College of Nursing Command Hospital Air Force Bengaluru: 2026 Admission Guide
- Jan 3
- 4 min read
The College of Nursing Command Hospital Air Force Bengaluru stands as a beacon of excellence in the medical domain, merging rigorous military discipline with advanced healthcare education. As we move into 2026, the demand for highly skilled nursing officers in the Indian Armed Forces has never been higher. Run by the Indian Air Force and funded by the Ministry of Defence, this premier institution offers more than just a degree; it offers a career of honor, service, and professional growth.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore everything you need to know about the 2026 academic cycle, including the updated admission process, course details, and the unique lifestyle of a nursing student in the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS).
Overview of College of Nursing Command Hospital Air Force Bengaluru
Established in 1968, the college is an integral part of the Command Hospital Air Force (CHAF) complex in Bengaluru, which was itself established in 1977. This institution is affiliated with the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) and maintains strict adherence to the standards set by the Indian Nursing Council (INC) and the Karnataka Nursing Council (KNC).
Feature | Details (2026 Update) |
|---|---|
Institution Type | Government (Ministry of Defence / AFMS) |
Location | Airport Road, Agram Post, Bengaluru, Karnataka |
Gender Eligibility | Female Only (for B.Sc. Nursing) |
Affiliation | Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) |
Bed Capacity | 800-bed Tertiary Care Hospital |
2026 Admission Process: How to Join the Military Nursing Service (MNS)
The admission landscape for the College of Nursing Command Hospital Air Force Bengaluru has evolved. In 2026, the selection process is multi-tiered, ensuring that only the most capable and medically fit candidates are commissioned into the service.
1. The NEET UG 2026 Requirement
The most critical step is qualifying for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) 2026. Since 2022, the Directorate General of Medical Services (DGMS) has mandated NEET scores as the primary screening criterion. You must aim for a competitive score to meet the cutoff for the AFMS nursing colleges.
2. Online Registration
Once NEET results are declared, candidates must register on the official Indian Army recruitment portal.
3. Screening: ToGIGE and PAT
Shortlisted candidates are called for a second stage of testing, which includes:
ToGIGE (Test of General Intelligence and General English):
A computer-based test consisting of 40 MCQs (80 marks) to be completed in 30 minutes.
PAT (Psychological Assessment Test):
A specialized test designed to assess the candidate's mental aptitude and suitability for military life.
4. Interview and Medical Examination
Successful candidates proceed to a personal interview. The final hurdle is the Medical Fitness Test. Given the medical domain's demands, candidates must meet specific height (minimum 152 cm) and vision standards.
Courses Offered and Seat Intake for 2026
The college focuses on undergraduate and specialized post-basic programs to ensure a steady stream of expert nursing officers for the Indian Air Force.
B.Sc. Nursing (4-Year Degree)
This is the flagship program with an intake of 40 seats. The curriculum covers advanced medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, psychiatric nursing, and community health.
Post-Basic Diploma Courses
For registered nurses looking to specialize, the college offers one-year diploma programs:
Nurse Practitioner in Midwifery:
20 Seats
Emergency and Disaster Nursing:
20 Seats
These specializations are highly relevant in 2026, focusing on the latest trauma care protocols and emergency response technologies.
Life at the Campus: Facilities and Clinical Training
Students at the College of Nursing Command Hospital Air Force Bengaluru benefit from a state-of-the-art learning environment. The 800-bed tertiary care hospital serves as a live classroom where students gain hands-on experience in various departments, including Cardiology, Oncology, and Nephrology.
Infrastructure:
Modernized classrooms with smart-board technology and high-fidelity simulation labs.
Hostel:
Mandatory residential facility with a focus on discipline, fitness, and camaraderie.
Library:
A vast repository of medical journals, digital databases, and the latest nursing research papers.
Conclusion
Choosing the College of Nursing Command Hospital Air Force Bengaluru is a commitment to excellence. Unlike private institutions, this government-funded college provides a "Commission" rather than just a "Placement." In 2026, as the healthcare sector integrates more AI and advanced diagnostics, the clinical training at Command Hospital ensures that you are at the forefront of medical technology while maintaining the core values of the Indian Air Force.
FAQs
1.Is NEET mandatory for admission to the College of Nursing Command Hospital Air Force Bengaluru in 2026?
Yes, qualifying for the NEET UG 2026 is mandatory. Candidates are shortlisted for the interview and ToGIGE based on their NEET scores.
2.Can male candidates apply for B.Sc. Nursing at this college?
No, the B.Sc. Nursing program at the College of Nursing Command Hospital Air Force Bengaluru is currently open only to female candidates who are unmarried, widowed, or legally separated without encumbrances.
3.What is the service bond for MNS officers?
Selected candidates are required to sign a service bond to serve in the Military Nursing Service (MNS) as commissioned officers for a specified period after successfully completing their training.
4.What are the career prospects after graduation?
Upon completion, students are commissioned as Lieutenants in the MNS. They receive a competitive salary (starting at approx. ₹56,100 + allowances) and have opportunities for further specialization and promotions within the Armed Forces.
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