IAF AFCAT 1 2026 Registration Opens: Gateway to Becoming an Air Force Officer
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially commenced the registration process for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT 1) 2026, inviting applications from eligible male and female Indian citizens to join as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers. The online application link is active from today, November 17, 2025, and aspirants must submit their forms on the official portal, afcat.edcil.co.in, before the deadline of December 14, 2025 (23:30 Hr).
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially commenced the registration process for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT 1) 2026, inviting applications from eligible male and female Indian citizens to join as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers. The online application link is active from today, November 17, 2025, and aspirants must submit their forms on the official portal, afcat.edcil.co.in, before the deadline of December 14, 2025 (23:30 Hr).
This cycle of recruitment is for courses commencing in January 2027 and aims to fill a total of 340 vacancies across the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) Branches.
Key Examination and Application Schedule
The AFCAT is a crucial stepping stone, and candidates are advised to adhere strictly to the published timeline:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| AFCAT 1 2026 Online Application Start | November 17, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | December 14, 2025 |
| Admit Card Download | January 22, 2026 onwards |
| AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Date | January 31, 2026 |
| Course Commencement | January 2027 |
Aspirants for the AFCAT entry must pay a non-refundable examination fee of ₹550 + GST during the online application process. Candidates applying through the NCC Special Entry are exempt from the fee.
Eligibility Criteria at a Glance
The eligibility requirements for AFCAT 1 2026 vary by branch, demanding specific academic qualifications and age limits:
| Branch | Age Limit (as of Jan 1, 2027) | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 20 to 24 years | Graduation (min 3 years) with 60% marks and 50% in Maths & Physics at 10+2 level. |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | 20 to 26 years | 4-year Engineering/Technology degree with a minimum of 60% marks. |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | 20 to 26 years | Graduation in any discipline with a minimum of 60% marks. |
The recruitment process involves a written examination, followed by the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview and a medical examination. The written test will comprise 100 questions worth 300 marks, covering General Awareness, Verbal Ability in English, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning and Military Aptitude. It is important to remember that there is negative marking, with one mark deducted for every incorrect response.
How to Apply and Final Advice
To ensure a successful application for the 340 vacancies, candidates should follow the steps outlined by the IAF:
- Visit the official portal, afcat.edcil.co.in.
- Click on the "Candidate Login" and complete the New User Registration.
- Log in with the generated credentials and accurately fill out the detailed application form, including academic and personal particulars.
- Upload the scanned photograph, signature, and thumb impression in the specified format.
- Pay the required application fee (if applicable) and submit the form.
- Download and save the final confirmation page for future reference.
Aspirants are strongly encouraged to apply well before the December 14 deadline to prevent any last-minute technical difficulties. This is a life-changing opportunity to join the defence services as a commissioned officer. For regular updates on defence entrance exams and recruitment, follow Only Education News.