The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the notification for AFCAT 02/2026 recruitment, inviting online applications for more than 300 vacancies in Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) branches. Candidates aspiring to serve the nation as commissioned officers in the Indian Air Force can apply online once the registration process begins.
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is one of the most prestigious defence entrance examinations in India. Every year, thousands of candidates compete for a chance to join the Indian Air Force as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers. The AFCAT 02/2026 recruitment drive offers an excellent opportunity for both men and women graduates seeking a career filled with honor, discipline, and adventure.
According to the official notification, the online application process for AFCAT 02/2026 will commence on May 20, 2026, and interested candidates can submit their applications until June 19, 2026.
AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | AFCAT 02/2026 |
| Conducting Authority | Indian Air Force |
| Total Vacancies | 300+ |
| Posts | Flying Branch & Ground Duty Branches |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Start Date | May 20, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | June 19, 2026 |
| Official Website | AFCAT Official Portal |
The recruitment aims to fill vacancies in multiple branches of the Indian Air Force for courses commencing in July 2027.
Branches Available Under AFCAT 2026
The AFCAT examination is conducted for recruitment into the following branches:
1. Flying Branch
Candidates selected in this branch become pilots in the Indian Air Force and undergo rigorous training.
2. Ground Duty (Technical) Branch
This branch is responsible for handling technical operations and aircraft maintenance.
3. Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch
Officers in this branch manage administration, logistics, accounts, education, and meteorology-related duties.
AFCAT 2026 Vacancy Details
The recruitment notification mentions over 300 vacancies across various branches. Detailed branch-wise vacancy distribution will be available in the complete notification released by the Indian Air Force.
Expected categories include:
- Flying Branch
- Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics)
- Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical)
- Administration
- Logistics
- Accounts
- Education
- Weapon Systems Branch
- Meteorology
Important Dates for AFCAT 02/2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | May 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | May 20, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | June 19, 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Before Exam |
| AFCAT Exam Date | To Be Announced |
Candidates are advised not to wait until the last date and complete the registration process early to avoid technical issues.
Eligibility Criteria for AFCAT 2026
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility conditions prescribed by the Indian Air Force.
Educational Qualification
Flying Branch
Candidates should have:
- Graduation with at least 60% marks in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level.
Ground Duty (Technical)
Applicants must possess:
- Engineering degree in relevant disciplines with minimum required marks.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
Candidates should hold a graduation or postgraduate degree depending on the branch.
Detailed discipline-wise educational qualifications will be available in the official notification.
Age Limit
Flying Branch
- Age should generally be between 20 to 24 years.
Ground Duty Branches
- Age limit usually ranges from 20 to 26 years.
Age relaxation norms apply according to Indian Air Force rules.
AFCAT 2026 Application Fee
Candidates applying through AFCAT entry are required to pay an examination fee of ₹550 plus applicable charges. However, NCC Special Entry candidates are exempted from payment of the examination fee.
Selection Process for AFCAT Recruitment
The AFCAT recruitment process consists of multiple stages:
1. Online Written Examination
Candidates first need to qualify for the AFCAT written test.
2. AFSB Interview
Shortlisted candidates are called for the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview.
3. Medical Examination
Candidates qualifying the interview undergo medical fitness tests.
4. Merit List
Final selection is based on overall performance and medical fitness.
AFCAT Exam Pattern 2026
The AFCAT exam generally includes questions from:
- General Awareness
- Verbal Ability in English
- Numerical Ability
- Reasoning and Military Aptitude
Exam Details
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Online |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Maximum Marks | 300 |
The exam is conducted in English language only.
Salary and Benefits
Selected candidates receive an attractive salary package along with various allowances and facilities.
Pay Scale
The starting basic pay for Flying Officer rank is around ₹56,100 per month along with military service pay and other allowances.
Additional Benefits
- Medical facilities
- Accommodation
- Travel allowances
- Insurance coverage
- Pension and retirement benefits
- Adventure activities
- Prestigious career opportunities
How to Apply for AFCAT 02/2026
Candidates can follow these steps to apply online:
- Visit the official AFCAT website.
- Register using email ID and mobile number.
- Fill out the online application form carefully.
- Upload scanned documents including photograph and signature.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Submit the form and download confirmation page.
Official website for application:
Indian Air Force AFCAT Portal
Documents Required for AFCAT Application
Candidates should keep the following documents ready:
- Passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Aadhaar Card
- Educational certificates
- Valid email ID and mobile number
Why Choose a Career in the Indian Air Force?
Joining the Indian Air Force is not just a job; it is an opportunity to serve the nation with pride. Officers in the Air Force enjoy:
- Respect and prestige
- Excellent career growth
- Challenging work environment
- Leadership opportunities
- World-class training
For many aspirants, AFCAT serves as the gateway to fulfilling their dream of becoming an Air Force officer.
Preparation Tips for AFCAT 2026
Candidates preparing for AFCAT should focus on:
- Current affairs and defence updates
- Quantitative aptitude
- English vocabulary and grammar
- Reasoning ability
- Mock tests and previous year papers
Consistency and time management are key to cracking the AFCAT examination.
Official Notification & Website
Candidates are advised to regularly visit the official websites for latest updates regarding exam dates, admit cards, and notifications.
The Indian Air Force AFCAT 02/2026 recruitment presents a golden opportunity for young aspirants looking to build a rewarding and prestigious career in defence services. With over 300 vacancies announced, eligible candidates should start preparing early and complete the application process within the given timeline.
AFCAT not only offers a stable government career but also provides an opportunity to serve the nation with pride and honor. Interested candidates should carefully check the eligibility criteria and submit their online applications before June 19, 2026.
