The Indian Air Force (IAF) has extended the deadline to apply for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 1 2026. Students who wish to join the Indian Air Force can now submit their application forms until December 19 . This is a change from the previous deadline of December 14 . Interested candidates must apply online through the official website: afcat.cdac.in .
This extension gives more time for students to complete their applications to join a respected part of the Indian Armed Forces. The AFCAT exam is a key step for many young Indians aiming for a career as officers in the Air Force.
Important Dates for AFCAT 1 2026 Application
Here are the key dates related to the application process:
| Event | Date |
| Original Application Deadline | December 14 |
| New Application Deadline | December 19 |
Application Fee
All candidates applying for AFCAT 1 2026 must pay an application fee of INR 550 . This fee is required for all categories of applicants and is paid online during the application process. Make sure to complete the payment before the final submission.
Vacancies in Indian Air Force through AFCAT 1 2026
The IAF AFCAT 1 2026 recruitment drive aims to fill a total of 340 officer positions . These vacancies are available across various important branches of the Indian Air Force, offering diverse career paths for young graduates.
- Flying Branch : This branch is for candidates who aspire to become pilots. They fly fighter jets, transport aircraft, or helicopters.
- Ground Duty (Technical) Branch : This branch is for engineering and technical roles. Officers in this branch manage advanced equipment, aircraft maintenance, and technical systems.
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch : This branch covers various administrative and support roles. This includes managing logistics, accounts, education, administration, and meteorology within the Air Force.
Joining any of these branches offers a challenging and rewarding career, serving the nation and contributing to its defense.
How to Apply for AFCAT 1 2026 Online
The application process for AFCAT 1 2026 is fully online. Follow these simple steps to successfully submit your form:
- Step 1: Visit the Official Website : Open your web browser and go to the Indian Air Force AFCAT official website: afcat.cdac.in .
- Step 2: Find 'Apply Now' Link : On the homepage of the website, look for the 'Apply Now' link. Click on it to start your application.
- Step 3: Complete Registration : If you are applying for the first time, you will need to register. Provide basic details like your name, email ID, and mobile number. You will receive a registration ID and password.
- Step 4: Log In to Your Account : After successful registration, use your registered email ID and the password to log in to the application portal.
- Step 5: Fill the Application Form : Carefully fill in all the required information in the AFCAT 1 application form. This includes your personal details, educational qualifications, communication address, and other relevant information.
- Step 6: Select Course Preferences : Choose your preferred branches and courses from the options available (e.g., Flying, Ground Duty Technical, Ground Duty Non-Technical).
- Step 7: Pay the Application Fee : Proceed to pay the INR 550 application fee online using available payment methods.
- Step 8: Submit the Form : After making the payment, carefully review all the details you have entered. Once you are sure everything is correct, submit your application form.
Important Note for Applicants
Candidates must be very careful when filling out their application forms. The Indian Air Force has a strict rule regarding changes to the application. Once you select your 'Course Preferences' and complete the 'Make Payment' steps, you will not be allowed to edit any information that you have already filled in the form. Therefore, it is important to double-check all details before moving to these final stages of the application process.
Students are encouraged to apply well before the new deadline of December 19 to avoid any last-minute rush or technical problems. Ensure all documents are ready and information is accurate before starting the application.
