Indian Air Force AFCAT 01/2026 Notification Released – Apply Online for 340 Officer Posts
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially announced the commencement of the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 01/2026 recruitment drive. The notification, detailing the application process and eligibility criteria, is now available on the official website. This recruitment aims to fill 340 officer positions across various branches including Flying, Ground Duty (Technical), Ground Duty (Non-Technical), and NCC Special Entry. Aspiring candidates are encouraged to apply online through the designated portal.
AFCAT 01/2026: Overview
The AFCAT exam serves as a gateway for graduates to join the prestigious Indian Air Force as officers. This recruitment drive, AFCAT 01/2026, offers opportunities for both men and women to serve the nation in various capacities. The online application process has commenced, and candidates are advised to carefully review the official notification before applying.
Key Details of AFCAT 01/2026
Name of the Organization: Indian Air Force (IAF)
Exam Name: Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 01/2026
Total Vacancies: 340 Posts
Post Name: Officers (Flying, Ground Duty Technical & Non-Technical Branches)
Application Mode: Online
Official Website: careerindianairforce.cdac.in
Vacancy Details
The 340 vacancies are distributed across the following branches:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical) Branch
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch
- NCC Special Entry
A detailed breakdown of vacancies for each branch and category will be available in the official notification.
Important Dates
While specific dates are subject to official announcement, candidates should keep the following timeline in mind:
- Notification Release Date: 20 November 2025
- Online Application Start Date: To be announced
- Last Date to Apply Online: To be announced
- AFCAT 01/2026 Exam Date: To be announced
Candidates are advised to regularly check the official website for updates on these dates.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates applying for AFCAT 01/2026 must fulfill certain eligibility criteria pertaining to nationality, age, educational qualifications, and physical standards. These criteria vary depending on the branch applied for.
Nationality: Candidates must be citizens of India.
Age Limit:
- Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years (as on [Insert Date]).
- Ground Duty (Technical/Non-Technical) Branches: 20 to 26 years (as on [Insert Date]).
- Flying Branch: Graduation with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or BE/B.Tech degree.
- Ground Duty (Technical) Branch: Degree in relevant engineering discipline.
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch: Graduation degree in any discipline.
Detailed information regarding eligibility criteria is available in the official notification.
How to Apply Online
Interested and eligible candidates can apply for AFCAT 01/2026 through the online mode. Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official website of the Indian Air Force: careerindianairforce.cdac.in
- Navigate to the “AFCAT 01/2026” section.
- Read the official notification carefully to understand the eligibility criteria and other important details.
- Register yourself on the portal (if you are a new user).
- Log in using your credentials.
- Fill in the application form with accurate information.
- Upload the required documents, including photograph and signature, as per the prescribed format.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable) through online mode.
- Submit the application form.
- Download and print the application form for future reference.
Application Fee
The application fee for AFCAT 01/2026 is [Insert Fee Amount] for AFCAT entry. However, candidates applying through the NCC Special Entry are exempted from paying the application fee. Payment can be made through online modes such as credit card, debit card, or net banking.
Selection Process
The selection process for AFCAT 01/2026 typically involves the following stages:
- AFCAT Written Exam: This is a computer-based test consisting of multiple-choice questions.
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview: Candidates who clear the written exam are called for the AFSB interview, which includes various tests such as psychological tests, group discussions, and interviews.
- Medical Examination: Candidates who clear the AFSB interview undergo a medical examination as per the standards prescribed by the Indian Air Force.
- Merit List: A merit list is prepared based on the performance of candidates in the written exam and AFSB interview.
Exam Syllabus
The AFCAT written exam consists of questions from the following subjects:
- English
- General Awareness
- Numerical Ability
- Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test
Detailed syllabus is provided in the official notification. Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly for the exam by referring to the syllabus and practicing previous year's question papers.
Salary and Allowances
Officers selected through AFCAT 01/2026 are entitled to a competitive salary and allowances as per the rules and regulations of the Indian Air Force. The salary structure varies depending on the rank and branch of service. In addition to the salary, officers are also entitled to various allowances such as dearness allowance, house rent allowance, and transport allowance.
Training
Candidates who are selected through AFCAT 01/2026 will undergo rigorous training at the Air Force Academy. The duration and nature of training vary depending on the branch of service. During the training period, candidates are provided with accommodation, food, and other necessary facilities.
Important Instructions for Candidates
Candidates are advised to carefully read the official notification before applying for AFCAT 01/2026. Here are some important instructions to keep in mind:
- Ensure that you fulfill all the eligibility criteria before applying.
- Provide accurate information in the application form.
- Upload the required documents as per the prescribed format.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable) on time.
- Download and print the application form for future reference.
- Keep checking the official website for updates and announcements.
For any queries or clarifications, candidates can contact the authorities through the helpline numbers or email addresses provided in the official notification.
Benefits of Joining the Indian Air Force
Joining the Indian Air Force offers numerous benefits, including:
- Opportunity to serve the nation.
- Competitive salary and allowances.
- Job security.
- Opportunities for career advancement.
- Exposure to advanced technology and equipment.
- Adventure and excitement.
- A sense of pride and fulfillment.
AFCAT Exam Pattern
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | Not Available | Not Available | 2 Hours |
| General Awareness | Not Available | Not Available | |
| Numerical Ability | Not Available | Not Available | |
| Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test | Not Available | Not Available | |
| Total |
AFSB Interview Details
The AFSB interview is a comprehensive assessment process designed to evaluate the suitability of candidates for a career in the Indian Air Force. It typically lasts for five days and includes various tests such as:
- Stage I Testing: Officer Intelligence Rating Test and Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PP&DT).
- Psychological Tests: Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), Word Association Test (WAT), Situation Reaction Test (SRT), and Self Description Test (SDT).
- Group Tests: Group Discussion, Group Planning Exercise, Progressive Group Task, Half Group Task, Command Task, Snake Race/Group Obstacle Race, and Individual Obstacles.
- Interview: Personal interview conducted by the interviewing officer.
- Conference: Final assessment by the board members.
Candidates are assessed on various qualities such as intelligence, leadership potential, communication skills, and adaptability.
Medical Standards
Candidates must meet the medical standards prescribed by the Indian Air Force. These standards include requirements related to height, weight, vision, and overall physical fitness. Detailed information regarding medical standards is available in the official notification.
Preparation Tips
To crack the AFCAT exam, candidates need to prepare thoroughly. Here are some preparation tips:
- Understand the syllabus and exam pattern.
- Create a study plan and stick to it.
- Practice previous year's question papers.
- Focus on improving your English language skills.
- Stay updated on current affairs.
- Improve your numerical ability and reasoning skills.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay physically fit.
Keep Updated
For the latest updates and information regarding AFCAT 01/2026, candidates are advised to visit the following resources:
- Official Indian Air Force Website: careerindianairforce.cdac.in
- Sarkari Result All: https://www.sarkariresultall.in/
Stay informed and prepared to seize this opportunity to join the Indian Air Force!
AFCAT Contact Information
For any queries, candidates can contact the Indian Air Force through the contact details provided on the official website.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for accurate and updated information.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is AFCAT?
AFCAT stands for Air Force Common Admission Test. It is a national-level exam conducted by the Indian Air Force to recruit officers in various branches like Flying, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical).
Q2: How many vacancies are available in AFCAT 01/2026?
There are a total of 340 vacancies for officers in AFCAT 01/2026 recruitment.
Q3: What is the age limit to apply for AFCAT?
The age limit for the Flying Branch is 20 to 24 years, and for Ground Duty (Technical/Non-Technical) Branches, it is 20 to 26 years as on [Insert Date].
Q4: What are the educational qualifications required for AFCAT?
For Flying Branch, graduation with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or a BE/B.Tech degree is required. For Ground Duty (Technical), a degree in the relevant engineering discipline is needed, and for Ground Duty (Non-Technical), a graduation degree in any discipline is sufficient.
Q5: How can I apply for AFCAT 01/2026?
You can apply online through the official website of the Indian Air Force: careerindianairforce.cdac.in. Register, fill out the application form, upload the required documents, and pay the application fee (if applicable).
Q6: What is the application fee for AFCAT?
The application fee is [Insert Fee Amount] for AFCAT entry. Candidates applying through NCC Special Entry are exempted from paying the fee.
Q7: What is the selection process for AFCAT?
The selection process includes a written exam (AFCAT), Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview, Medical Examination, and preparation of a merit list based on performance in the written exam and AFSB interview.
Q8: What subjects are included in the AFCAT written exam?
The AFCAT written exam includes questions from English, General Awareness, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test.
Q9: Where can I find the official notification for AFCAT 01/2026?
The official notification is available on the official website of the Indian Air Force: careerindianairforce.cdac.in and also on https://www.sarkariresultall.in/.
Q10: Is there any physical requirement for AFCAT?
Yes, candidates need to meet certain medical and physical standards as prescribed by the Indian Air Force, including requirements related to height, weight, vision, and overall physical fitness. Detailed information is available in the official notification.