Overview of AFCAT 01/2026 Notification
The AFCAT 01/2026 Notification has officially been released by the Indian Air Force (IAF), inviting Indian citizens — both men and women — to serve the nation as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers in Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches.
The application process begins on 17 November 2025 and will close on 14 December 2025. The written examination is scheduled for 31 January 2026 (Saturday). This cycle offers career-defining opportunities under Permanent Commission (PC) and Short Service Commission (SSC), with courses commencing in January 2027.
If you dream of wearing the Air Force uniform, soaring the skies, and serving the nation, this recruitment is your gateway to one of India’s most prestigious armed forces.
Understanding the Air Force Common Admission Test
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is a national-level entrance examination conducted twice a year — in February and August — for recruiting candidates into various branches of the Indian Air Force.
It assesses aspirants on general awareness, reasoning, verbal ability, numerical aptitude, and military aptitude. Candidates who qualify in the written exam proceed to the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) for interviews, medical tests, and final selection.
Important Dates and Application Summary
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start | 17 November 2025 (1100 hrs) |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 14 December 2025 (2330 hrs) |
| AFCAT 01/2026 Exam Date | 31 January 2026 (Saturday) |
| Admit Card Release | 22 January 2026 onwards |
| Course Commencement | January 2027 |
| Official Website | https://afcat.edcil.co.in |
AFCAT 01/2026 Notification: Purpose and Overview
The AFCAT 01/2026 Notification aims to select highly motivated and skilled young men and women to serve as officers in the Flying Branch and Ground Duty Branches (Technical and Non-Technical).
This recruitment ensures the Indian Air Force maintains its tradition of professionalism, discipline, and cutting-edge expertise, keeping India’s air defense strong and future-ready.
Branches and Vacancies
| Branch | Men (PC) | Women (PC) | Men (SSC) | Women (SSC) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flying | – | – | 34 | 04 |
| Ground Duty (Technical) AE (L) | 03 | 03 | 100 | 23 |
| Ground Duty (Technical) AE (M) | 09 | 03 | 38 | 09 |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) WS, Admin, Lgs, Accts, Edn, Met | – | – | 89 | 25 |
| NCC Special Entry (Flying) | 10% of CDSE/AFCAT seats | – | – | – |
Vacancies are provisional and may change according to service requirements.
Educational Qualification and Age Limit
Flying Branch:
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10+2 with Physics and Mathematics (min 50% each).
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Graduation (min 3 years) with 60% marks OR B.E./B.Tech with 60%.
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Age: 20 to 24 years (extendable up to 26 years for CPL holders).
Ground Duty (Technical):
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10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
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Four-year engineering degree with 60%.
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Age: 20 to 26 years.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical):
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Graduation with 60% in relevant discipline (Admin, Accounts, Logistics, etc.).
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Age: 20 to 26 years.
Nationality and Marital Status
Only Indian citizens under the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955, are eligible.
Candidates must be unmarried during application and training. Those who marry during training will be disqualified and must refund all government expenses.
AFCAT 01/2026 Flying Branch
The Flying Branch offers one of the most thrilling roles in the IAF. Candidates must clear the Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) test and meet strict medical and vision standards. Those holding valid DGCA CPL enjoy an upper age relaxation of 2 years.
Ground Duty (Technical) Eligibility – AE (L) and AE (M)
Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics) – AE (L):
Engineering degrees accepted in:
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Computer Engineering
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Information Technology
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Electronics and Communication
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Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
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Power Electronics
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Cyber Security, etc.
Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) – AE (M):
Accepted disciplines include:
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Aeronautical or Aerospace Engineering
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Mechanical and Automation
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Mechatronics
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Industrial Production
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Manufacturing Technology, etc.
Both streams require a minimum of 60% marks and 50% in Maths and Physics at 10+2 level.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Eligibility
Administration & Logistics: Any graduate with 60%.
Accounts: B.Com or equivalent with 60%.
Education: Postgraduate degree with 50% (and 60% in graduation).
Meteorology: B.Sc with Physics & Math or B.E./B.Tech in relevant streams.
Weapon Systems Branch: Graduation in any discipline with 60% marks or B.E./B.Tech degree.
NCC Special Entry
Candidates with NCC Air Wing Senior Division ‘C’ Certificate can apply for direct entry into the Flying Branch. No written test is required. They are directly called for AFSB Interview.
Type of Commission
Permanent Commission (PC):
Granted to men and women in select technical branches. Officers serve until superannuation.
Short Service Commission (SSC):
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Flying Branch: 14 years (no extension).
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Ground Duty (Tech/Non-Tech): 10 years + 4 years extension (based on merit and vacancy).
Physical and Medical Standards
Candidates must meet physical fitness and medical standards as per Appendix A of the notification. Key criteria:
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Height: 162.5 cm (Flying), 157.5 cm (Ground Duty).
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Vision: 6/6 in one eye, 6/9 in the other.
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No history of asthma, epilepsy, or major surgery.
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Tattoos allowed only on inner forearms per IAF guidelines.
How to Apply for AFCAT 01/2026
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Visit https://afcat.edcil.co.in.
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Click on “AFCAT 01/2026 Apply Online.”
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Register using a valid mobile number and email ID.
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Fill out personal, academic, and communication details.
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Upload scanned photo, signature, and thumb impression.
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Pay the application fee online.
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Verify and submit the application.
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Save a PDF copy of the completed form.
Documents Required
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Passport-size photograph (100–200 KB).
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Signature (80–150 KB).
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Thumb impression (50–100 KB).
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Educational certificates.
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Aadhaar card (last four digits).
Application Fee
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₹550 + GST (18%) for AFCAT entry.
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No fee for NCC special entry candidates.
Payments accepted via Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. No offline mode allowed.
AFCAT Exam Date and Schedule
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Reporting Time | 0800 hrs |
| Gate Close | 0930 hrs |
| Exam Duration | 1000 hrs – 1200 hrs |
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Max Marks | 300 |
| Negative Marking | –1 for each wrong answer |
AFCAT Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 25 | 75 |
| Verbal Ability (English) | 25 | 75 |
| Numerical Ability | 25 | 75 |
| Reasoning & Military Aptitude | 25 | 75 |
AFCAT Syllabus
English: Grammar, Vocabulary, Synonyms, Antonyms, Cloze Test.
General Awareness: Current Affairs, Polity, Science, Sports.
Numerical Ability: Percentages, Time-Speed, Probability.
Reasoning: Verbal and Non-verbal logical reasoning.
Selection Process
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Written Exam (AFCAT 01/2026) – 31 Jan 2026.
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AFSB Interview – Psychological Test, Group Discussion, and Personal Interview.
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Medical Examination – Conducted by Central Medical Establishments.
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Final Merit List – Based on cumulative performance.
AFSB Testing and Interview Guidance
The AFSB selection consists of two stages:
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Stage I: Intelligence and Picture Perception Tests.
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Stage II: Psychological Tests, Group Tasks, and Personal Interview.
Candidates recommended after Stage II undergo medical testing before the final merit list.
Physical Fitness Standards
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1.6 km run in 10 minutes.
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10 push-ups and 3 chin-ups.
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No visible tattoos except on forearms (for tribal candidates, traditional tattoos are allowed with certification).
Tattoo and Medical Policy
Tattoos are permissible only on the inner side of forearms. Tattoos elsewhere, or those with offensive symbols, are strictly banned.
How to Download AFCAT Admit Card
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Visit https://afcat.edcil.co.in.
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Click on “Download AFCAT 01/2026 Admit Card.”
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Enter login credentials.
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Verify details and print your admit card.
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Carry photo ID and two passport photos on exam day.
AFCAT 01/2026 Notification
The AFCAT 01/2026 Notification is more than just a recruitment drive — it’s a call to serve the nation with honor and pride. This comprehensive process ensures only the finest candidates join the ranks of the Indian Air Force, safeguarding India’s skies and sovereignty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the last date to apply for AFCAT 01/2026?
The last date is 14 December 2025 (2330 hrs).
When will the AFCAT 01/2026 exam be conducted?
The written exam will be held on 31 January 2026 (Saturday).
Is there any age relaxation for CPL holders?
Yes, CPL holders can apply up to 26 years of age.
Can final-year students apply for AFCAT 01/2026?
Yes, if they have no backlogs and will complete their degree by 30 November 2026.
What is the exam fee?
₹550 + GST (non-refundable). No fee for NCC special entry.
What is the mode of examination?
Online, computer-based test (CBT).
Conclusion
The AFCAT 01/2026 Notification is your ticket to an extraordinary career filled with discipline, adventure, and national pride. The Indian Air Force provides not only a profession but also a purpose — to serve and protect with courage and integrity.
Eligible candidates should prepare diligently, maintain fitness, and apply well before the deadline. Joining the IAF is not just a job — it’s a lifetime commitment to excellence and nation-building.