Candidates must possess one of the following academic qualifications:
- Passed 12th (+2 stage) or its equivalent with at least 50% marks in aggregate. (50% marks are not required for SC/ST/Ex-servicemen).
- OR Passed Matriculation (10th) from a recognized Board plus a Course Completed Act Apprenticeship.
- OR Passed Matriculation (10th) from a recognized Board plus an ITI certificate approved by NCVT/SCVT.
In addition to the above, the following Essential Professional Qualification is mandatory:
- For Percussion Instrument Player: Possession of a Degree, Diploma, or Certificate course from a government-recognized university/institute in any Percussion instrument (e.g., Tabla, Dholak, Naal, Octopad, etc.).
- For Classical Singer (Male/Female): A Degree, Diploma, or Certificate course in Classical Singing from a government-recognized university/institute.