The Indian Air Force has released the official AFCAT 01/2026 recruitment notification, inviting online applications for 340 Commissioned Officer posts in Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical) and Ground Duty (Non-Technical). The detailed advertisement has been published in PDF format, and interested candidates can now apply online for one of the most prestigious defence careers in the country. The AFCAT exam is a gateway for young men and women who aspire to serve the nation as an Air Force officer.
I am sharing this update because AFCAT offers a direct entry into the armed forces without the need for engineering degrees for every branch, which makes it accessible to graduates from diverse backgrounds. The Air Force not only offers a disciplined lifestyle and adventure but also provides attractive pay, perks, and a respected identity. Many aspirants miss such opportunities due to late awareness or confusion about eligibility and application dates. By understanding the notification clearly and applying on time, candidates can plan their preparation smartly and secure a chance to join one of the strongest air defence forces in the world.
Indian Air Force Vacancy: Overview
| Application Start Date | 17/11/2025 |
| Application Submit Last Date | 14/12/2025 |
| Notification | Click Here |
| Online Apply | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
Vacancies Under AFCAT 01/2026
The recruitment includes positions in:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical)
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
- NCC Special Entry
Total Vacancies: 340
The exact branch-wise distribution is available in the official PDF notification.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Eligibility depends on the branch:
- Flying Branch: Minimum 50% marks in graduation with Physics & Maths at 10+2 level
- Ground Duty (Technical): Engineering degree in relevant discipline
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Graduate degree in any stream with required percentage
Age Limit
- Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years
- Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical): 20 to 26 years
Age relaxation applicable for NCC and Commercial Pilot Licence holders as per rules.
Marital Status
- Candidates below 25 years must be unmarried.
Selection Process
The AFCAT selection procedure consists of:
- Written Exam (Online Mode)
- AFSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Document Verification
Candidates applying through NCC Special Entry are exempted from the written exam.
Training and Commission
Selected candidates will undergo training at Air Force academies and will be commissioned as Gazetted Officers upon successful completion. Training includes academic, physical, and flying or technical modules depending on the branch.
How to Apply Online
Candidates must submit their application through the official AFCAT online portal.
Steps to Apply
- Visit the official AFCAT application page
- Register using your email ID and create a login
- Fill in personal, academic and branch preference details
- Upload required documents and photograph
- Pay the examination fee (not applicable for NCC Special Entry)
- Submit the form and download the confirmation
It is advisable to save a print copy of the application for future reference.


















