 9 or Class 10 half-yearly marksheet (for COVID-affected candidates)
- Apply Early: Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Check Official Sources: Regularly visit the ICF website for updates on the merit list, document verification, and other announcements.
- Prepare for Document Verification: Ensure all documents are authentic and readily available.
Some Useful Important Links:
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Conclusion
The ICF Apprentice Recruitment 2025 is a remarkable opportunity for young individuals to gain valuable skills and experience in the railway sector. With its rich history, cutting-edge facilities, and commitment to excellence, ICF provides an ideal environment for aspiring professionals to grow. Whether you’re an ITI graduate or a fresher, this recruitment drive offers a chance to contribute to India’s railway legacy while building a solid foundation for your career.
Don’t miss this opportunity! Apply online before August 11, 2025, and take the first step toward a rewarding future with Indian Railways. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official ICF website at http://www.icf.indianrailways.gov.in/ or refer to the notification PDF at https://pb.icf.gov.in/act2025/Act_App_2025_Notification.pdf.