Dreaming of serving the nation in the skies? The Indian Air Force (IAF) has just announced a golden opportunity for aspirants looking to join its prestigious ranks. The IAF AFCAT 01/2026 notification is released, inviting online applications for 340 vacancies across Flying, Ground Duty (Technical/Non-Technical), and NCC Special Entry branches.
Applications open on 17 November 2025 and close on 14 December 2025, while the AFCAT Exam will be conducted on 31 January 2026. Candidates meeting the required qualifications and age criteria can apply online through the official website – afcat.edcil.co.in.
Overview 📝
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Exam Name | Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT 01/2026) |
| Post Name | Commissioned Officers (Flying & Ground Duty) |
| Total Vacancies | 340 |
| Qualification Required | Any Graduate / B.E. / B.Tech / Post Graduate |
| Salary Range | Rs. 56,100 – 1,77,500 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Start Date to Apply | 17 November 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 14 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 31 January 2026 |
| Official Website | https://afcat.edcil.co.in |
About Indian Air Force AFCAT 01/2026
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is conducted by the Indian Air Force to select Class-I Gazetted Officers in Flying and Ground Duty branches. This recruitment drive aims to fill 340 positions for both men and women candidates.
The test is a gateway to one of the most respected and adventurous careers in India – serving the nation as an Air Force Officer.
Vacancy Details 🔍
| Entry Type | Branch | Course Number | Men (PC) | Women (PC) | Men (SSC) | Women (SSC) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry | Flying | 221/27F/SSC/M&W | – | – | 34 | 04 |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | AE(L) & AE(M) | 220/27T/PC/110AEC/M&W | AE(L): 3, AE(M): 9 | AE(L): 3, AE(M): 3 | AE(L): 100, AE(M): 38 | AE(L): 23, AE(M): 9 |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | Admin, Lgs, Accts, WS, Edn, Met | 220/27G/SSC/M&W | – | – | 89 | 25 |
| NCC Special Entry | Flying | 221/27F/PC/M & 221/27F/SSC/M&W | 10% of seats (for NCC ‘C’ certificate holders) | – | – | – |
Important Dates 📅
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 17 November 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 14 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 31 January 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | January 2026 |
| Result Announcement | March 2026 (Tentative) |
Application Fee 💳
- AFCAT Entry: Rs. 550 + GST (Non-refundable)
- NCC Special Entry: No Fee
- Mode of Payment: Online through Payment Gateway
Eligibility Criteria 🎓
Flying Branch:
- Must have completed graduation with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or possess a BE/B.Tech degree.
Ground Duty (Technical):
- Requires BE or B.Tech in relevant engineering disciplines.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical):
- Graduation or Postgraduate qualification in fields like Administration, Logistics, Accounts, or Education.
Age Limit (as on 01 Jan 2027) ⏳
| Branch | Age Range | Date of Birth Between |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 20 to 24 years | 02 Jan 2003 – 01 Jan 2007 |
| CPL License Holders | Up to 26 years | 02 Jan 2001 – 01 Jan 2007 |
| Ground Duty (Tech/Non-Tech) | 20 to 26 years | 02 Jan 2001 – 01 Jan 2007 |
Salary & Allowances 💰
| Rank | Pay Level | Basic Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Officer | Level 10 | Rs. 56,100 – 1,77,500 |
Additional Benefits:
- Military Service Pay (MSP): Rs. 15,500
- Fixed Stipend during Training: Rs. 56,100 per month
- Various allowances depending on branch and posting location, including Flying Allowance, Technical Allowance, Transport Allowance, Risk Allowance, and more.
Selection Process ⚙️
Selection through AFCAT is a multi-stage process:
Stage I: Screening Test
- Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test
- Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PP&DT)
- Candidates qualifying Stage I proceed to Stage II.
Stage II: Psychological and Group Testing
- Conducted over 5 days including a personal interview, psychological tests, and group tasks.
For Flying Branch:
- Candidates recommended for the Flying Branch must pass the Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS). Those who have failed CPSS in previous attempts are not eligible again.
Final Merit List:
- Based on written exam marks and AFSB test scores.
- Vacancies and candidates’ preferred branches determine the final allotment.
How to Apply Online 🖥️
Follow these steps to complete your AFCAT 01/2026 application:
- Visit the official website: https://afcat.edcil.co.in
- Register: Create an account using your email ID and phone number.
- Login: Use the generated User ID and Password.
- Fill application form: Enter personal, communication, and educational details.
- Upload documents: Upload scanned photo and signature in the required format.
- Pay application fee: Pay Rs. 550 (if applicable) online.
- Submit form: Review all details carefully and click on “Submit.”
- Take a printout: Keep a hard copy for future reference.
Aadhaar card is mandatory for registration. Candidates must fill all details carefully — incorrect entries can lead to cancellation.
Training Details 🎯
Selected candidates undergo training at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, Hyderabad.
- Training Duration: 1 year
- Probation Period: 6 months
- Performance during training determines eligibility for commissioning as an officer.
Benefits of Joining Indian Air Force 🌏
- High respect and prestige in society
- Handsome salary with numerous allowances
- Travel opportunities across India and abroad
- Free medical facilities and accommodation
- Pension, insurance, and canteen facilities
- Scope for serving in various leadership and technical posts
FAQs – Indian Air Force AFCAT 01/2026 Notification Out | Apply Online for 340 Officer Posts 🗂️
Q1. What is the last date to apply for AFCAT 01/2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 14 December 2025.
Q2. How many vacancies are announced in AFCAT 01/2026?
A total of 340 vacancies are released across different branches.
Q3. What is the exam date for AFCAT 01/2026?
The exam will take place on 31 January 2026.
Q4. What is the application fee for AFCAT?
The fee is Rs. 550 + GST for AFCAT Entry, while NCC Special Entry candidates need not pay any fee.
Q5. Can women apply for AFCAT 01/2026?
Yes, both men and women are eligible for multiple branches under Short Service Commission (SSC).
Q6. What is the age limit for Flying Branch candidates?
Candidates aged between 20 to 24 years as of 1 January 2027 can apply.
Q7. Is Aadhaar mandatory for AFCAT registration?
Yes, Aadhaar is mandatory for all applicants.
Contact & Official Information 📞
Indian Air Force Headquarters
Air Force Recruitment Board
AFCAT Cell, IAF, New Delhi
Official Website: https://afcat.edcil.co.in
Final Words ✨
The AFCAT 01/2026 recruitment offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join the Indian Air Force and serve the nation with pride. Whether you are a graduate, engineer, or NCC cadet, this exam can help you turn your dream into reality.
Start preparing early, stay focused, and apply before 14 December 2025 to take the first step toward your Air Force career.