Registration for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 1 2026 has started. Students who have completed their graduation can apply to become officers in the Indian Air Force. The online application process began on November 17, 2025 , and will close on December 14, 2025 . This test helps recruit young graduates for important roles in the Flying and Ground Duty branches of the Air Force.
AFCAT is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) twice a year. It is a key step for those who want to join the IAF as commissioned officers. This recruitment drive, known as AFCAT 1 2026, aims to find suitable candidates for various positions. Candidates must apply online through the official portal before the deadline.
Key Dates for AFCAT 1 2026 Registration
It is important for all interested candidates to remember these dates to avoid missing the application window:
| Event | Date |
| Start Date for AFCAT Registration | November 17, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply for AFCAT | December 14, 2025 |
Make sure to complete your application before the last date. No applications will be accepted after December 14, 2025.
Understanding AFCAT and Air Force Branches
The AFCAT exam is for joining the Indian Air Force as an officer. Officers lead and manage various tasks in the Air Force. There are mainly two types of branches for which candidates can apply through AFCAT:
- Flying Branch: Officers in this branch become pilots. They fly fighter jets, transport aircraft, or helicopters. This role requires strong skills and quick decision-making.
- Ground Duty Branch: This branch supports the Flying Branch and overall Air Force operations. It has two main types:
- Technical Branch: Officers here manage and maintain aircraft, weapon systems, and other technical equipment. They work on engineering, electronics, and mechanical tasks.
- Non-Technical Branch: Officers in this branch handle administrative, logistics, education, accounts, and meteorology duties. They ensure smooth functioning of Air Force stations and units.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Conditions)
Before applying, candidates must check if they meet the basic requirements. These include age, educational qualifications, and marital status.
Age Limit
- For the Flying Branch , candidates must be between 20 and 24 years old as of January 1, 2026. This means candidates born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2006 (both dates included), can apply.
- For the Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) Branches , candidates must be between 20 and 26 years old as of January 1, 2026. This means candidates born between January 2, 2000, and January 1, 2006 (both dates included), can apply.
Please note that for the Flying Branch, upper age limit is relaxed by two years for those holding a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) issued by DGCA (India).
Educational Qualification
All applicants must have completed their graduation with at least 60% marks . Specific degree requirements may vary for different Ground Duty branches, but a general graduation degree is a must. Students in their final year of graduation can also apply, but they must provide proof of passing their degree with the required marks before joining the training.
Marital Status
All candidates applying for AFCAT must be unmarried . If a candidate gets married during the training period, they will be removed from the course and will not be able to join the Indian Air Force as an officer.
How to Apply for AFCAT 1 2026
The application process is entirely online. Here are the simple steps to register:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official AFCAT career website.
- Register: If you are a new user, create an account by providing your name, valid email ID, and mobile number. All future communications will be sent to these registered details.
- Log In: Use your registered email ID and password to log in to the application portal.
- Fill the Application Form: Carefully fill in all your personal details, educational qualifications, and other required information.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and other necessary documents as per the instructions.
- Select Branch Preference: Choose your preferred branch (Flying, Ground Duty Technical, or Ground Duty Non-Technical) based on your eligibility and interest.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay the application fee online using debit card, credit card, or net banking. (The fee amount will be mentioned on the official website).
- Review and Submit: Review all the entered details to ensure they are correct. Then, submit your application form.
- Download Confirmation: After successful submission, download and print a copy of your application form for your records.
What Happens After Applying?
After the application window closes, candidates will receive their admit cards for the AFCAT written exam. The exam tests candidates on General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning and Military Aptitude. Those who clear the written exam will go through further selection stages, including an Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview, medical examination, and final merit list preparation. Selected candidates will then undergo rigorous training at Air Force academies to become commissioned officers.
Joining the Indian Air Force offers a respected career path, a chance to serve the nation, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Interested graduates should make sure to apply before December 14, 2025 .
