Skilled & Vocational · Trade

Welder

⚠ Estimate — needs validation · as of 2025

Welders join metal parts using heat and tools in factories, construction, shipyards, railways, and repair workshops. In India, this is a practical skill-based career usually entered through ITI and apprenticeship, with jobs in both government and private sectors.

Who it's for: Best for students who like hands-on work, machines, metalwork, and practical learning. It suits those comfortable with safety rules, physical work, and steady skill-building more than classroom-only study.

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At a glance

Entry mode: Apprenticeship
Exam shape: none
Key exam: ITI
Min qualification: ITI
Duration: 2-3 yr
Starting salary: 1.8-4.0 LPA (approx, as of 2025)
Sector: Govt/Private
Category: Skilled & Vocational

Subjects / Stream

MathematicsSciencePhysicsTechnical drawingEngineering drawingVocational/ITI trades

Step-by-step path

  1. Complete Class 10 from a recognised board.
  2. Choose an ITI course in Welding or a related metal trade after Class 10.
  3. Apply through the state ITI admission process or institute-level counselling, where applicable.
  4. Complete classroom training, workshop practice, and safety training during ITI.
  5. Take up apprenticeship training in a workshop, factory, PSU, or contractor setup.
  6. Build experience in MIG, TIG, arc, gas, or fabrication work and apply for welder jobs.

Key exams

ITI admission - entryNCVT MIS - certificationSCVT - certificationApprenticeship portal - placement

Top institutes / boards

ITI network under State Skill Development MissionsNational Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs)Industrial Training Institutes (Government ITIs)National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) partner centresCentral/State apprenticeship training centresRailway, defence, and PSU training workshops

Similar careers

FitterMachinistPlumberFabricatorSheet metal worker
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Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum qualification to become a welder in India?
Usually Class 10 plus an ITI in Welding or a related trade is the standard route. Some employers also hire skilled workers with apprenticeship or work experience.
Is there any entrance exam for welding after Class 10?
Usually no national entrance exam is required. Admission is commonly through state ITI merit lists, counselling, or institute rules.
What is the key exam for this career?
ITI admission is the key entry process. After training, NCVT or SCVT certification helps prove your trade skill.
How long does it take to become job-ready as a welder?
Typically about 2 to 3 years after Class 10, including ITI training and apprenticeship or initial on-the-job practice.
What is the fee for ITI welding courses?
Fees vary widely by government or private institute. Government ITIs are usually low-cost, while private institutes can be higher; check the current state ITI fee notice.
What salary can a fresher welder expect in India?
A fresher may earn about 1.8 to 4.0 LPA in 2025, depending on skill, city, industry, and overtime. Skilled welders can earn more with experience.
Is welding a good career in India?
Yes, if you want a practical skill with steady demand in construction, fabrication, manufacturing, shipbuilding, railways, and maintenance work.
Can girls or women become welders?
Yes. Women can absolutely train and work as welders. Many industries now hire women in fabrication, quality, and welding roles, subject to safety and workplace conditions.
Is there an age limit for ITI admission in welding?
Age rules depend on the state and institute. Many ITI admissions have a minimum age around 14 or 15 years, with upper limits varying by category and state policy.
Are there reservations in ITI admissions?
Yes, many state ITI admissions follow reservation rules for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, PwD, and other categories as per government policy.
Which stream should I choose in school for welding?
Class 10 with Mathematics and Science is helpful, but the main route is vocational training after Class 10. A technical mindset matters more than a specific school stream.
Do I need to study Physics for welding?
Physics helps because welding involves heat, electricity, and metal properties, but you do not need advanced theory to start. Practical training is more important.
What skills are important for a welder?
Good hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, safety awareness, stamina, and the ability to read basic drawings and follow instructions are important.
Where can welders work in India?
Welders work in factories, construction sites, shipyards, railways, automobile units, repair shops, oil and gas projects, and fabrication workshops.
Can a welder get a government job?
Yes. Government jobs may be available in railways, defence workshops, PSUs, public works, and state departments, usually through recruitment notices and skill tests.
What is apprenticeship in welding?
Apprenticeship is paid or stipend-based training under an employer where you learn by working on real jobs after or during ITI, depending on the scheme and employer.
Is welding physically hard work?
It can be physically demanding because of standing, lifting, heat, and protective gear. Good fitness and strict safety habits are important.
Is welding safe as a career?
It is safe when proper PPE, ventilation, training, and workplace rules are followed. Without safety, risks include burns, fumes, eye injury, and electric shock.
Can I switch from welding to another trade later?
Yes. Many welders move into fabrication, inspection, supervision, maintenance, or related trades after gaining experience and extra certification.
Is welding right for me?
It may suit you if you prefer practical work, can follow safety rules, and want early employability after ITI. If you dislike physical workshop work, it may not be ideal.

Figures are indicative and source-stamped with an "as of" year (2025). Confirm on the official exam authority website before deciding.

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