Indian Air Force Recruitment 2025: Dreaming of soaring high in the sky while serving the nation? The Indian Air Force (IAF) has just announced a golden opportunity for aspiring patriots across India. Through the AFCAT 01/2026 notification, the IAF invites applications for Commissioned Officer positions in the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) roles.
This recruitment drive also includes NCC Special Entry for the Flying Branch, making it an ideal opportunity for disciplined and driven youth ready to lead India’s air defence. The online application window opens on November 10, 2025, and closes on December 9, 2025, for courses commencing in January 2027.
About AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is one of India’s most prestigious gateways to a defence career. Conducted by the IAF, it selects both men and women for Short Service Commission (SSC) and Permanent Commission (PC) roles, based on their aptitude, fitness, and leadership potential.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Body | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Exam Name | AFCAT 01/2026 |
| Posts | Flying Officer, Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Period | November 10 – December 9, 2025 |
| Salary Range | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 + MSP ₹15,500 |
| Course Start Date | January 2027 |
| Job Location | All India |
| Official Website | afcat.cdac.in |
This recruitment paves the way for candidates to train at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal (Hyderabad) — the cradle of India’s best air warriors.
AFCAT 01/2026 Vacancy Details
The detailed post-wise vacancies will be announced in the full notification on November 9, 2025. However, here’s what we know so far:
| Branch | Course Number | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Flying | 221/27F/SSC/M & W | To Be Notified |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | 220/27T/SSC/M & W | To Be Notified |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | 220/27G/SSC/M & W | To Be Notified |
| NCC Special Entry (Flying) | 221/27F/PC/M & SSC/M&W | 10% of total AFCAT/CDSE vacancies |
Once the complete advertisement is out, exact branch-wise and gender-wise seat distribution will be updated.
Eligibility Criteria for AFCAT 01/2026
Before you get started with the online application, check if you meet the key eligibility requirements.
Educational Qualification: Indian Air Force Recruitment 2025
The detailed education requirements will be published in the full notification. However, based on previous AFCAT cycles:
- Flying Branch:
- Passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
- Graduate with at least 60% marks or equivalent in any discipline.
- Ground Duty (Technical):
- B.E./B.Tech degree with 60% marks in specified engineering disciplines.
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical):
- Graduate in any discipline with 60% marks (for Administration or Logistics).
These are general guidelines — candidates must verify details in the official notification once released.
Age Limit (as on 01 January 2027)
| Branch | Age Range | Date of Birth Range |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 20 – 24 years | Born between 02 Jan 2003 – 01 Jan 2007 |
| Flying (with CPL) | Up to 26 years | Born between 02 Jan 2001 – 01 Jan 2007 |
| Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) | 20 – 26 years | Born between 02 Jan 2001 – 01 Jan 2007 |
AFCAT 01/2026 Salary and Perks
Joining the Indian Air Force isn’t just a matter of pride — it’s also a well-compensated and rewarding career.
- Rank at Commissioning: Flying Officer
- Pay Level: 10 in Defence Matrix
- Basic Pay: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month
- Military Service Pay (MSP): ₹15,500 per month
- Training Stipend: ₹56,100 per month (during one-year training)
Allowances & Benefits
You’ll enjoy numerous allowances depending on your role and posting:
- Flying Allowance
- Technical Allowance
- Transport Allowance
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Risk & Hardship Allowance
Other Perks
- Fully furnished accommodation
- CSD (Canteen) privileges
- Medical facilities for officers and dependents
- Loan benefits at concessional rates
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC)
- 60 days annual leave + 20 days casual leave
- Group Insurance Cover worth ₹1.25 crore
AFCAT 2025 Selection Process
The AFCAT 01/2026 selection process follows three main stages:
Stage 1: AFCAT Written Exam
An online computer-based test (CBT) to assess aptitude and subject knowledge.
- Subjects: General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Reasoning & Military Aptitude.
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marking: Negative marking for incorrect answers.
- EKT: Candidates for the Technical branch must take the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT).
Stage 2: AFSB Interview
Shortlisted candidates attend the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) for personality and leadership assessments.
Includes:
- Screening Test (PP&DT)
- Psychological Tests
- Group Discussions & Group Tasks
- Personal Interview with senior IAF officers
Stage 3: Medical Examination
A thorough medical evaluation ensures candidates meet IAF’s fitness standards. Only medically fit candidates appear in the final merit list.
Application Fee
| Entry Type | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry (All Categories) | ₹550 + GST |
| NCC Special Entry | No Fee |
Payment can be made online via debit/credit card or net banking. The fee is non-refundable.
How to Apply for AFCAT 01/2026
Here’s your step-by-step guide to completing the application successfully:
- Visit the official portal — afcat.cdac.in.
- Click on “Candidate Login” → “New Candidate Registration.”
- Register with your name, email ID, mobile number, and Aadhaar number.
- Log in with your new credentials and fill the application form.
- Upload scanned copies of your photo and signature (as per format).
- Enter your educational and personal details carefully.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Review all details and click Submit.
- Download and print the application confirmation page.
🪶 Tip: Keep your application number safe for future reference and correspondence.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Detailed Notification Release | 09 November 2025 |
| Application Start Date | 10 November 2025 (11:00 AM) |
| Application End Date | 09 December 2025 (11:30 PM) |
| Course Commencement | January 2027 |
Essential Links
- 🔗 Apply Online – Click Here
- 🔗 Official Notification – Coming Soon (09 Nov 2025)
- 🔗 Official Website
- 🔗 Join Telegram Channel
- 🔗 Join WhatsApp Group
Conclusion
There’s no greater honour than serving your nation from the skies. The AFCAT 01/2026 recruitment offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to become a Flying Officer in the Indian Air Force — a role that defines courage, leadership, and excellence.
So, gear up! Mark the important dates, prepare thoroughly, and get ready to “Touch the Sky with Glory.”
FAQs – Indian Air Force AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment
1. When will AFCAT 01/2026 applications begin?
Applications start on November 10, 2025.
2. What is the last date to apply for AFCAT 01/2026?
The last date for online submission is December 9, 2025.
3. Who can apply for AFCAT 01/2026 Flying Branch?
Candidates aged 20–24 years with Physics and Maths at 10+2 and a graduate degree can apply.
4. What is the salary of an Indian Air Force Flying Officer?
The pay scale is ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 plus allowances and an MSP of ₹15,500.
5. How many stages are there in the AFCAT selection process?
The process includes Written Exam, AFSB Interview, and Medical Examination.
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