AFCAT 2026 Notification (OUT): Application window opens on November 10, check eligibility, important dates here

AFCAT 1 2026

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has released the short notification for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 1 2026. The application process for one of India's most prestigious entry routes into the armed forces is scheduled to commence on November 10, 2025.

Candidates are advised to mark their calendars, as the final date to submit the online application form is December 9, 2025. The official portal for all applications and updates is afcat.cdac.in.

This recruitment drive aims to select talented candidates for officer-level positions in both the Flying Branch and the Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) Branches. The IAF has stated that a more detailed, extended notification will be published on the website shortly.

AFCAT 1 2026: Key Eligibility Criteria

Aspiring candidates must carefully review the following eligibility norms before applying:

1. Educational Qualifications:

For Flying Branch: Candidates must have a minimum of 50% marks in both Mathematics and Physics in their Class 12th from a recognized board. Additionally, they must hold a Bachelor's degree (BE/B.Tech) with at least 60% marks.

For Ground Duty (Technical) Branch: Applicants must have passed Class 12th with Physics and Mathematics. A graduate degree in Engineering or Technology (BE/B.Tech) with a minimum of 60% marks is mandatory.

2. Age Limit (as of date of notification):

Flying Branch: Candidate age must be between 20 to 24 years.

Ground Duty (Technical/Non-Technical) Branch: Candidate age must be between 20 to 26 years.

3. Application Fee:

In a welcome move, candidates applying through the NCC Special Entry are exempt from paying any application fee. The fee structure for other candidates will be detailed in the extended notification.

AFCAT 1 2026: Exam Pattern and Selection Process

The selection process is multi-staged and rigorous, designed to pick the best candidates for the Indian Air Force.

Stage 1: AFCAT Written Exam: The computer-based test will be of 2 hours duration, comprising 100 questions totalling 300 marks.

Stage 2: AFSB Interview: Candidates who clear the written exam will be shortlisted for the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview, which spans several days and includes psychological tests, a Group Discussion, and personal interviews.

Stage 3: Medical Examination: Finally, recommended candidates must undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure they meet the stringent physical and medical standards of the IAF.

How to apply for AFCAT 1 2026?

Once the application process begins on November 10, 2025, follow these steps to complete your registration:

Step 1: Visit the official website afcat.cdac.in.
Step 2: On the homepage, click on the registration link for 'IAF AFCAT 01/2026'.
Step 3: Fill out the online application form with accurate personal, educational, and contact details.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as photographs and signatures, in the prescribed format and size.
Step 5: Proceed to pay the application fee (if applicable) through the available online modes.
Step 6: Submit the form and download/print a copy of the final submission confirmation for your future reference.

Eligible and interested candidates are encouraged to begin their preparations and gear up for the application window starting this November.