The Indian Air Force (IAF) has released the official notification for AFCAT 01/2026 Batch Recruitment. Through this examination, the Air Force invites eligible candidates to join as Commissioned Officers in Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) Branches.
Interested and eligible candidates can apply online within the prescribed schedule. This recruitment is a golden opportunity for graduates and engineers aspiring to serve the nation through the Indian Air Force.
AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment – Overview
| Exam Name | Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 01/2026 |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indian Air Force |
| Course Type | Commissioned Officer Entry |
| Batch | 01/2026 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Job Location | Across India |
| Service Type | Defence Job |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | As per official schedule |
| Online Application Start Date | As notified |
| Last Date to Apply Online | As notified |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | Same as application deadline |
| Admit Card Release | Before exam |
| AFCAT Exam Date | As per schedule |
Application Fee
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry (All Categories) | ₹250 |
| NCC Special Entry | No Fee |
| Mode of Payment | Online (Debit Card / Credit Card / Net Banking) |
Vacancy Details (Branch-Wise)
The branch-wise vacancy details are given below:
| Branch | Entry Type | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch | AFCAT | As notified |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | AFCAT | As notified |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | AFCAT | As notified |
| NCC Special Entry | Flying Branch | As notified |
Exact vacancy numbers will be updated as per official notification.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Flying Branch (AFCAT):
- Graduation in any discipline with minimum required marks and Mathematics & Physics at 10+2 level
OR - BE / B.Tech degree from a recognized university
Ground Duty (Technical):
- BE / B.Tech in relevant engineering disciplines
Ground Duty (Non-Technical):
- Graduation / Post-Graduation in relevant fields as per branch requirements
Age Limit (As on Cut-Off Date)
| Branch | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 20 to 24 Years |
| Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) | 20 to 26 Years |
| Age Relaxation | As per Indian Air Force rules |
Selection Process
The AFCAT 01/2026 Selection Process includes the following stages:
- Online Written Examination (AFCAT)
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Candidates must qualify each stage to proceed to the next.
AFCAT Exam Pattern (Brief)
- Mode: Online (Computer Based Test)
- Questions: Objective type
- Subjects: General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Reasoning, Military Aptitude
- Duration: As per official guidelines
How to Apply Online for AFCAT 01/2026
Candidates can apply online by following these steps:
- Visit the official Indian Air Force AFCAT application portal.
- Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Log in and fill out the online application form carefully.
- Select the preferred branch and entry type.
- Upload required documents, photograph, and signature.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
How to Check AFCAT Admit Card
- Visit the official AFCAT website.
- Log in using email ID and password.
- Click on the AFCAT 01/2026 Admit Card link.
- Download and print the admit card.
How to Check AFCAT Result
- Visit the official AFCAT portal.
- Log in with registered credentials.
- Click on AFCAT 01/2026 Result link.
- View and download the scorecard or result.
Important Instructions for Candidates
- Ensure eligibility before applying.
- Fill correct details to avoid rejection.
- Submit application well before the last date.
- Keep a copy of application and fee receipt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is AFCAT 01/2026?
AFCAT 01/2026 is an entrance exam conducted by the Indian Air Force for selection of officers in Flying and Ground Duty branches.
Q2. Is AFCAT mandatory for all entries?
AFCAT is required for most entries except NCC Special Entry.
Q3. Can final-year students apply?
Yes, final-year students can apply subject to meeting eligibility conditions.
Q4. What is the mode of AFCAT exam?
The exam is conducted in online mode.
