The Indian Air Force has released the AFCAT 1 2026 Notification, inviting applications from young aspirants who dream of wearing the blue uniform. This is a golden opportunity to join one of the world’s most prestigious air forces as an officer in the Flying Branch or Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) branches. The online application process begins on 17 November 2025 and will continue till 14 December 2025, while the AFCAT 1 2026 exam is expected to be held in February 2026, and the course will commence in January 2027. Candidates can apply through the official websites — afcat.cdac.in or afcat.edcil.co.in.

AFCAT, or the Air Force Common Admission Test, is conducted twice a year to recruit officers into the Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) roles. This examination offers a path to a life of adventure, discipline, and national service. The notification announces approximately 340 vacancies across various branches, including Flying, Technical (AE-L & AE-M), and Non-Technical (Administration, Logistics, Accounts, Education, and Meteorology). The exact distribution of vacancies will be available on the IAF portal in the detailed advertisement.

To be eligible, candidates must meet both age and educational qualifications. For the Flying Branch, the age limit is 20 to 24 years (born between 2 Jan 2003 and 1 Jan 2007), while for Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical), it is 20 to 26 years (born between 2 Jan 1999 and 1 Jan 2007). Educationally, candidates for the Flying Branch must have scored at least 50% in Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 and 60% marks in graduation, or hold a BE/B.Tech degree. For Technical branches, an engineering degree in the relevant field is required, while for Non-Technical roles, a graduation degree (Admin/Logistics), B.Com (Accounts), or Post Graduation (Education) is necessary.

The selection process consists of three stages — a written exam, an AFSB interview, and a medical examination. The written test is objective and includes sections on General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Reasoning, and Military Aptitude, totaling 300 marks and 100 questions, to be completed in 2 hours. Each wrong answer carries a penalty of 1 mark. Those who clear the written test will proceed to the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) for psychological tests, group tasks, and a personal interview, followed by a medical test conducted at AFCME, New Delhi or IAM, Bengaluru.

Clearing AFCAT offers the opportunity to serve as a Class-I Gazetted Officer in the Indian Air Force, with options for both Short Service Commission (SSC) and Permanent Commission (PC). Officers enjoy an adventurous lifestyle, excellent pay and perks, and immense respect in society. To apply, candidates must register on the official AFCAT portal, fill in the form carefully, upload the required documents, pay the fee of ₹550 + GST, and submit the application.

Aspirants are advised to start revising current affairs, defence updates, and reasoning topics. Practice mock tests regularly to improve accuracy and speed, and read about IAF aircraft, ranks, commands, and recent operations such as Operation Sindoor, which are often asked during interviews. Maintaining physical fitness from day one will also help in clearing the AFSB stage.

In conclusion, AFCAT 1 2026 is not just an examination — it’s a gateway to a life of honor, leadership, and purpose. If you have the courage, discipline, and passion to serve the nation, now is the time to take off. Apply early, prepare smartly, and aim for the sky!