Indian Air Force AFCAT 2026 Notification Released for Flying and Ground Duty Posts

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the notification for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 01/2026, inviting applications from eligible men and women for the grant of Short Service Commission (SSC) in the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches, as well as the NCC Special Entry for the Flying Branch. Courses are scheduled to commence in January 2027 at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Hyderabad, with training marking the beginning of a career as Group A Gazetted Officers. Online registrations will open on November 10, 2025, and close on December 9, 2025, via the official portal afcat.cdac.in, where candidates can access the detailed notification expected around November 9, 2025.

Eligibility criteria vary by branch: For the Flying Branch, candidates must be aged 20-24 years as of January 1, 2027, with at least 50% marks each in maths and physics at the 10+2 level and a graduation degree. Ground Duty (Technical) requires Aeronautical Engineering qualifications with a minimum of 60% marks, while Non-Technical branches have broader graduate/postgraduate options up to age 26. Physical standards include height requirements, and tattoos are permitted only on the inner face of forearms, with no visibility in uniform elsewhere. During training, flying cadets receive a stipend of Rs 56,100 per month, escalating to full pay scales upon commissioning, reaching up to Rs 177,500 plus allowances like Dearness Allowance and flying pay for pilots.

The selection process involves a computer-based AFCAT exam (and Engineering Knowledge Test for technical branches), followed by Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interviews, psychological tests, group tasks, and medical examinations. The exam, conducted twice annually, tests general awareness, verbal ability, numerical ability, and reasoning, with negative marking for wrong answers. Successful candidates undergo rigorous training, emphasising leadership and operational readiness in a dynamic defence environment.

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This recruitment drive offers a prestigious pathway into the IAF, with opportunities for both Permanent and Short Service Commissions, including women candidates across branches. Aspirants are advised to review the official notification for exact vacancies (to be detailed soon), application fees (Rs 550 for AFCAT entries, waived for NCC), and preparation tips. As defence careers gain traction among youth, AFCAT 01/2026 represents a timely chance to serve the nation, with applications encouraged from diverse educational backgrounds meeting the stringent criteria.

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