AFCAT 1 2026, AFCAT notification 2026, Air Force Common Admission Test, Indian Air Force recruitment, AFCAT exam date 2026, AFCAT eligibility criteria, How to apply for AFCAT, AFCAT syllabus, AFCAT exam pattern, AFSB interview, IAF officer recruitment, Flying branch AFCAT, Ground duty AFCAT, AFCAT registration 2026, afcat.cdac.in
Great news for all aspiring Indian Air Force officers! The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the AFCAT 1 2026 notification on November 3, 2025. This is your golden opportunity to join the prestigious Indian Air Force as a Group A Gazetted Officer in the Flying and Ground Duty branches. If you’ve been dreaming of wearing the blue uniform and serving the nation, now is the perfect time to start your journey!
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about AFCAT 1 2026 – from registration dates and eligibility criteria to exam pattern, syllabus, and how to apply online.
What is AFCAT?
AFCAT stands for Air Force Common Admission Test. It’s a national-level entrance examination conducted by the Indian Air Force twice a year to recruit officers for the Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches. Successfully clearing the AFCAT opens doors to an exciting and rewarding career defending India’s skies.
AFCAT 1 2026: Key Highlights at a Glance
Let’s start with the most important details you need to know:
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | November 3, 2025 |
| Application Start Date | November 10, 2025 (11:00 AM) |
| Last Date to Apply | December 9, 2025 (11:30 PM) |
| Exam Conducting Body | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Course Commencement | January 2027 |
| Application Mode | Online Only |
| Official Website | afcat.cdac.in |
| Selection Process | Written Test + AFSB Interview + Medical Exam |
| Application Fee | ₹550 + GST (Exemption for NCC Special Entry) |
Important Dates for AFCAT 1 2026
Mark your calendar with these crucial dates so you don’t miss any deadlines:
- Notification Released: November 3, 2025
- Online Registration Begins: November 10, 2025 at 11:00 AM
- Last Date to Apply: December 9, 2025 at 11:30 PM
- Admit Card Release: Expected in March 2026
- Exam Date: To be announced (likely in March/April 2026)
- Result Declaration: Expected within 4-6 weeks after exam
- AFSB Interview: After exam results
- Course Starts: January 2027
AFCAT 1 2026 Eligibility Criteria: Can You Apply?
Before applying, make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements. Here’s what you need to qualify:
Age Limit (as on January 1, 2027)
The age criteria differ based on which branch you’re applying for:
| Branch | Age Range | Date of Birth Range |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 20 to 24 years | Born between January 2, 2003 and January 1, 2007 |
| Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) | 20 to 26 years | Born between January 2, 2001 and January 1, 2007 |
Special Note: Candidates with a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) issued by DGCA India get age relaxation up to 26 years for Flying Branch.
Educational Qualification
Your educational background must match the branch you’re targeting:
| Branch | Required Qualification |
|---|---|
| Flying Branch | • 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics • Graduate degree with minimum 60% marks • Any stream accepted |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | • 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics • Engineering or Technology degree (B.E./B.Tech) from recognized university • Specific branches as per IAF requirements |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | • 10+2 with any subjects • Graduation degree in any discipline with minimum 60% marks |
Nationality
Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply as per the Indian Citizenship Act.
Marital Status
Both unmarried male and female candidates can apply through AFCAT.
Physical Standards
While detailed physical requirements will be mentioned in the complete notification, candidates should be physically fit. General requirements include:
- Height: Minimum 157.5 cm for males, 152 cm for females
- Physical Fitness: Ability to run 1.6 km in 10 minutes, do 10 push-ups and 3 chin-ups
- Vision: Correctable to 6/9 in each eye (for most branches)
How to Apply for AFCAT 1 2026: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to apply? Follow these simple steps to complete your AFCAT 1 2026 application:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to afcat.cdac.in – the official AFCAT portal.
Step 2: Register Yourself
Click on “AFCAT 1 2026” registration link on the homepage. Create your account by entering your name, email ID, and mobile number. Set a strong password for future logins.
Step 3: Login and Fill the Application Form
Use your credentials to login. Select your desired branch (Flying, Ground Duty Technical, or Ground Duty Non-Technical). Carefully fill in all sections:
- Personal details
- Educational qualifications
- Communication address
- Additional information
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Prepare and upload scanned copies of:
- Recent color photograph (passport size)
- Signature
- Thumb impression
- Educational certificates (if required)
Make sure all documents meet the specified size and format requirements mentioned in the notification.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
The application fee is ₹550 + GST (approximately ₹649 total) for all candidates. Payment can be made through:
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Net Banking
- UPI
Note: NCC Special Entry candidates are exempt from paying the application fee.
Step 6: Submit and Save
Review all details carefully before final submission. After successful submission:
- Download the confirmation page
- Take a printout for future reference
- Save the application number
Pro Tip: Apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical glitches!
Check AFCAT 1 2026 Short Notification Here
AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Pattern: What to Expect?
Understanding the exam pattern helps you prepare better. Here’s the complete breakdown:
| Exam Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Total Questions | 100 Multiple Choice Questions |
| Total Marks | 300 |
| Duration | 2 Hours (120 minutes) |
| Marking Scheme | +3 marks for correct answer |
| Negative Marking | -1 mark for wrong answer |
| Language | English |
Section-Wise Question Distribution
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 25 | 75 |
| Verbal Ability in English | 30 | 90 |
| Numerical Ability | 20 | 60 |
| Reasoning & Military Aptitude Test | 25 | 75 |
| Total | 100 | 300 |
For Technical Branch Candidates: An additional Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) paper is conducted separately with 50 questions for 150 marks in 45 minutes.
AFCAT 1 2026 Syllabus: What to Study?
Knowing what to study is half the battle won. Here’s the detailed syllabus for each section:
1. General Awareness (25 Questions)
This section tests your knowledge of current events and general knowledge:
- Current Affairs (National & International)
- History of India
- Indian Geography
- Indian Polity and Constitution
- Defense and Security Issues
- Environment and Ecology
- Sports and Games
- Art and Culture
- Science and Technology
- Famous Personalities
Preparation Tip: Read newspapers daily and make notes of important defense-related news.
2. Verbal Ability in English (30 Questions)
This section evaluates your command of the English language:
- Reading Comprehension
- Grammar (Tenses, Articles, Prepositions)
- Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
- Sentence Completion
- Error Spotting
- Fill in the Blanks
- One-word Substitution
- Idioms and Phrases
Preparation Tip: Practice reading quality English articles and solving grammar exercises regularly.
3. Numerical Ability (20 Questions)
Mathematical and quantitative aptitude questions:
- Number System
- Decimals and Fractions
- Percentage
- Ratio and Proportion
- Profit and Loss
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Time and Work
- Time, Speed, and Distance
- Average
- Data Interpretation
- Algebra and Mensuration
Preparation Tip: Practice calculations without a calculator to improve speed.
4. Reasoning & Military Aptitude Test (25 Questions)
Tests your logical thinking and officer-like qualities:
- Verbal Reasoning (Analogies, Coding-Decoding, Series)
- Non-Verbal Reasoning (Pattern Recognition, Mirror Images)
- Spatial Ability
- Logical Reasoning
- Military Aptitude
- Situational Reaction Tests
- Abstract Reasoning
Preparation Tip: Solve previous year papers to understand the pattern.
AFCAT 1 2026 Selection Process: The Complete Journey
The selection for AFCAT is rigorous and consists of three main stages:
Stage 1: Online Written Examination
The first hurdle is the AFCAT written test. Only candidates who score above the cutoff marks qualify for the next stage. The cutoff varies each year based on difficulty level and number of applicants.
What’s a Good Score?
- Minimum Good Score: 160-170
- Competitive Score: 180-190
- Excellent Score: 200 and above
Stage 2: Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview
Candidates who clear the written exam receive a call letter for AFSB interview. This is a comprehensive 5-6 day assessment conducted at one of the AFSB centers.
AFSB Tests Include:
- Day 1: Screening Test (Officer Intelligence Rating Test and Picture Perception & Description Test)
- Day 2-4: Psychological Tests (Thematic Apperception Test, Word Association Test, Situation Reaction Test)
- Day 3-5: Group Testing (Group Discussion, Group Planning Exercise, Progressive Group Tasks)
- Day 5: Personal Interview with senior IAF officers
- Throughout: Conference with all assessors
Key Qualities Assessed:
- Leadership ability
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving capacity
- Team spirit
- Decision-making under pressure
- Officer-like qualities
Stage 3: Medical Examination
Candidates recommended by AFSB undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure they meet IAF’s medical standards. This includes:
- Complete physical examination
- Eye tests (vision, color blindness)
- ENT examination
- Dental check-up
- X-rays and ECG
- Blood and urine tests
- Psychological assessment
Final Stage: Merit List & Training
Based on combined performance in all stages, a final merit list is prepared. Selected candidates receive joining instructions for training at Air Force Academy, Dundigal, Hyderabad for the January 2027 course.
AFCAT Salary and Career Growth
A career in the Indian Air Force offers excellent compensation and benefits:
| Salary Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pay Scale | Level 10 (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month) |
| Flying Branch (In-hand) | ₹85,000 – ₹90,000 per month |
| Ground Duty (In-hand) | ₹70,000 – ₹80,000 per month |
Additional Benefits:
- Military Service Pay
- Flying Allowance (for pilots)
- Technical Allowance (for technical officers)
- Transport Allowance
- House Rent Allowance or Accommodation
- Medical facilities for self and family
- Leave Travel Concession
- Canteen facilities
- Children’s education allowance
- Pension benefits
Career Progression: From Flying Officer to Air Chief Marshal, with promotions based on merit and experience.
Preparation Tips to Crack AFCAT 1 2026
Want to succeed? Follow these proven preparation strategies:
1. Understand the Complete Syllabus
Go through the entire syllabus and identify your strong and weak areas.
2. Create a Study Schedule
Dedicate 3-4 hours daily for preparation. Allocate time for each section based on your comfort level.
3. Solve Previous Year Papers
Practice at least 5-10 years of previous AFCAT papers to understand question patterns and difficulty levels.
4. Take Regular Mock Tests
Attempt full-length mock tests weekly to improve time management and accuracy.
5. Focus on Speed and Accuracy
Remember there’s negative marking. It’s better to attempt fewer questions correctly than many incorrectly.
6. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
Read newspapers daily (The Hindu, Indian Express) and watch defense-related news.
7. Improve English Skills
Read quality English content daily. Practice grammar exercises regularly.
8. Join Online Study Groups
Discuss questions and strategies with fellow aspirants.
9. Work on Physical Fitness
Start preparing physically for AFSB tests. Build stamina, strength, and agility.
10. Stay Positive and Confident
Believe in yourself. Mental strength is as important as academic preparation.
Recommended Books for AFCAT 1 2026
Invest in these quality study materials:
- English: “Objective General English” by S.P. Bakshi (Arihant)
- General Awareness: “General Knowledge” by Lucent’s Publication
- Numerical Ability: “Quantitative Aptitude” by R.S. Aggarwal
- Reasoning: “A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal
- Comprehensive Guide: “AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test)” by Arihant Experts
- Current Affairs: Manorama Yearbook + Daily newspaper
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others’ mistakes:
❌ Applying on the Last Day: Server issues can prevent submission
❌ Incorrect Information: Double-check all details before submission
❌ Ignoring Negative Marking: Don’t attempt questions blindly
❌ Neglecting Current Affairs: This section is easy scoring if prepared well
❌ Poor Time Management: Practice dividing 2 hours among sections
❌ Not Preparing for AFSB: Written exam is just the first step
❌ Ignoring Physical Fitness: Start exercising early
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the application fee for AFCAT 1 2026?
The application fee is ₹550 + GST (approximately ₹649 total) for all candidates. NCC Special Entry candidates are exempted from the fee.
Q2. Can female candidates apply for AFCAT 2026?
Yes, AFCAT welcomes both male and female candidates for Flying and Ground Duty branches.
Q3. Is there negative marking in AFCAT exam?
Yes, there is negative marking of -1 mark for each wrong answer.
Q4. When will AFCAT 1 2026 exam be conducted?
The exact exam date will be announced soon, but it’s expected in March/April 2026.
Q5. What is the minimum qualifying marks in AFCAT?
There are no fixed qualifying marks. Selection is based on merit and cutoff varies each year based on difficulty level and vacancies.
Q6. Can I apply for multiple branches?
Yes, you can indicate your preference for different branches while applying. Selection will be based on merit and availability.
Q7. How many times is AFCAT conducted in a year?
AFCAT is conducted twice a year – AFCAT 1 (for January course) and AFCAT 2 (for July course).
Q8. What happens after clearing the written exam?
You’ll be called for AFSB interview, followed by medical examination if recommended.
Q9. Is there an interview after the written test?
Yes, the AFSB interview is a crucial 5-6 day selection process for assessing your officer-like qualities.
Q10. Where will the training be conducted?
Selected candidates undergo training at Air Force Academy, Dundigal, Hyderabad.
Final Words: Your Journey Starts Now!
The AFCAT 1 2026 notification has opened the doors to one of the most prestigious careers in India. Serving in the Indian Air Force is not just a job – it’s a honor, a responsibility, and a life-changing experience. With registrations opening on November 10, 2025, you have limited time to prepare and apply.
Start your preparation today, stay focused, work hard, and believe in yourself. The sky is not the limit when you’re aiming for the stars!
Important Links:
- Official Website: afcat.cdac.in
- Apply Online: Available from November 10, 2025
Good luck to all AFCAT aspirants! May you soon wear the blue uniform and defend our skies with pride! 🇮🇳✈️
Disclaimer: This article is based on the short notification released on November 3, 2025. Complete details, including vacancies, will be available when the detailed notification is released on November 10, 2025. Candidates are advised to check the official website regularly for updates.