AFCAT 1 2026 Notification Out: Join the Indian Air Force as an Officer
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the notification for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT 1) 2026, offering a prestigious opportunity for both male and female Indian citizens to join as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers in the Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) Branches. This is the first of the two AFCAT exams conducted annually and is for courses commencing in January 2027.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the notification for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT 1) 2026, offering a prestigious opportunity for both male and female Indian citizens to join as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers in the Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) Branches. This is the first of the two AFCAT exams conducted annually and is for courses commencing in January 2027.
Key Dates for Aspirants
Candidates preparing for a career in the Indian defence forces must strictly adhere to the following dates:
- Online Registration Start Date: November 17, 2025
- Online Registration Last Date: December 14, 2025
- AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Date: January 31, 2026
- Admit Card Release (Tentative): January 22, 2026
The application process is entirely online and can be completed on the official AFCAT website, afcat.cdac.in. The application fee for the AFCAT entry is typically 550$, while candidates applying via the NCC Special Entry are often exempted from the fee.
Branches, Age Limits, and Educational Qualifications
The AFCAT is a gateway to Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officer posts across multiple branches. Aspirants, typically UG/PG students or recent graduates, must meet stringent eligibility criteria:
Age Limits (as on 01 January 2027)
- Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years (Upper age limit relaxable up to 26 years for candidates holding a valid Commercial Pilot License).
- Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) Branches: 20 to 26 years.
Educational Qualifications
- Flying Branch: Candidates must have passed $10+2$ with at least 50% marks each in Physics and Mathematics and hold a minimum three-year degree in any discipline with 60% marks (or equivalent BE/B.Tech degree).
- Ground Duty (Technical): Requires $10+2$ with $50\%$ in Physics and Mathematics, along with a four-year Engineering/Technology degree in the relevant specialization (like Electronics or Mechanical) with a minimum of $60\%$ marks.
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Requires a minimum three-year graduation degree with $60\%$ marks in any discipline, with specific degree requirements for branches like Accounts (B.Com) and Education (PG degree).
Final year/semester students are also eligible to apply, provided they do not have any backlogs and secure the required minimum percentage by the time of course commencement.
Selection Process: The Three-Stage Journey
The selection process is rigorous, comprising three stages:
- Online Written Examination (AFCAT): The AFCAT written exam is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) assessing General Awareness, Verbal Ability in English, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning and Military Aptitude. Candidates for the Technical branch must also appear for the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT).
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview: Successful candidates from the written exam are called for the AFSB interview, a comprehensive five-day process that includes psychological tests, group discussions, and personal interviews.
- Medical Examination: Candidates recommended by the AFSB undergo a thorough medical examination.
The final merit list is prepared based on the performance in both the AFCAT written exam and the AFSB interview. This is a life-changing opportunity for young graduates aiming to serve the nation. For regular updates, follow Only Education News.