Indian Air Force AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment 2026 notification released by Indian Air Force. Check eligibility, salary, age limit, exam pattern, selection process, application dates, and apply online for Flying and Ground Duty branches.
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 02/2026 notification has officially been released by the Indian Air Force for candidates who want to build a career as a Commissioned Officer. Through AFCAT 02/2026, eligible men and women can apply for the Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches.
Along with AFCAT entry, applications are also invited through NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry. Selected candidates will begin their training course from July 2027.
If you have been dreaming of wearing the Air Force uniform and serving the country, this is one of the biggest opportunities of the year.
Indian Air Force AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment 2026 : Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Exam Name | AFCAT 02/2026 |
| Entry Type | AFCAT / NCC Special Entry / GATE Entry |
| Branches | Flying, Technical, Non-Technical |
| Course Start | July 2027 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | AFCAT Official Portal |
Vacancy Details
The Indian Air Force is expected to fill 300+ vacancies through this recruitment across multiple branches.
Posts include:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical)
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
Detailed branch-wise vacancies will be available in the official notification.
Eligibility Criteria : Indian Air Force AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment 2026
Candidates must fulfill nationality, educational qualification, age, and physical fitness requirements.
Educational Qualification
Flying Branch
Candidates should have:
- Graduation in any discipline with minimum required marks
OR - B.E./B.Tech degree from a recognized university
Also, candidates must have studied Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level.
Ground Duty (Technical)
Candidates must have:
- B.E./B.Tech degree in relevant engineering disciplines such as:
- Mechanical
- Electrical
- Electronics
- Computer Science
- Aeronautical
Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
Candidates should possess:
- Graduation
OR - Post Graduation in relevant discipline
Age Limit
Flying Branch
- Minimum Age: 20 Years
- Maximum Age: 24 Years
Candidates holding a valid Commercial Pilot License may get relaxation up to 26 years.
Ground Duty Branches
- Minimum Age: 20 Years
- Maximum Age: 26 Years
Age will be calculated as per official notification rules.
Salary Details : Indian Air Force AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment 2026
One of the biggest attractions of AFCAT is the salary and benefits.
During Training
- Fixed Stipend: ₹56,100 per month
After Commissioning
| Pay Level | Salary |
|---|---|
| Level-10 | ₹56,100 to ₹1,77,500 |
Additional benefits include:
- Military Service Pay (MSP)
- Flying Allowance
- Transport Allowance
- Medical Facilities
- Canteen Benefits
- Housing Benefits
This makes AFCAT one of the most rewarding career opportunities in the defence sector.
Application Fee
| Entry Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry | ₹550 + GST |
| NCC Special Entry | No Fee |
| GATE Entry | No Fee |
Payment can be made online through Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, or Net Banking.
Selection Process : Indian Air Force AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment 2026
The selection process includes multiple stages:
1. Online Written Exam
Candidates applying through AFCAT entry must appear in the written examination.
2. AFSB Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be called for:
- Psychological Tests
- Group Tasks
- Personal Interview
3. Document Verification
Original educational and identity documents will be checked.
4. Medical Examination
Candidates must meet strict Air Force medical standards.
Final selection will be purely merit-based.
Exam Pattern
AFCAT Exam Pattern
| Subject | Questions |
|---|---|
| General Awareness | Included |
| Verbal Ability in English | Included |
| Numerical Ability | Included |
| Reasoning & Military Aptitude | Included |
| Exam Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Total Marks | 300 |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Negative Marking | 1 Mark Deduction for Wrong Answer |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 12 May 2026 |
| Online Application Start | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 19 June 2026 |
| Exam Date | To Be Announced |
| Training Commencement | July 2027 |
🔗 Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Join WhatsApp Channel | Click Here |
| Home Page | Click Here |
How to Apply Online : Indian Air Force AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment 2026
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official AFCAT portal: AFCAT Recruitment Portal
- Complete registration using your email and mobile number.
- Fill in your personal and academic details carefully.
- Upload your photograph, signature, and required documents.
- Pay the application fee if applicable.
- Submit the form and download the confirmation page.
FAQ
1. When will AFCAT 02/2026 applications start?
Online applications will begin on 20 May 2026.
2. What is the last date to apply for AFCAT 02/2026?
Candidates can apply online till 19 June 2026.
3. What is the salary after selection in AFCAT?
Selected officers receive a salary starting from ₹56,100 per month, plus allowances.
4. Is there negative marking in AFCAT?
Yes, negative marking is applicable in the AFCAT written exam.
Disclaimer
Candidates are advised to verify all eligibility conditions, age criteria, and branch-specific qualifications through the official notification before submitting the application form. Final selection and recruitment conditions will be governed by Indian Air Force rules and official updates published on the AFCAT portal.