AFCAT 01/2026 – Indian Air Force Flying Officer & Ground Duty Recruitment, Vacancy, Eligibility & Exam Pattern
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has released the short notification for AFCAT 01/2026 recruitment inviting applications for Flying Officer and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) posts. The online application process will start from 10 November 2025 and close on 9 December 2025. The selected candidates will join the course commencing January 2027.
- Recruiting Body: Indian Air Force (IAF)
- Exam Name: AFCAT 01/2026
- Posts: Flying Officer, Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical)
- Total Vacancies: 284 for Flying Officer (others to be notified)
- Course Start: January 2027
- Application Window: 10 Nov 2025 to 9 Dec 2025
- Application Fee: ₹550 (Gen/OBC/EWS/SC/ST)
- Official Website: afcat.cdac.in
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 8 – 14 November 2025 (Employment News) |
| Online Application Begins | 10 November 2025 (11:00 AM) |
| Last Date to Apply | 9 December 2025 (11:30 PM) |
| Exam Date | To be notified later |
| Course Commencement | January 2027 |
Vacancy & Qualification
| Post | Vacancy | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Officer | 284 | Graduate in relevant field / B.Tech for Technical Branch |
| Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) | To be notified | Graduate with 60% marks (Technical or Non-Technical relevant degree) |
Age Limit (as on 01.01.2027)
- Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years
- Ground Duty (Technical/Non-Technical): 20 to 26 years
- Relaxations as per government rules applicable
Application Fee
- General, OBC, EWS, SC, ST: ₹550 (non-refundable)
- Payment Mode: Online through credit/debit card, net banking
- Fee exempted for NCC Special Entry candidates
Selection Process
- Written Examination (AFCAT) - Computer Based Test
- SSB Interview (Service Selection Board)
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List based on combined performance
Exam Pattern
| Section | Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 20 | 60 | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Verbal Ability in English | 30 | 90 | |
| Numerical Ability | 15 | 45 | |
| Reasoning & Military Aptitude Test | 35 | 105 | |
| Total | 100 | 300 |
How to Apply
- Visit the official AFCAT website: afcat.cdac.in
- Register using valid personal details and create your login credentials.
- Fill the online application form carefully and upload required documents (photo, signature, mark sheet).
- Pay the application fee online through the prescribed payment modes.
- Submit the application form and download/print the confirmation page for future reference.
- Check official website regularly for updates on admit cards, exam dates, and results.
🔔 Note: Only candidates meeting eligibility criteria and applying within the deadline will be considered. Prepare as per AFCAT syllabus and stay updated with official notifications.
Conclusion
The AFCAT 01/2026 recruitment is a prestigious pathway to join the Indian Air Force as a commissioned officer in Flying or Ground Duty branches. With competitive selection through a structured exam, interview, and medical process, this recruitment offers a promising career with attractive salary and benefits. Eligible aspirants should apply online timely and start preparing as per the official syllabus to maximize their chances.
Last Date to Apply: 9 December 2025
