Indian students aiming to join the Indian Air Force should note an important deadline. The last date to apply for the AFCAT 1 2026 exam is fast approaching. All eligible candidates must complete their online application by December 14, 2025 . AFCAT stands for Air Force Common Admission Test. This test is for joining the Flying, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches of the Indian Air Force.
The Indian Air Force has announced a total of 340 vacancies for this upcoming exam. This offers a chance for young individuals to start a career in the Air Force. Interested candidates must apply online through the official website: afcat.cdac.in .
AFCAT 1 2026 Key Information
Here is a summary of the important details for AFCAT 1 2026:
| Exam Name | AFCAT 1 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 340 |
| Application Deadline | December 14, 2025 |
| Age Limit | 20-24 years |
| Branches Available | Flying, Ground Duty (Technical), Ground Duty (Non-Technical) |
| Application Website | afcat.cdac.in |
Who Can Apply for AFCAT 1 2026?
Candidates must be between 20 and 24 years old to apply for AFCAT 1 2026. This age limit is standard for all branches. It is essential for all applicants to check the full eligibility requirements on the official website before starting their application process.
How to Apply for AFCAT 1 2026 Online
The application process for AFCAT 1 2026 is entirely online. Follow these clear steps to fill out your application form:
- Step 1: Visit the Official Website - Open your web browser and go to the AFCAT official website at afcat.cdac.in . This is the only place to apply.
- Step 2: Click 'Apply Now' - On the homepage, find and click on the 'Apply Now' link. This link will take you to the application portal.
- Step 3: Register as a New User - If you have not applied before, you must register first. Provide your details to create an account. Use an active email address for this step.
- Step 4: Log In to Your Account - After successfully registering, use your registered email ID and the password you created to log in.
- Step 5: Fill the Application Form - Carefully enter all the required information in the online application form. Make sure to double-check personal details, educational qualifications, and other requested data for accuracy.
- Step 6: Pay the Application Fee - Pay the application fee online. The fee is the same for all applicants. You can use a credit card, debit card, or net banking option to make the payment.
- Step 7: Submit the Form - After completing the payment, submit your online application form. It is important to confirm all information is correct before submitting, as you cannot make changes later.
Application Fee Details
All candidates applying for AFCAT 1 2026 must pay a fixed application fee. This fee must be paid online while filling out the application form. The Indian Air Force does not accept cash, cheques, or demand drafts (DD). Payments can only be made using credit cards, debit cards, or net banking through the payment gateway available on the official website.
How to Check Payment Status
After you successfully pay the AFCAT 1 2026 application fee, the system will display an AFCAT registration number. This number confirms that your payment was successful and your application has been received. It is critical to verify all information entered in your application form before moving to the 'Make Payment' option. Once you select your 'Course Preferences' and complete the 'Make Payment' step, you will not be able to edit any details in your application. Therefore, review all details carefully before making the final payment.
The application window closes on December 14, 2025 . Candidates should apply well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical problems.