Is AFCAT selection process same for men and women candidates?

AFCAT selection process is the same for men and women candidates. The criteria in terms of height and weight is different from the male. Candidates applying for the AFCAT exam are required to appear for the online test and AFSB interview.

What is AFCAT selection process?

AFCAT selection process comprises online test and AFSB interview. The AFCAT exam is conducted online. The test comprises questions from General Awareness, Verbal Ability in English . Numerical Ability, Military Reasoning, and Aptitude test. The total marks allotted to the test are 300. The duration of the test is two hours. The questions asked in the exam are objective-type. The standard of questions asked in the exam is of graduation level. The language of the question paper is English . Candidates should score between 140 to 190 marks out of 300 in AFCAT exam. The AFSB interview is conducted in two stages. Stage 1 of AFSB interview comprises Intelligence rating Test and Picture perception and Discussion Test. Stage 2 comprises Psychological Tests, Group Tests, Interview and Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) test (For Flying Branch) candidates.

What are the documents required for AFCAT AFSB?

While appearing for AFSB, candidates need to carry the following documents: AFCAT Admit Card Original Matriculation/ Secondary School Certificate and Mark sheets issued by CBSE/ ICSE/ State Board No Other Certificate will be accepted for verification of Date of Birth Original Marks Sheet & Certificate of 10+2 (issued by the relevant Board) Original/ Provisional Graduation Degree/ Post Graduation Degree Certificates and Marksheet of each year/ semester issued by University. Provisional Certificate issued by college principal is not acceptable. However, Provisional Degree Certificate issued by the University is acceptable In case of final year/ semester students, a Certificate from the College Principal with proper stamp is required Two attested photocopies of certificates Original NCC Certificate (if applicable) NOC from employers for candidates working in Central/ State government. Or Public Sector Undertakings Original valid Commercial Pilots' License, issued by DGCA, if applicable Inbound Railway Ticket/ Bus Tickets. (For refund of Travelling Allowance) 20 copies of passport-size photographs.

Can I apply offline for AFCAT exam?

Candidates need to apply online for AFCAT exam only. There is no facility to apply offline. The link to fill the application form is activated on the official website. To apply for AFCAT exam, candidates are first required to register for the exam. The window to edit the application form is made available after the closure of application process.

What are the steps to fill AFCAT application form?

AFCAT application form is released online. The application fee which is INR 550 with GST charges for all categories and can be paid online. The steps to fill AFCAT application form are given below: Visit the official website of IAF Register for the exam by entering the required details Fill the application form of AFCAT Pay the application fee Submit the application form Candidates are not required to send the hard copy of the application form to the examination authority. The window to make corrections in the application form is made available after the application process closes. Candidates can correct their names, father's name, mother's name, uploaded photograph, signature and left thumb impression, etc.

How to check the AFCAT payment status?

Once the payment process is successful, the system displays the AFCAT registration number. This means that the payment is successful. Candidates must verify the correction of information entered in the application form before proceeding with the 'Make Payment' option. Applicants will not be able to edit the previous details entered after the selection of 'Course Preferences' step and after the 'Make Payment' step. No cash or cheque or demand draft (DD) is accepted towards payment of examination fee. The examination fee can be paid using credit/ debit cards/ net banking through the payment gateway. Applicants are advised to follow the instructions/ steps given on the payment gateway, and also print/keep the transaction details for their records. After confirmation from bank that the payment is received, the 'Payment Status' display 'Registration Number' which the candidate may note down for future correspondence. Simultaneously, candidates also receive a confirmatory sms/ e-mail.

What details can I edit in AFCAT application form?

The window to correct the details in AFCAT application form is made available few days after the closure of the application process. Candidates can use the correction window to edit details such as Candidate's name, Father's name, Passport Size Photo, Signature, Thumb Impression. No other fields are editable. No extra fee is charged to make the changes in the application form. The facility for editing the application form can be done by candidates who register successfully and pay the application fee.

What is the difference between NDA and AFCAT?

The full form of AFCAT is Air Force Common Admission Test whereas the full form of NDA is National Defence Academy. Both exams are the sought-after defence entrance exams in the country. NDA exam is conducted by Union Public Service Commission to select candidates for admission to the Army, Navy and Air wings of NDA and Indian Naval Academy Courses. AFCAT exam is conducted to select candidates as Class 1 gazetted Officers in the flying branch and ground duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches.

What are the important changes announced in AFCAT exam?

Some of the important changes observed in AFCAT notification are listed below: No Permanent Commission There was no vacancy for Permanent Commission. Earlier, Permanent Commission vacancies were announced for male candidates. The engagement period for Flying Branch (Men and Women) SSC Officers is fourteen years from the date of Commissioning. The initial tenure for Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) SSC Officers would be for a period of ten years. An extension of four years may be granted subject to service requirements, availability of vacancies, willingness, suitability and merit. Grant of Permanent Commission (PC) (at a later date) would be considered subject to service requirements, availability of vacancies, willingness, suitability, merit and as per prevailing policies on the subject. SSC officers are not entitled for the grant of pension. New Addition of Branch IAF included one new branch in AFCAT exam. The weapon system branch was included and the total number of vacancies for this branch was two for women and 15 for men. Meterology Branch Included in the Online Test of AFCAT Candidates who applied for the Meteorology branch were required to appear for AFCAT online exam. Earlier, it was as part of the special entry. No EKT Exam Conducted EKT exam is not included in AFCAT exam. Earlier, EKT was the part of AFCAT exam. This is conducted for the Technical branch.

What is the difference between AFCAT and EKT?

AFCAT exam or Air Force Common Admission Test is conducted by Indian Air Force to select candidates as Class 1 gazetted officers in the Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. EKT or Engineering Knowledge Test is conducted for the candidates who apply for the technical branches. AFCAT exam carries a total of 100 questions from General Awareness, Verbal Ability in English Numerical Ability, Military Reasoning, and Aptitude test. The total marks allotted to the AFCAT exam are 300. The duration of the test is two hours. EKT carries 50 questions that are Engineering subject-specific. Questions are asked from Mechanical, Computer Science, and Electrical & Electronics. The total marks allotted to the test are 150 and is held for 45 minutes.

Is there any negative marking in AFCAT exam?

Yes, there is a negative marking in AFCAT exam. For each wrong answer, one mark is deducted.

Is 175 considered a good score for AFCAT exam?

The minimum good score for AFCAT exam 165-175. Candidates need to secure the required score inorder to qualify the exam. Candidates qualifying the online exam are called for AFSB Interview. Candidates need to practice well inorder to qualify the exam.

What is AFCAT merit list?

AFCAT merit list is prepared based on the performance in the online test and AFSB Interview. Separate qualifying marks are decided for the online test and AFSB interview. Candidates are placed in the order of merit on the basis of their total marks secured in both the stages of exams. Allotment of candidates in Permanent Commission/Short Service Commission in Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) and Flying Branches are done based on the number of vacancies, performance in the selection process, and choices given by candidates.

Why AFCAT marks are calculated using the normalisation process?

AFCAT result is prepared using the normalisation process. This is done to adjust the difficulty level of the question papers. The exam is conducted in multiple shifts. Total marks allotted to the exam are 300.

What is AFCAT marking scheme?

AFCAT marking scheme is prescribed by the examination authority. The marking scheme shows how many marks are deducted for wrong answers. This also shows how many marks are given for correct answers.

What is AFCAT Exam Pattern?

AFCAT exam pattern highlights the overall structure of the exam such as number of sections, weightage of topics, time duration, total marks, marking scheme, etc. AFCAT exam is divided into online test and AFSB interview. Besides AFCAT candidates who applies for the technical branch are required to appear for the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT). AFCAT test comprises different sections such as General Awareness, Verbal Ability in English . Numerical Ability, Military Reasoning, and Aptitude test. EKT carries questions from Mechanical, Computer Science, and Electrical & Electronics. AFCAT carries a total of 100 questions whereas, EKT carries 50 questions. The total marks allotted to AFCAT are 300 whereas, EKT carries 150 marks. The duration of AFCAT exam is two hours whereas EKT is held for 45 minutes. Both AFCAT and EKT is held in online mode and the language of the question paper is English.

What is the pattern of AFCAT AFSB?

AFSB or Air Force Selection Board is held for candidates qualifying the online test of AFCAT. The AFSB interview is conducted in three stages at different centres-Dehradun, Varanasi, Gandhinagar and Mysuru. At AFSB, candidates need to undergo the following tests: Stage-I: This stage comprises Officer Intelligence Rating Test along with Picture Perception and discussion test on the first day. This is the screening stage and qualifying the test are called for subsequent rounds of AFSB. In the first stage, the documents of candidates are verified to ascertain their eligibility for the branch they have applied for. Stage 2: This stage is conducted for five days. The tests that are conducted in this stage are Psychological Tests, Group Tests, Interview and Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS). The CPSS is conducted for Flying Branch and it is a once in a lifetime test.

What is the difference between AFCAT and EKT?

AFCAT exam or Air Force Common Admission Test is conducted by Indian Air Force to select candidates as Class 1 gazetted officers in the Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. EKT or Engineering Knowledge Test is conducted for the candidates who apply for the technical branches. AFCAT exam carries a total of 100 questions from General Awareness, Verbal Ability in English Numerical Ability, Military Reasoning, and Aptitude test. The total marks allotted to the AFCAT exam are 300. The duration of the test is two hours. EKT carries 50 questions that are Engineering subject-specific. Questions are asked from Mechanical, Computer Science, and Electrical & Electronics. The total marks allotted to the test are 150 and is held for 45 minutes.

How many vacancies have been announced for AFCAT 1 2025 exam?

AFCAT 1 vacancy break-up is given below: Entry Type Post Code Male Female AFCAT Flying 21 9 AFCAT Ground Duty Technical AE (L) 95 27 AE (M) 53 14 AFCAT Ground Duty Non Technical Admin 42 11 LGS 13 3 Accounts 11 2 Ground Duty Non Technical Education 07 02 Ground Duty Non Technical Weapon Systems WS Branch 14 03 Meteorology Entry Meteorology 07 02 NCC Special Entry Flying 10% seats out of CDSE vacancies for PC and 10% seats out of AFCAT vacancies for SSC.

What are the important points related to AFCAT vacancies?

AFCAT vacancies announced by IAF are tentative and that can be changed. Candidates are selected based on requirements and total number of vacancies. Recruitment is carried out based on vacancies.

How many AFCAT 2 vacancies 2025 have been announced?

A total of 284 Vacancies were announced for AFCAT 2 exam. The vacancy break-up is given below. Entry Branch Course Number Vacancies (Men) (SSC) Vacancies (Women) AFCAT Entry Flying 220/26F/SSC/M & W 01 02 Ground-Duty (Technical) 219/26T/SSC/ 109AEC/ M & W AE (L): 85 AE (M): 38 AE (L): 23 AE (M): 10 Ground-Duty (Non-Technical) 219/26G/SSC/M & W Weapon System (WS) Branch: 19 Admin: 46 Accts: 09 Lgs: 11 Edn: 07 Met: 06 Weapon System (WS) Branch: 05 Admin: 12 Accts: 02 Lgs: 04 Edn: 02 Met: 02 NCC Special Entry Flying 220/26F/PC/M and 220/26F/SSC/M&W 10% seats out of CDSE vacancies for PC and 10% seats out of AFCAT vacancies for SSC.

How many AFCAT 1 vacancies were announced in 2024?

AFCAT 1 2024 vacancy break-up is given below. Entry Type Post Code Male Female Total AFCAT Flying 28 10 38 AFCAT Ground Duty Technical AE (L) 104 11 125 AE (M) 45 05 50 AFCAT Ground Duty Non Technical Admin 44 06 50 LGS 11 02 13 Accounts 11 02 13 Ground Duty Non Technical Education 08 02 10 Ground Duty Non Technical Weapon Systems WS Branch 15 02 17 Meteorology Entry Meteorology 09 02 11 NCC Special Entry Flying 10% seats out of CDSE vacancies for PC and 10% seats out of AFCAT vacancies for SSC.

What is the procedure of training of newly appointed Officers through AFCAT exam?

Training of newly appointed officers is conducted at Air Force Academy Dundigal (Hyderabad). The duration of training for Flying and Ground Duty (Technical) Branches is 74 weeks and that of Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branches is 52 weeks at Air Force Training Establishments. Candidates are advised to keep themselves in good physical condition to adapt to physical training at AFA that encompasses running, swimming, rope climbing and other forms of physical training in which they are required to undergo mandatory tests during the training. Candidates should keep themselves fit by following the below-mentioned routine: Running upto 4 kms in 5 minutes Skipping Push-ups & Sit-ups minimum 20 each Chin ups: 8 Rope Climbing: 3 to 4 meters Swimming (25 m).

What are the admission in AFA?

Candidates after admission in Air Force Academy will not be considered for any other commission. They are not permitted to appear for any interview or exam after they have finally selected for training at AFA. No request for withdrawal of candidature received from a candidate after they have submitted their applications is entertained under any circumstance. PAN Card, Aadhaar card and account in SBI/ Nationalized Bank is mandatory at the time of joining Air Force Academy (AFA). Use/possession of narcotics is banned. Candidate may be tested for presence of drugs in the body during Medicals and subsequently during training/ service career as an officer. If candidate is found to be using/ in possession of narcotics during any time of training/service career, candidate would be debarred from training /service as per extant policy.

What is the rank wise salary of AFCAT Officers?

The rank-wise salary of AFCAT Officers is given below: Rank Level Pay Scale (In INR) Flying Officer Level 10 56,100 – 1,77,500 Flight Lieutenant Level 10 B 6,13,00-1,93,900 Squadron Leader Level 11 6,94,00 – 2,07,200 Wing Commander Level 12A 1,21,200 – 2,12400 Group Captain Level 13 1,30,600-2, 15,900 Air Commodore Level 13A 1,39,600-2,17,600 Air Vice Marshal Level 14 1,44,200-2,18,200 Air Marshal HAG Scale Level 15 1, 82, 200-2,24,100 HAG+Scale Level 16 2,05,400 – 2,24,400 VACS/Airforce Cdr/ Air Marshal (NFSG) Level 17 2,25,000/- (fixed) CAS Level 18 2,50,000/- (fixed)

What is the annual package offered to AFCAT Officers?

AFCAT salary is different for different branches. The annual AFCAT salary package is given below. Branch Annual package (In INR) Flying Branch 8-10 LPA Ground Duty (Tech) 7-9 LPA Ground Duty (Non-Tech) 7-9 LPA

Which shift was the toughest in AFCAT 2024?

As per the feedback of the aspirants who attempted AFCAT 1 2024 exam on February 17, 2024, the difficulty level of Shift 1 and 2 was moderate. The shift-wise exam analysis is given below. Subject Difficulty Level (Shift 1) Difficulty Level (Shift 2) General Awareness Moderate Moderate English Moderate Easy Numerical Ability Moderate Moderate Reasoning Moderate Moderate Overall Moderate Moderate

When AFCAT 1 2026 exam analysis was released?

AFCAT 1 2026 exam analysis was released on January 31. This is provided after the completion of the exam. They can refer to the same to check the level of the exam. They can also know the topics from where questions were asked in the exam.

What are the important topics for the English Language section in the AFCAT exam?

The important topics for the AFCAT English Language section consists of the following: Comprehension Error Sentence Completion Synonyms & Antonyms Vocabulary Idioms and Phrases

How to prepare for AFCAT in 2 months?

Quant is the most scoring section and very basic questions are asked. With just practice, candidates will be able to score good marks. Questions are asked from Profit and loss, Time and Work, Time Speed and Distance, Percentage, Simplification, Average, Mixtures, SI and CI, etc. For English, candidates must practice RCs, Vocab and Idioms. Candidates must solve five question papers as this will help them to know their strengths and weaknesses in the given subjects or topics. Candidates need to work on their weaknesses. Candidates must revise everything in the last 30 to 31 days leading to the exam. Also focus on taking the mock tests.

How to prepare for AFCAT in 6 months?

Six months are more than enough to prepare for AFCAT exam. Candidates must start from clearing the basic concepts of every topics. Maths can be tough, therefore, candidates must understand the basic concepts. They should note down the important theorems and formulas. In English, candidates need to focus on improving their vocabularly. Candidates must prepare current affairs of six months from the date of exam. They should also prepare basic Science, Geography, Defence Terms, etc. Logical Reasoning questions will be of non-verbal type. So, candidates must solve previous years' question papers.

How to prepare for AFCAT in 3 months?

With just three months left for the exam, take mock test on the first day of preparation. This will give candidates an idea how much effort they need to put in to propel towards the ideal score. Set a week-wise target to complete the syllabus. Buy a good book and learn from it. The mock-taking exercise should be followed up with an in-depth mock analysis. Candidates must also solve previous years' question papers.

How to prepare AFCAT Reasoning section?

Candidates need to understand the format ofAFCAT reasoning section. Practising will help candidates to know the type of questions that are asked in the exam. They must attempt mock tests. Also, candidates must solve previous years' question papers.

What is the AFCAT cut off?

AFCAT cut off is the minimum qualifying marks that candidates need to secure inorder to qualify the exam. AFCAT 1 cut off 2023 was 155 out of 300. In 2022, AFCAT 1 cut off was 157 whereas it was 18 for EKT. In the same year, AFCAT 2 cut off was 157. In 2021, AFCAT 1 cut off was 165 whereas EKT cut off was 30. In 2021, AFCAT 2 cut off was 157 whereas EKT cut off was 18. In 2019, AFCAT 1 cut off was 133 whereas it was 50 for EKT. In 2020, AFCAT 2 cut off was 155 whereas EKT cut off was 40. AFCAT cut off is announced online on the official website. AFCAT cut off is common for all the categories. Candidates securing equal to or more than the cut off marks are called for the next round of selection process.

How to check AFCAT cut off?

AFCAT cut off is announced online along with the result. The cut off is released on the official website of IAF. Candidates securing equal to or more than the cut off marks are called for AFSB interview. The final selection of candidates is done based on the marks obtained in the online test and AFSB interview. The steps to check AFCAT cut off are given below: Visit the official website of IAF Click on the AFCAT scorecard link on the home page Candidates need to enter the required details to login After logging, candidates can check the cut off marks Based on the cut off marks, candidates are selected for the next round of selection process.

Will I be eligible for the AFSB interview if I did not clear the EKT cutoff in the exam but cleared the AFCAT cutoff?

Yes, you will be eligible for the AFSB interview only if you have selected other Non-Technical branches such as administration, flying, etc. However, you will not be considered for the Technical Branch. If you have applied for Technical branch then you need to clear both the cutoffs for EKT and AFCAT. The selection is done based on the performance in AFCAT and EKT exams. EKT is conducted for the candidates who apply for the Technical branch. EKT cut off is calculated out of 150 marks. AFCAT cut off is calculated out off 300 marks. It is mandatory to secure the cut off marks in the exam inorder to get shortlisted. There are sectional as well as overall cut off marks.

AFCAT 2026: AFCAT 1 Answer Key OUT), Exam Analysis, Result, Cut off, Selection Process & FAQs

540 Students Q&A

Updated on Feb 1, 2026 20:14 IST

By Shikha Goyal, Assistant Manager

AFCAT 2026: The Indian Air Force has released AFCAT 1 2026 answer key on February 1. Challenges can be raised within definite time-frame. The exam was conducted on January 31. AFCAT exam analysis 2026 is provided on this page. The exam analysis helps candidates to know the overall and section-wise difficulty levels. AFCAT 1 2026 exam is expected to be announced in February. Candidates qualifying the AFCAT 1 2026 are called for AFSB Interview. A total of 340 vacancies are to be filled through this recruitment.

The window to edit the application form was available from December 23 to 24. AFCAT 1 application form filling process closed on December 19. The application form was released on November 17.

AFCAT exam dates have been announced along with the notification. Selection process comprises online test and AFSB Interview. Read below for more details on AFCAT 2026 exam.

Table of contents

AFCAT Exam Analysis 2026
AFCAT 2026 Dates
What is AFCAT Exam?
AFCAT Admit Card 2026
AFCAT Application Form 2026
AFCAT Syllabus & Exam Pattern 2026
AFCAT Vacancies 2026
AFCAT Preparation
AFCAT Result 2026
AFCAT Cut off 2026
AFCAT Salary
AFCAT Selection Process 2026
AFCAT 2026 FAQs

AFCAT Exam Analysis 2026

The AFCAT 1 exam was moderate in terms of difficulty level. The exam analysis highlights the overall and section-wise difficulty of the exam. The overall difficulty is given below.

Subject	Difficulty Level
General Awareness	Moderate
Verbal Ability in English	Moderate
Numerical Ability	Moderate
Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test	Moderate

Also Read: AFCAT 1 Exam Analysis 2026

AFCAT 2026 Dates

Take a look at the table below for the complete schedule of AFCAT 2026 exam

Dates	Past Exam Dates
31 Jan ' 26	AFCAT 1 2026 exam
22 Jan ' 26	AFCAT 1 Admit Card 2026
23 Dec ' 25 - 24 Dec ' 25	AFCAT 1 Online Correction Window 2026
View More Past Events (46)

What is AFCAT Exam?

AFCAT is conducted to select candidates for Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Tehnical and Non-Technical). The selection process comprises online test and AFSB interview. Both male and female candidates can participate in the exam. Appointment is done for both Permanent and Short Service Commission. Candidates can check below few points related to the exam.

Permanent commission is given to those who joins Technical Branch AE(L) & AE(M)
Under Short Service Commission, Officers in Flying Branch are employed for 14 years
The initial tenure for Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) SSC Officers is 10 years. An extension of four years may be given subject to service requirements and merit
Permanent Commission is considered subject to requirements, availability of vacancies, etc.
SSC officers are not given pension

Also Read: Indian Air Force Salary

AFCAT Exam Highlights

The highlights of the AFCAT recruitment exam are given below. Candidates applying for the exam must ensure that they fulfill all the eligibility conditions. Selection of candidates is provisional subject to their fulfilling the eligibility.

Exam Particulars	Exam Details
Exam Name	Air Force Common Admission Test or AFCAT
Conducting Body	Indian Air Force
Exam Level	National level
Exam Frequency	Twice a year (February and August/September)
Exam Stages	Online test and AFSB interview
Mode of Exam	Online
Purpose of the Exam	To select Group A Gazetted Officers in Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches
Exam Fees	INR 250
Exam Duration	AFCAT: Two hours EKT: 45 minutes
No. of Papers and Total Marks	AFCAT: Four (100 marks) EKT: Three (50 marks)
Total Questions	AFCAT: 300 EKT: 150
Marking Scheme	For correct answers, candidates score three marks One mark is deducted for every incorrect answer No marks are allotted to unattempted questions
Language/Medium of Exam	English
No. of Test Cities	Approx. 102 cities
Official Website	afcat.cdac.in
Contact Details	020-25503105 or 020-25503106

AFCAT Admit Card 2026

AFCAT 1 admit card was released on January 22. To download AFCAT hall ticket, registered candidates need to login with email ID, password, and captcha code. The hard copy of the admit card is not sent to candidates by post. Candidates need to carry the printed copy of their admit card along with one photo-identity proof to the exam centre.

AFCAT Exam Centres

AFCAT exam centres details are mentioned in the admit card. The examination authority releases the test cities along with the notification. Candidates are required to give the preferences of their test cities while filling the online form. Before the release of admit card, AFCAT city intimation slip is released. Candidates can check the city slip by logging with the required credentials.

AFCAT Exam Day Guidelines

Few exam day guidelines for AFCAT are given below. Candidates must follow these while appearing for the exam.

The reporting time for morning shift is 07:30 am and 12:30 pm for the second Shift
Candidates are required to put only the thumb impression on the admit card in advance, before proceeding to the exam centre
Take back-to-back printout of AFCAT admit card.
Candidates must bring one photo-identity proof to the exam centre
Bring two passport-size colour photographs
Eletronic items are not allowed inside the exam hall
Follow dress code

Also Read:

AFCAT Exam Day Guidelines

AFCAT Shift Timings

AFCAT Application Form 2026

AFCAT 1 online form correction window is available now. The application form filling process closed on December 19. AFCAT application form was released on November 17. AFCAT 2 application form will be made available in June. The application fee can be paid online and is INR 550 across all categories. The process to submit the application form is given below.

Candidates need to got to afcat.edcil.co.in
Go the candidate login at the top right hand corner of the home page
Click the 'AFCAT Apply Online' link
Fill Part 1 of application form
Fill Part 2 registration form
Pay the application fee
Submit the form

AFCAT Notification

The detailed notification for AFCAT 1 2026 is available now. AFCAT notification is released to select eligible candidates for the grant of Short Service Commission (SSC) in Flying Branch and Permanent Commission (PC) and Short Service Commission (SSC) in Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. The AFCAT notification PDF comprises all details related to the exam.

AFCAT Eligibility

The eli8gibility is given below.

AFCAT Eligibility Criteria: Nationality

Candidates must be a citizen of India as per Indian citizenship act, 1955

AFCAT Age limit

The age requirement as per AFCAT eligibility prescribed for the exam are different for different branches. The table below contains the age limit for different branches.

Branches	Age (In Years)
Flying Branch	20 and 24
Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) Branch	20 and 26

AFCAT Marital Status

Unmarried male and female candidates can apply

AFCAT Eligibility: Educational Qualification

Candidates must have passed Graduation with 60 per cent. They should have passed Class 12 with Maths and Physics if applying for Flying or Technical branches.

AFCAT Physical and Medical Standards

Candidates should be medically and physically fit to be eligible to carry out their duties and responsibilities properly.

AFCAT Syllabus & Exam Pattern 2026

AFCAT syllabus is prescibed by the IAF. It is framed based on the nature of work. The standard of the syllabus is of graduation level. Candidates appearing for the exam must be thorough with the syllabus. The section-wise AFCAT syllabus is given below.

Subjects	Topics
English	Comprehension, Error Detection, Antonyms and Testing of Vocabulary, Idioms and Phrases, Synonyms
General Knowledge	History, Civics, Geography, Politics, Art, Culture, Sports, Defence, Basic Science, Environment, Current Affairs
Reasoning and Military Aptitude	Spatial Ability, Verbal Ability, Simple Interest Time and Distance, Ratio and Proportion, etc.
Numerical Ability	Time and Work, Decimal Fraction, Profit and Loss, Percentage, etc.

AFCAT Exam Pattern 2026

AFCAT exam pattern highlights the overall exam structure. The test carries four sections. Total marks allotted to the exam are 300. The duration of the test is 2 hours. Total 100 questions are asked in the exam. There are also negative markings in the exam. The structure of AFCAT exam pattern is given below.

Subject	Exam Duration	No of Questions	Maximum Marks
General Awareness	02 hours	100	300
Verbal Ability in English
Numerical Ability
Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test

AFCAT Vacancies 2026

A total of 340 vacancies were announced for AFCAT 1 2026. Out of the total vacancies, 10 per cent of seats out of CDSE vacancies are reserved for Permanent Commission (PC). 10 per cent of seats out of Short Service Commission (SSC) are reserved for the NCC Special Entry Flying branch. Check below AFCAT 2026 vacancies.

Entry	Branch	Course Name	Men (PC)	Women (PC)	Men (SSC)	Women (SSC)
AFCAT Entry	Flying	221/27F/SSC/M&W			34	04
	Ground Duty (Technical)	220/27T/PC/ 110AEC/M&W 220/27T/SSC/ 110AEC/M&W	AE(L)- 03 AE(M)- 09	AE(L)- 03 AE(M)- 03	AE(L)- 100 AE(M)- 38	AE(L)- 23 AE(M)- 09
	Ground Duty (Non-Technical)	220/27G/SSC/M&W	--	--	Weapon Systems (WS) Branch:21 Admin:48 Lgs:09 Accts :08 Edn :02 Met :01	Weapon Systems (WS) Branch:05 Admin :12 Lgs :02 Accts :02 Edn :02 Met :02
NCC Special Entry	Flying	221/27F/PC/M and 221/27F/SSC/M&W	--	--	10% seats out of CDSE vacancies for PC and10% seats out of AFCAT vacancies for SSC

AFCAT Preparation

The first and foremost AFCAT preparation is to check the syllabus and exam pattern. This gives candidates an idea about the subjects and overall structure of the exam. Candidates must clear the basic concepts of the subjects given in the syllabus. They should also refer to good books that are easy to understand. Practice mocks to improve speed. Revise all the chapters properly and make notes.

Also Read: AFCAT Books

AFCAT Result 2026

AFCAT result is announced online. Candidates need to log into their account by entering their email ID, password, and captcha code. AFCAT result displays the qualifying status, section-wise marks, overall marks, and cutoff marks. Based on the AFCAT result, candidates are called for AFSB Interview. The marks of candidates are normalised to release the result. The final merit list of AFCAT is prepared based on the marks scored in the online test and AFSB interview.

AFCAT Cut off 2026

The cut off is announced along with the result. AFCAT cut off is calculated after normalisation. Candidates who secure equal to or more than the cutoff marks are selected for AFSB Interview. AFCAT cut off is common across all categories. It is the minimum qualifying marks that candidates need to secure for selection. Previous years AFCAT cut off are given below.

AFCAT	AFCAT Cut Off
AFCAT 1 cut off 2025	121
AFCAT 1 2024	137
AFCAT 1 2023	155

AFCAT Salary

Candidates selected through AFCAT earn a monthly stipend of INR 56,100 during the training period. After completing the training period successfully, an IAF Officer will get a AFCAT salary between INR 56,100 and INR 1,10,700 as per the seventh pay commission.

Download CURRENT AFFAIRS Guide - Click Here

Read More:

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Indian Coast Guard Exam

AFCAT Selection Process 2026

AFCAT selection process comprises online exam and AFSB Interview. The advertisement for the exam is conducted twice a year-June and December. AFCAT exam is conducted in February and August. The test is conducted all across India by the Indian Air Force. The recruitment process begins with the release of notification.

Also Read: AFCAT Selection Process

AFCAT 2026 FAQs

Check FAQs below.

Q: Which are the important topics for AFCAT Reasoning Ability and Military Aptitude?

Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test is one of the important sections of AFCAT exam. This section assess a candidate's ability to think logically. This section carries maximum questions in the exam. Candidates need to prepare well for the exam.

Q: I am taking the AFCAT for the first time. How should I prepare for it to crack it in my first attempt?

The preparation tips for the AFCAT exam are mentioned below:

Know the exam syllabus and pattern.
Solve the previous year question paper to know the exam difficulty level. Focus on the weak topics. Read more about these topics, solve related problems, and take online quizzes.
AFCAT exam GA section will assess the knowledge of current affairs.

Q: What are the important topics for Numerical Ability in AFCAT exam?

Topics for the AFCAT Numerical Ability section are Decimal Fraction, Time and Work, Average, Profit & Loss, Percentage, Ratio & Proportion and Simple Interest, Time and Distance. Candidates can prepare this section only through practice. They should also learn the shortcut tricks of solving questions.

Q: I have registered online on the official website for AFCAT. However, I have not received any password. What to do?

While entering email address ensure it is correct and in use. Password is sent to email address through which you have registered. If you do not receive password you may also use Forgot Password Option to receive a new password.

Q: Is the candidate eligible for TA or other allowance for appearing in the AFCAT?

Candidates are required to travel to the AFCAT exam centre of their own. The exam centre is allotted to candidates based on their preferences. The details related to the exam centre are mentioned in the admit card. Take the printout of the admit card along with one photo-identity proof.

Q: What is the full form of AFCAT?

AFCAT full form is Air Force Common Admission Test. The exam is conducted twice a year to pick up Class-1 Officers in Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. Career in Air Force is loaded with opportunities. Candidates starting their career as Flying Officer can reach to the position of Air Marshal/Chief of Air Staff based on their experience and performance.

Q: I have forgotten the password while checking AFCAT result. What to do?

To retrieve the password while checking AFCAT result, candidates need to click the ' Forgot Password' tab. The system will ask candidates for some details to retrieve the password. After entering the details, the verification link will be sent to the candidate's registered email ID. After verification, the password will be reset. AFCAT result is valid till the merit list of that particular course is out. Once candidates get eliminated in any of the stages of recruitment. They need to take the test again and apply for a new course.

Q: I am not satisfied with AFCAT result. How to raise complaint?

There is no such facility to raise a complaint against the AFCAT result. The result once announced is considered final and no queries will be entertained by the examination authority. Candidates can file an RTI if they have any queries related to the result. AFCAT result for the online test is prepared out of 300 marks. Candidates clearing the online test are called for AFSB interview. The final merit list is prepared based on the performance in the online test and AFSB interview.

Q: Why is it important to get a good score in AFCAT exam?

Getting good marks in AFCAT increases chances of qualifying for the AFSB interview. The scores enhances your position in the merit list. It also motivated candidates to perform much better. This also helps in identifying the strengths.

Q: Does AFCAT has sectional cutoff?

Yes, there is sectional cut-off marks in the exam. Candidates need to secure the overall cut-off marks to get selected for AFSB Interview. Candidates securing equal to or more than the cut off marks are selected for the subsequent rounds of the selection process. Around 10,000 candidates are selected for the AFSB test based on their performance in the online test. The final selection is done based on the performance in the AFCAT and AFSB interview.

Q: What is the stipend offered to AFCAT officers during training?

The stipend offered to men and women cadets during the entire duration of training at any of the Air Force Training Institutions is INR 56,100 per month (Starting pay in Level 10). On successful completion of the training, the AFCAT salary of candidates in the pay matrix of Commissioned Officers will be fixed in the first cell of Level 10.

Q: What is the significance of scoring above the cutoff in AFCAT?

Candidates securing AFCAT cut off are called for the next round of selection process. The final selection of candidates is done based on the online test and AFSB interview. The total marks allotted to the online test are 300.