Meta Description: Hi friends! The Indian Air Force has released the highly anticipated AFCAT 1 Notification 2026 for prospective candidates seeking to join the Flying and Ground Duty branches. Stay updated with the application dates, eligibility criteria, and key details.
AFCAT 1 Notification 2026
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has made an exciting announcement with the release of the AFCAT 1 Notification 2026, aimed at recruiting motivated officers for the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is a prestigious examination for those aspiring to secure a commission in the Indian Air Force. Here are all the essential details to help you navigate this process.
Job Overview
| Job Role | Organization/Company |
|---|---|
| Officer (Flying and Ground Duty) | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Qualification | Experience |
|---|---|
| Graduation/Post Graduation degree as per branch requirements | Fresher |
| Salary | Job Type |
|---|---|
| ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month | Full-time |
| Location | Requirements |
|---|---|
| India | Citizenship, age limit, and educational qualifications as specified |
Key Details and Important Dates
The overview section encapsulates crucial information regarding the conducting authority, branches available, and the application timeline for AFCAT 01/2026.
Important Dates:
- Application Start Date: 10 November 2025 (11:00 AM)
- Application Last Date: 9 December 2025 (11:30 PM)
- Course Commencement: January 2027
AFCAT 1 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria established by the Indian Air Force. The criteria differ according to the branch—Flying or Ground Duty.
1. Nationality:
The candidate must be a citizen of India.
2. Age Limit (as of 01 January 2027):
- Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years (born between 02 January 2003 and 01 January 2007)
- Ground Duty: 20 to 26 years (born between 02 January 2001 and 01 January 2007)
3. Educational Qualification:
- Flying Branch: Candidates should have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics and hold a Graduation Degree with a minimum of 60% marks.
- Ground Duty (Technical): A degree in Engineering or Technology from a recognized university.
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university with a minimum of 60% marks.
AFCAT 1 2026 Application Process
Candidates interested in applying for AFCAT 01/2026 can do so through the official website of the Indian Air Force. Here’s a step-by-step guide for a smoother application experience:
- Click on the APPLY LINK provided.
- Visit the official website – OFFICIAL WEBSITE LINK.
- Navigate to the “AFCAT 1 2026 Apply Online” section.
- Register using your email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in personal, academic, and communication details.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and relevant certificates.
- Pay the required application fee (approx. ₹550 including GST).
- Submit the application and keep a printout for your records.
AFCAT 1 2026 Selection Process
The selection process for AFCAT 1 2026 includes multiple stages to evaluate candidates’ skills and readiness:
- Online Written Examination (AFCAT)
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview
- Medical Examination
Candidates who qualify all these stages will be admitted for training at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, Hyderabad.
AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Pattern
Here’s what you can expect when taking the AFCAT:
- Mode of Exam: Online (Computer-Based Test)
- Total Marks: 300
- Duration: 2 hours
- Questions: 100
- Subjects: General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Reasoning, and Military Aptitude
Each correct answer grants 3 marks, whereas each incorrect answer results in a deduction of 1 mark.
AFCAT 1 2026 Salary Structure
Upon successful selection through AFCAT, candidates will be commissioned as Flying Officers in the Indian Air Force, receiving the following:
- Rank: Flying Officer
- Pay Scale: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month (Level 10 of 7th CPC)
- Additional Benefits: Military Service Pay (MSP), Flying Allowance, Technical Allowance, and more as per IAF regulations.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will the AFCAT 1 2026 online application process begin?
The AFCAT 1 2026 online application process starts on 10 November 2025 (11:00 AM) and will continue until 9 December 2025 (11:30 PM). Candidates can apply online via the official website.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and has been sourced from official websites. We do not charge any fees for sharing this information.