The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment Notification for candidates who wish to join the Air Force as commissioned officers. Through this recruitment drive, eligible men and women can apply for 379 vacancies in the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches.
If serving the country while building a rewarding career has always been your goal, this recruitment is worth considering. Before applying, candidates should carefully read the official notification to understand the eligibility conditions, important dates, and selection process.
AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment 2026 Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Examination Name | AFCAT 02/2026 |
| Post Name | Commissioned Officer |
| Total Vacancies | 379 (Tentative) |
| Branches | Flying, Ground Duty Technical, Ground Duty Non-Technical |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Job Location | Across India |
| Training Course | July 2027 |
| Official Website | https://afcat.edcil.co.in/ |
Important Dates
Candidates should complete the application process before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | May 2026 |
| Online Application Started | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 21 June 2026 (Extended) |
| Application Correction Window | 29–30 June 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Before Examination |
| AFCAT Exam Date | 08 August 2026 |
| Result Declaration | To Be Announced |
AFCAT 02/2026 Vacancy Details
The Indian Air Force has announced 379 tentative vacancies under different branches.
The available branches include:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical)
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
Candidates can check the official notification for complete branch-wise vacancy distribution.
Educational Qualification
The required qualification depends on the branch selected by the candidate.
Flying Branch
- Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
- A Graduation degree or BE/B.Tech with the required percentage from a recognized university is necessary.
Ground Duty (Technical)
- Applicants should possess an Engineering Degree in the relevant discipline.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
- Candidates must have a Graduation or Postgraduate degree in the relevant field as prescribed in the notification.
Applicants should carefully verify the detailed eligibility requirements before submitting the application form.
Age Limit
Flying Branch
- Minimum Age: 20 Years
- Maximum Age: 24 Years
Candidates holding a valid Commercial Pilot Licence may receive age relaxation according to the official rules.
Ground Duty Branches
- Minimum Age: 20 Years
- Maximum Age: 26 Years
Age will be calculated as mentioned in the official notification.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry | ₹550 + GST |
| NCC Special Entry | As Per Official Rules |
The application fee can be paid through online payment methods such as Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
Selection Process
The recruitment process consists of multiple stages.
- Online AFCAT Written Examination
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Only candidates who qualify for each stage will be considered for final selection.
AFCAT Exam Pattern
The online examination includes questions from the following subjects:
- General Awareness
- English Language
- Numerical Ability
- Reasoning and Military Aptitude
Exam Duration: 2 Hours
Mode of Examination: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Negative marking is applicable for incorrect answers.
Salary and Benefits
Candidates selected as Air Force Officers receive an attractive salary package along with several additional benefits.
Some major benefits include:
- Competitive Pay Scale
- Military Service Pay
- Dearness Allowance
- House Rent Allowance
- Medical Facilities
- Leave Benefits
- Pension and Retirement Benefits
- Career Growth Opportunities
- Adventure Activities and Training
Physical Fitness Requirements
Candidates are encouraged to maintain good physical fitness before attending the AFSB interview.
Basic fitness preparation may include:
- 1.6 km Running
- Push-ups
- Sit-ups
- Chin-ups
- Regular Physical Exercise
Maintaining physical fitness can improve overall performance during the selection process.
Documents Required
Before filling out the application form, keep the following documents ready.
- Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- Class 10 Marksheet or Certificate
- Class 12 Marksheet
- Graduation Certificate
- Engineering Degree (if applicable)
- Valid Photo Identity Proof
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
- NCC Certificate (if applicable)
How to Apply Online for AFCAT 02/2026
Candidates can complete the application process by following these steps.
Step 1: Visit the official AFCAT website.
Step 2: Complete the registration using a valid email ID and mobile number.
Step 3: Log in using the registered credentials.
Step 4: Fill in the online application form carefully with accurate information.
Step 5: Upload the required photograph, signature, and other documents.
Step 6: Pay the application fee through the available online payment options.
Step 7: Review all the entered details before submitting the application.
Step 8: Submit the application form and download the confirmation page for future reference.
Why Join the Indian Air Force?
A career in the Indian Air Force is more than just a government job. It offers an opportunity to serve the nation while enjoying excellent career growth and financial security.
Some key advantages include:
- Prestigious Officer Rank
- Attractive Salary
- Excellent Promotion Opportunities
- Job Security
- Medical Benefits
- Pension Benefits
- Professional Training
- Leadership Development
- Opportunity to Serve the Nation
Preparation Tips for AFCAT 2026
Candidates preparing for AFCAT should follow a smart study plan.
- Understand the latest syllabus.
- Solve previous years’ question papers.
- Attempt regular mock tests.
- Improve English vocabulary.
- Practice reasoning and numerical ability daily.
- Read current affairs every day.
- Focus on physical fitness along with written exam preparation.
Consistency and regular practice can significantly improve your chances of success.
If you are from Delhi High Court HJS you can check your Admit Card from the given link: SSB Head Constable Medical Cadre Recruitment 2026
Some Useful Important Links
| Details | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Official AFCAT Application Portal |
| Official Notification PDF | Download Here |
| Official Website | Indian Air Force |
| Admit Card | Available Before Exam |
| Result | Available After Examination |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment?
AFCAT 02/2026 is a recruitment examination conducted by the Indian Air Force to select officers for the Flying Branch and Ground Duty branches.
Q2. How many vacancies have been announced?
A total of 379 tentative vacancies have been announced through AFCAT 02/2026.
Q3. Who can apply for AFCAT 02/2026?
Candidates with the required Graduation or Engineering qualification who meet the prescribed age limit can apply.
Q4. What is the application mode?
The application process is completely online.
Q5. What is the selection process?
The selection process includes the Online Written Examination, AFSB Interview, Medical Examination, and Final Merit List.
Q6. When will the AFCAT 02/2026 exam be conducted?
The examination is scheduled to be held on 08 August 2026.
