The Indian Air Force has officially released the AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment Notification for candidates aspiring to become Commissioned Officers in the Indian Air Force. Through the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 02/2026, eligible male and female candidates can apply for the Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches.
Applications are also invited under NCC Special Entry and GATE Entry schemes. Selected candidates will undergo training beginning in July 2027.
Candidates dreaming of serving the nation in the Air Force now have a golden opportunity to join one of India’s most prestigious defence forces.
Indian Air Force AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment 2026 – Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Exam Name | AFCAT 02/2026 |
| Entry Type | AFCAT / NCC Special Entry / GATE Entry |
| Branches | Flying, Technical, Non-Technical |
| Course Commencement | July 2027 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | AFCAT Official Portal |
Vacancy Details
The Indian Air Force is expected to recruit more than 300 vacancies through AFCAT 02/2026 across different branches.
Posts Included
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical)
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
Detailed category-wise and branch-wise vacancies will be released in the official notification.
Eligibility Criteria – AFCAT 02/2026
Candidates must fulfill nationality, educational qualification, age limit, and physical fitness requirements prescribed by the Indian Air Force.
Educational Qualification
Flying Branch
Candidates should possess:
- Graduation in any discipline with minimum required marks
OR - B.E./B.Tech degree from a recognized university
Additionally, candidates must have studied Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level.
Ground Duty (Technical)
Candidates must possess B.E./B.Tech degree in relevant engineering disciplines such as:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics Engineering
- Computer Science Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
Candidates should have:
- Graduation
OR - Post Graduation in a relevant discipline
Age Limit
Flying Branch
- Minimum Age: 20 Years
- Maximum Age: 24 Years
Candidates holding a valid Commercial Pilot License may receive age relaxation up to 26 years.
Ground Duty Branches
- Minimum Age: 20 Years
- Maximum Age: 26 Years
Age relaxation and calculation will be applicable as per official recruitment rules.
Salary Details – AFCAT 02/2026
One of the major attractions of AFCAT recruitment is the excellent salary package and benefits offered by the Indian Air Force.
During Training
- Fixed Stipend: ₹56,100 per month
After Commissioning
| Pay Level | Salary |
|---|---|
| Level-10 | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 |
Additional Benefits
- Military Service Pay (MSP)
- Flying Allowance
- Transport Allowance
- Medical Facilities
- Canteen Benefits
- Housing Facilities
AFCAT offers one of the best career opportunities in the Indian defence sector with attractive salary and long-term benefits.
Application Fee
| Entry Type | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry | ₹550 + GST |
| NCC Special Entry | No Fee |
| GATE Entry | No Fee |
Candidates can pay the fee online using:
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- UPI
- Net Banking
Selection Process – AFCAT 02/2026
The selection procedure consists of multiple stages.
1. Online Written Examination
Candidates applying through AFCAT entry must appear in the written exam.
2. AFSB Interview
Shortlisted candidates will undergo:
- Psychological Tests
- Group Tasks
- Personal Interview
3. Document Verification
Educational certificates and identity documents will be verified.
4. Medical Examination
Candidates must satisfy Air Force medical and physical standards.
Final selection will be based purely on merit and performance in all stages.
AFCAT 02/2026 Exam Pattern
| Subject Areas | Included |
|---|---|
| General Awareness | Yes |
| Verbal Ability in English | Yes |
| Numerical Ability | Yes |
| Reasoning & Military Aptitude | Yes |
| Exam Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Total Marks | 300 |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Negative Marking | 1 Mark Deduction for Wrong Answer |
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Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 12 May 2026 |
| Online Application Start | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 19 June 2026 |
| Exam Date | To Be Announced |
| Training Start | July 2027 |
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification | Download |
| Apply online | Click here |
| Official website | Click here |
How to Apply Online for AFCAT 02/2026
Follow the steps below to submit your online application form:
- Visit the official AFCAT portal: AFCAT Recruitment Portal
- Complete registration using your email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in personal, educational, and communication details carefully.
- Upload photograph, signature, and required documents.
- Pay the application fee through online payment methods.
- Submit the form and download the confirmation page for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will AFCAT 02/2026 online applications start?
The online application process will begin from 20 May 2026.
2. What is the last date to apply for AFCAT 02/2026?
Candidates can apply online till 19 June 2026.
3. What is the salary after selection through AFCAT?
Selected officers receive salary starting from ₹56,100 per month along with multiple allowances and benefits.
4. Is there negative marking in AFCAT?
Yes, AFCAT has negative marking for incorrect answers.
Disclaimer
Candidates are advised to verify all eligibility criteria, branch-wise qualifications, age limits, and official instructions through the official notification before submitting the online application form. Final recruitment and selection conditions will be governed by the rules and updates issued by the Indian Air Force.
Location: Bhujodi, Kachchh, Gujarat – 370020