The Indian Air Force has extended the online application process for the AFCAT 01/2026 Batch Recruitment 2025, giving eligible candidates additional time to apply. This recruitment offers a valuable opportunity for both men and women to join the Air Force as commissioned officers in the Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches.
AFCAT remains one of the most respected defence recruitment examinations in India, opening the door to a disciplined career, structured training, leadership responsibilities, and the honor of serving the nation. The application process is conducted entirely online, and candidates must carefully review eligibility conditions before submitting their form.
AFCAT 01/2026 Important Dates (Extended)
The application schedule has been officially extended. Candidates should note the revised deadlines carefully.
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Online application start date: 17 November 2025
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Online application last date: 19 December 2025 (Extended)
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Last date for fee payment: 19 December 2025 (Extended)
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Publication of provisional selection list: To be notified
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Enrollment list: To be notified
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Result declaration: Will be updated soon
Applicants are advised to complete the application process well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Application Fee Details
The application fee structure varies by entry type.
Candidates applying through AFCAT entry are required to pay a fee of ₹550.
For NCC Special Entry and Meteorology Entry, no application fee is charged.
The fee must be paid online using available digital payment options such as debit card, credit card, internet banking, UPI, or mobile-based payment services.
Age Limit Criteria (As on 01 January 2027)
Candidates must fall within the prescribed age range to be eligible for AFCAT 01/2026.
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Minimum age: 20 years
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Maximum age: 26 years
Branch-wise age limits are as follows:
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Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years
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Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical): 20 to 26 years
Age relaxation is applicable as per Indian Air Force recruitment rules.
Total Vacancies Announced
A total of 340 vacancies have been announced under AFCAT 01/2026 across various branches and entry types. The final allocation depends on branch preference, merit position, and medical fitness.
AFCAT 01/2026 Eligibility Criteria (Branch-Wise)
Flying Branch
Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level, or possess a B.E. / B.Tech degree from a recognized institution.
Ground Duty (Technical Branch)
For Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics), candidates should have passed 10+2 with at least 60% marks in Physics and Mathematics, along with a four-year engineering or integrated postgraduate degree in relevant technical fields.
For Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical), candidates must meet the same 10+2 criteria and hold a four-year engineering degree in mechanical, aeronautical, industrial, or allied disciplines.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical Branch)
For Administration and Logistics, candidates should have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 60% marks.
For Accounts, a B.Com degree with at least 60% marks is required.
For Education, a postgraduate degree such as MBA, MCA, MA, or M.Sc. with a minimum of 50% marks is accepted.
Meteorology Entry
Candidates must possess a master’s degree in a relevant discipline from a recognized university.
NCC Special Entry (Flying Branch)
Applicants must hold an NCC Air Wing Senior Division “C” Certificate and meet Flying Branch educational and medical standards.
Height Requirements
The minimum height standards are:
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Men: 157.5 cm
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Women: 152 cm
Additional physical standards are applicable as per branch and Air Force guidelines.
How to Apply for AFCAT 01/2026 Batch Recruitment 2025
Candidates can apply online by following the steps below:
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Visit the official AFCAT recruitment portal.
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Click on the notification for AFCAT 01/2026 Batch Recruitment 2025.
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Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
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Log in with the generated credentials.
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Fill in personal, educational, and communication details carefully.
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Upload photograph, signature, and required documents in the prescribed format.
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Pay the application fee if applicable.
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Review the complete application form thoroughly.
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Submit the form and download a copy for future reference.
Ensure that the application is completed on or before 19 December 2025.
AFCAT 01/2026 Selection Process
The selection process involves multiple stages designed to assess knowledge, personality, and medical fitness.
The process includes:
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Written examination
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Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview
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Document verification
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Medical examination
Final selection is based on merit and availability of vacancies.
AFCAT 01/2026 Batch Recruitment 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is AFCAT 01/2026 recruitment?
AFCAT is a national-level selection process through which the Indian Air Force recruits officers for Flying and Ground Duty branches.
What is the extended last date to apply?
The online application last date has been extended to 19 December 2025.
Is there an application fee for all candidates?
Only AFCAT entry candidates need to pay ₹550. NCC Special Entry and Meteorology Entry candidates are exempted.
Who can apply for the Flying Branch?
Candidates aged 20–24 years with the required educational qualifications can apply for the Flying Branch.
How many total vacancies are available?
A total of 340 vacancies have been announced under AFCAT 01/2026.
Can female candidates apply?
Yes, both men and women are eligible to apply for AFCAT based on branch-specific vacancies.
What is the selection process?
The selection process includes a written exam, AFSB interview, document verification, and medical examination.
Does NCC Special Entry require a written exam?
No, candidates applying through NCC Special Entry are exempted from the AFCAT written examination.