AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment 2025: Indian Air Force Announces 340 Officer Vacancies – Apply From 17 November
By RKB Jobs 4 all
20th Nov,2025
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the notification for AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment 2025, inviting applications for 340 vacancies across the Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches. This recruitment offers an excellent opportunity for young men and women to join the elite force as Commissioned Officers. The online application process will begin on 17 November 2025, and eligible candidates can apply until 14 December 2025.
Below is the complete information about eligibility, age limit, vacancies, salary structure, selection process, and other important details.
Overview of AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment
AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) is conducted twice every year to select officers for various branches of the Indian Air Force. The 01/2026 recruitment cycle is one of the major openings for aspirants aiming to join the Armed Forces in 2026–27.
Important Dates
Application Start Date: 17 November 2025 (11:00 AM)
Last Date to Apply: 14 December 2025 (11:30 PM)
AFCAT Written Exam Date: 31 January 2026
Course Commencement: January 2027
Application Mode: Online
Official Website: https://afcat.edcil.co.in
Total Vacancies – 340 Posts
The Indian Air Force has announced 340 vacancies (tentative) for this cycle. The posts are divided among the following branches:
1. Flying Branch
Short Service Commission (SSC) for both men and women
Approx. 38 vacancies
2. Ground Duty – Technical Branch
Includes:
Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics)
Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical)
Vacancies available for both Permanent Commission (PC) and Short Service Commission (SSC).
3. Ground Duty – Non-Technical Branch
Includes:
Administration
Logistics
Accounts
Education
Meteorology
4. NCC Special Entry (Flying Branch)
Reserved for candidates with NCC 'C' Certificate (Air Wing).
Note: Final vacancy distribution may vary based on Air Force requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility requirements differ from branch to branch. The age limit is calculated as on 01 January 2027.
1. Age Limit
Flying Branch
20 to 24 years
CPL (Commercial Pilot License) holders: Upper age limit relaxed to 26 years
Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical)
20 to 26 years
2. Educational Qualification
Flying Branch
10+2 with Physics and Mathematics (min 50% each)
AND
Graduation (any discipline) with 60%, OR
BE/BTech with 60%, OR
Cleared Section A & B of AMIE / Aeronautical Society with 60%
Technical Branch (AE – Electronics / Mechanical)
10+2 with Physics & Maths (50%)
Degree in Engineering/Technology with 60%
Eligible engineering disciplines are specified in the notification.
Ground Duty Non-Technical Branch
Administration/Logistics: Graduation with 60%
Accounts: B.Com/BBA or professional qualification (CA/CMA/CS) with 60%
Education: Graduation with 60% + Post-Graduation with 50%
Meteorology: BSc with Physics & Maths OR BE/BTech with 60%
Selection Process
The selection procedure for AFCAT 01/2026 consists of three main stages:
1. AFCAT Written Exam
A computer-based test covering:
General Awareness
Reasoning & Military Aptitude
Numerical Ability
Verbal Ability in English
2. AFSB Interview
Qualified candidates will be called for a 5-day Air Force Selection Board evaluation which includes:
Psychological Tests
Group Tasks
Personal Interview
CPSS test (only for Flying Branch)
3. Medical Examination
Medical fitness tests will be conducted at authorized centres.
The final merit list is prepared based on the performance in written exam + AFSB interview, subject to medical fitness.
Salary Structure & Perks
Indian Air Force officers receive one of the best pay and allowances in the country.
1. Pay Scale
Level 10 (7th CPC): ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month
2. Military Service Pay
₹15,500 per month
3. Training Stipend
Candidates receive ₹56,100 per month during training at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal.
4. Additional Allowances
Depending on branch and posting:
Flying Allowance
Technical Allowance
Dearness Allowance
Transport Allowance
Field Area Allowance
Uniform Allowance
5. Other Benefits
Free medical facilities
Subsidized housing
CSD canteen
Insurance coverage
Leave travel concession (LTC)
Permanent career growth and promotions
Application Fee
₹550 + GST (non-refundable)
Applicable for AFCAT entry
No fee for NCC Special Entry candidates
How to Apply for AFCAT 01/2026
1. Visit the official AFCAT website: afcat.edcil.co.in
2. Click on “New Registration” and create a profile.
3. Fill in personal, academic, and communication details.
4. Select your desired branch and entry type.
5. Upload photo, signature, and required documents.
6. Pay the application fee online.
7. Submit the form and download the confirmation page.
Why AFCAT Is a Golden Opportunity
Chance to serve the nation as a Commissioned Officer
Job security, high salary, and exceptional benefits
Opportunity to work in flying, engineering, administrative, and technical fields
Excellent career growth and respect in society
Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology
Conclusion
The AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment 2025 brings a prestigious opportunity for Indian youth to join the Indian Air Force in 2027. With 340 vacancies across multiple branches, attractive salaries, and a challenging yet rewarding career, this recruitment cycle is ideal for those who wish to build a future in the defence sector.
Aspiring candidates are advised to check the eligibility criteria carefully and submit their applications between 17 November and 14 December 2025. Timely preparation for the written test and AFSB interview will play a crucial role in selection.
0 Comments