Indian Air Force (IAF) invites online applications for admission through the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 01/2026 for the January 2027 course. This recruitment offers opportunities across Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches, including eligible entries such as NCC Special Entry and Meteorology.
Application Window: 17 November 2025 to 19 December 2025 (extended). Candidates should verify all eligibility and instructions on the official AFCAT portal before applying.
Position Overview
Selected candidates will undergo training for commissioning as officers in the Indian Air Force, contributing to national defense, aviation operations, engineering support, administration, logistics, education, accounts, and meteorological services depending on the branch and role allotted.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform duties aligned with the allotted branch (Flying / Technical / Non-Technical) in accordance with Indian Air Force standards and operational requirements.
- Successfully complete mandated training and professional development programs during the course period.
- Maintain discipline, physical fitness, and medical standards required for Air Force service.
- Execute assigned tasks during postings, including operational readiness, technical maintenance/engineering support, administrative coordination, logistics planning, accounts management, instructional/education responsibilities, or weather-related analysis (as applicable).
Available Branches / Posts (Indicative)
Total Posts: 340
- Flying Branch (AFCAT): 30
- Ground Duty (Technical):
- Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics) AE (L) – SSC (Men): 10
- Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) AE (M) – SSC (Men): 38
- AE (L) – PC: 03
- AE (M) – PC: 09
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical):
- Administration: 48
- Logistics (LGS): 09
- Accounts: 08
- Education: 02
- Weapon Systems (WS) Branch: 21
- Meteorology: 01
- NCC Special Entry (Flying): As per notified reservation/availability
Eligibility Requirements
Age Limit (as on 01 January 2027)
- Minimum: 20 years
- Maximum: 26 years
- Flying Branch: 20–24 years
- Ground Duty (Technical/Non-Technical): 20–26 years
- Age relaxation as per Indian Air Force/AFCAT rules.
Educational Qualifications (Branch-wise)
- Flying Branch: Bachelor’s Degree in any stream with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or B.E./B.Tech from a recognized university.
- Ground Duty (Technical) – AE (Electronics): 10+2 with at least 60% marks in Physics and Mathematics, plus minimum 4-year Graduation/Integrated PG Degree in Engineering/Technology (as applicable to the notified discipline).
- Ground Duty (Technical) – AE (Mechanical): 10+2 with at least 60% marks in Physics and Mathematics, plus 4-year degree in Engineering/Technology in Mechanical/Industrial/Aeronautical (as applicable to the notified discipline).
- Administration & Logistics: Bachelor’s Degree in any stream with minimum 60% marks.
- Accounts: B.Com with minimum 60% marks.
- Education: MBA/MCA/MA/M.Sc with minimum 50% marks.
- Meteorology: Master’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university (as per notification).
- NCC Special Entry (Flying): NCC Air Wing Senior Division “C” Certificate plus Flying Branch eligibility criteria.
Physical Standards (Indicative for certain Ground Duty Non-Technical roles)
- Minimum Height (Male): 157.5 cm
- Minimum Height (Female): 152 cm
- All candidates must meet medical and physical standards as prescribed by the Indian Air Force.
Selection Process
- Written Examination
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB)
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
Application Fee
- All Candidates: ₹550/-
- NCC Special Entry: ₹0/-
- Meteorology Entry: ₹0/-
Online Payment Modes: Debit Card, Credit Card, Internet Banking, IMPS, Cash Card/Mobile Wallet.
Benefits
- Opportunity to serve as an officer in the Indian Air Force with structured career progression (as per branch and commission type).
- World-class training and professional development.
- Competitive pay and allowances as per Government/IAF norms (as applicable).
- Access to medical facilities, accommodation, and other service benefits as per IAF rules.
- Prestige, leadership experience, and exposure to cutting-edge aviation/defense operations.
About the Organization
The Indian Air Force is the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces, responsible for safeguarding Indian airspace and conducting aerial warfare. Through AFCAT, the IAF recruits capable graduates and postgraduates for officer roles across operational flying, engineering/technical support, and key ground duty functions that enable mission readiness and national security.
How to Apply
- Apply online via the official AFCAT portal within the application window.
- Complete the form accurately and upload required documents as instructed.
- Pay the applicable fee online (if required).
- Submit the application before 19 December 2025 (extended deadline).
Official Website: https://afcat.cdac.in/AFCAT/
Note: Dates such as publication of PSL, enrollment list, and result updates will be notified on the official website.