The Indian Air Force (IAF) has published the detailed notification for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 01/2027 for admission to Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. The recruitment is for courses commencing in January 2028.
Through this recruitment, the Indian Air Force intends to induct eligible candidates as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers. Both men and women can apply for the eligible branches, subject to the prescribed educational qualifications, age limit, medical standards and other conditions.
A total of 284 vacancies have been notified under AFCAT Entry and GATE Score Entry. The application process starts on 12 November 2026 and the last date for submission of the online application is 11 December 2026.
Candidates interested in serving as commissioned officers in the Indian Air Force should read the complete notification carefully before applying.
IAF AFCAT 01/2027 Recruitment 2026 – Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Examination Name | Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 01/2027 |
| Recruitment Year | 2026–2027 |
| Course Commencement | January 2028 |
| Post Name | Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officer |
| Branches | Flying, Ground Duty Technical and Ground Duty Non-Technical |
| Total Vacancies | 284 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Start Date | 12 November 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 11 December 2026 |
| AFCAT Exam Date | 31 January 2027 |
| Selection Process | AFCAT / GATE Entry, AFSB Testing and Medical Examination |
| Job Location | Across India |
| Official Website | https://careerairforce.gov.in/ |
| Application Portal | https://afcat.edcil.co.in/ |
IAF AFCAT 01/2027 Vacancy Details – 284 Posts
The Indian Air Force has announced vacancies under AFCAT Entry and GATE Score Entry. The vacancies are distributed among Flying, Ground Duty Technical and Ground Duty Non-Technical branches.
Branch-wise Vacancy Distribution
| Entry | Branch | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry | Flying Branch | 36 |
| AFCAT Entry | Ground Duty (Technical) – AE(L) | 88 |
| AFCAT Entry | Ground Duty (Technical) – AE(M) | 36 |
| AFCAT Entry | Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | 108 |
| GATE Score Entry | Ground Duty (Technical) | 16 |
| Total | 284 |
Detailed Vacancy Distribution – AFCAT Entry
| Branch / Sub-Branch | Men (PC) | Women (PC) | Men (SSC) | Women (SSC) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flying | – | – | 28 | 8 | 36 |
| AE(L) – Technical | 5 | 2 | 54 | 27 | 88 |
| AE(M) – Technical | 8 | 2 | 18 | 8 | 36 |
| Weapon Systems | – | – | 25 | 5 | 30 |
| Administration | 1 | 1 | 34 | 17 | 53 |
| Logistics | 1 | 1 | 6 | 3 | 11 |
| Accounts | 1 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 8 |
| Education | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| Meteorology | 1 | 1 | – | – | 2 |
| Total AFCAT Entry | 18 | 9 | 169 | 72 | 268 |
GATE Score Entry Vacancies
| Branch | Men (PC) | Women (PC) | Men (SSC) | Women (SSC) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AE(L) | 1 | 1 | 6 | 3 | 11 |
| AE(M) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 5 |
| Total GATE Entry | 2 | 2 | 8 | 4 | 16 |
Note: The vacancies are tentative and may change depending on organisational requirements, availability of training slots and other service requirements. Two seats from Ground Duty Non-Technical vacancies are reserved for candidates holding an LLB degree. NCC Special Entry has separate provisions linked to CDSE and AFCAT vacancies and is not included as a separate fixed vacancy count in the 284 total.
Type of Commission
The recruitment offers Permanent Commission (PC) and Short Service Commission (SSC), depending on the branch and vacancy.
Permanent Commission (PC):
- Available for eligible men and women in the notified branches.
- Officers continue to serve until the age of superannuation applicable to their rank and branch.
Short Service Commission (SSC):
- Flying Branch: 14 years from the date of commissioning.
- Ground Duty Technical and Non-Technical: Initial tenure of 10 years.
- An extension of up to 4 years may be granted, subject to service requirements, availability of vacancies, willingness, suitability and merit.
- Grant of Permanent Commission at a later stage may be considered under the prevailing policy.
- SSC officers are not entitled to pension.
IAF AFCAT 01/2027 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must fulfil the prescribed nationality, age, educational qualification, marital status and physical and medical standards.
1. Nationality
The applicant must be a citizen of India as per the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955.
2. Age Limit
The age limit is calculated as on 1 January 2028.
| Branch | Age Limit | Date of Birth |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch (AFCAT and NCC Special Entry) | 20 to 24 years | 2 January 2004 to 1 January 2008 |
| Flying Branch with valid and current DGCA Commercial Pilot Licence | Up to 26 years | 2 January 2002 to 1 January 2008 |
| Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) | 20 to 26 years | 2 January 2002 to 1 January 2008 |
The upper age limit for Flying Branch candidates holding a valid and current Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA (India) is relaxable up to 26 years.
3. Marital Status
Candidates must be unmarried at the time of commencement of the course. Marriage is not permitted during training. A candidate who marries during training may be discharged and may be liable to refund the expenditure incurred by the Government.
Educational Qualification
The educational qualification varies according to the branch and sub-branch. Candidates should check the detailed subject-wise eligibility requirements in the official notification before selecting their preferred entry.
A. Flying Branch
Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Mathematics and Physics and fulfil one of the following qualification conditions:
- Graduation with a minimum three-year degree course in any discipline from a recognised university.
- BE/B.Tech degree (four-year course) from a recognised university.
- Cleared Section A and B examinations of the Associate Membership of the Institution of Engineers (India) or Aeronautical Society of India, from a recognised university.
The prescribed minimum marks are 50% each in Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level and 60% in the qualifying graduation/engineering qualification or equivalent.
B. Ground Duty (Technical) Branch
The Technical Branch includes the following sub-branches:
1. Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics) – AE(L)
Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics and fulfil the prescribed engineering or equivalent qualification requirements.
Eligible qualifications include a minimum four-year degree graduation/integrated post-graduation in Engineering or Technology in the notified Electronics, Electrical, Computer, Communication, Instrumentation and related disciplines.
The notification also provides eligibility for specified candidates with M.Sc. Electronics and B.Sc. Physics, and candidates who have cleared the prescribed professional engineering examinations.
2. Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) – AE(M)
Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics and hold a minimum four-year degree graduation/integrated post-graduation qualification in Engineering or Technology in the notified disciplines.
Eligible disciplines include Aerospace, Aeronautical, Mechanical, Aircraft Maintenance, Production, Industrial, Manufacturing, Metallurgical, Materials, Mechatronics and other specified engineering disciplines.
Minimum marks: The prescribed requirement is 50% each in Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level and 60% in the qualifying engineering or equivalent qualification.
C. Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch
1. Weapon Systems (WS) Branch
- Passed 10+2 with Mathematics and Physics.
- Graduation with a minimum three-year degree course in any discipline from a recognised university, or a four-year BE/B.Tech degree from a recognised university.
- The prescribed minimum marks are 50% each in Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 and 60% in the qualifying degree.
2. Administration and Logistics Branch
- Passed 10+2.
- Graduate degree with a minimum three-year course in any discipline from a recognised university.
- Alternatively, candidates who have cleared Section A and B examinations of the Associate Membership of the Institution of Engineers (India) or Aeronautical Society of India may be eligible.
- The prescribed minimum marks in the qualifying degree or equivalent qualification are 60%.
3. Accounts Branch
Candidates must have passed 10+2 and completed graduation in any one of the following eligible streams:
- B.Com degree (minimum three-year course).
- BBA with specialisation in Finance.
- Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS) with specialisation in Finance.
- Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS) with specialisation in Finance.
- Qualified CA, CMA, CS or CFA.
- B.Sc. with specialisation in Finance.
The prescribed minimum marks in the qualifying degree or equivalent qualification are 60%.
4. Education Branch
- Passed 10+2.
- Graduation in any discipline.
- Post-Graduation in any discipline, including eligible integrated courses offering a single PG degree without permission for exit and lateral entry.
- The prescribed minimum marks are 60% in graduation and 50% in post-graduation.
5. Meteorology Branch
Candidates must have passed 10+2 and fulfil the prescribed qualification requirements, which include:
- B.Sc. with Physics and Mathematics; or
- Four-year graduation in Engineering/Technology in the notified disciplines.
The detailed list of eligible engineering disciplines and subject requirements is provided in the official notification.
D. GATE Score Entry – Ground Duty Technical
Candidates applying through GATE Score Entry for AE(L) or AE(M) must:
- Hold a BE/B.Tech degree in the prescribed eligible engineering disciplines.
- Have a valid GATE qualification in one of the notified subjects.
- Have obtained the GATE result within the specified period, with result declaration dates between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2027.
The eligible GATE subjects differ for AE(L) and AE(M). Candidates should check the relevant subject list in the official notification.
E. NCC Special Entry – Flying Branch
Candidates applying through NCC Special Entry must possess an NCC Air Wing Senior Division ‘C’ Certificate.
The certificate must have been acquired within two years preceding the AFCAT registration date, calculated backwards. NCC Special Entry candidates are exempted from the written AFCAT examination and are called directly for AFSB testing, subject to eligibility.
Important: The above is a branch-wise summary. The official notification contains detailed lists of eligible engineering disciplines, degree conditions and other qualification rules. Candidates must verify their exact degree title and marks before applying.
Application Fee
| Entry Type | Examination Fee |
|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry | ₹550 + GST |
| NCC Special Entry | No AFCAT examination fee |
| GATE Score Entry | No AFCAT examination fee |
The AFCAT examination fee is non-refundable. Payment can be made online through the available payment gateway using debit card, credit card or net banking.
Important Dates – IAF AFCAT 01/2027
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Detailed Notification | November 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | 12 November 2026, 11:00 AM |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 11 December 2026, 11:30 PM |
| AFCAT 01/2027 Examination | 31 January 2027 |
| Admit Card | Four days before the examination |
| Courses Commencement | January 2028 |
Selection Process
The selection process for AFCAT 01/2027 includes the following stages:
- AFCAT Online Examination (for AFCAT Entry candidates).
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Testing.
- Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS), where applicable for Flying Branch candidates.
- Medical Examination.
- Final Merit List and Branch Allocation.
GATE Score Entry candidates are assessed through the prescribed GATE-based entry process and subsequent AFSB and medical selection stages. NCC Special Entry candidates are exempted from the AFCAT written examination and proceed directly to AFSB testing, subject to eligibility.
AFSB Testing Stages
Stage I – Screening Test
- Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test.
- Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT).
Candidates who qualify Stage I proceed to Stage II. Those who do not qualify are sent back on the first day.
Stage II – Psychological and Group Testing
- Psychological Tests.
- Group Tests.
- Personal Interview.
- CPSS for eligible Flying Branch candidates.
Candidates recommended by the AFSB are required to undergo the prescribed medical examination.
AFCAT 01/2027 Exam Pattern
The AFCAT online examination will be conducted in English and will consist of objective-type questions.
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| General Awareness | History, Geography, Sports, Current Affairs, Defence, Polity, Economy, Science and Technology |
| Verbal Ability in English | Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary and related topics |
| Numerical Ability | Arithmetic and mathematical aptitude |
| Reasoning and Military Aptitude | Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning |
Examination Structure
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Examination Mode | Online |
| Type of Questions | Objective |
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Maximum Marks | 300 |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Correct Answer | +3 Marks |
| Incorrect Answer | -1 Mark |
| Unattempted Question | 0 Marks |
| Examination Language | English |
AFCAT 01/2027 Examination Schedule
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Candidate Reporting Time | 08:00 AM |
| Last Entry Time | 09:00 AM |
| Verification, Biometric and Seating | 08:00 AM to 09:45 AM |
| Reading of Instructions | 09:45 AM to 10:00 AM |
| AFCAT Examination | 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon |
Candidates will not be permitted to enter the examination centre after the pre-examination verification process commences at 09:00 AM.
Salary and Pay Scale
Candidates commissioned as Flying Officers in the Indian Air Force will receive pay according to the Defence Pay Matrix.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Rank on Commissioning | Flying Officer |
| Pay Level | Level 10 |
| Pay Scale | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 |
| Military Service Pay (MSP) | ₹15,500 |
| Training Stipend | ₹56,100 per month |
In addition to basic pay and MSP, officers may receive applicable allowances depending on their branch, nature of duty and place of posting.
These may include:
- Flying Allowance.
- Transport Allowance.
- Technical Allowance.
- Test Pilot and Flight Test Engineer Allowance.
- Risk and Hardship Allowance.
The applicable allowances and benefits will be governed by the prevailing rules of the Indian Air Force.
Training Details
The courses are scheduled to commence in the first week of January 2028.
| Branch | Approximate Training Duration |
|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 74 Weeks |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | 74 Weeks |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | 50 Weeks |
Training will be conducted at the designated Air Force Training Establishments. Candidates are advised to maintain good physical fitness before joining training.
How to Apply Online for IAF AFCAT 01/2027 Recruitment?
Eligible candidates can submit their applications through the official AFCAT recruitment portal from 12 November 2026.
Follow the steps below:
- Visit the official AFCAT application website: https://afcat.edcil.co.in/
- Open the AFCAT 01/2027 registration or application link.
- Complete the registration process by entering your name, mobile number and email address.
- Verify your mobile number and email address through the OTP received.
- Log in using the User ID and password generated by the system.
- Fill in personal, communication and educational qualification details.
- Select the eligible entry and branch preferences carefully.
- Upload the required photograph, signature and thumb impression in the prescribed format.
- Pay the applicable AFCAT examination fee, if required.
- Review all entered details before final submission.
- Submit the application and save or print the confirmation page for future reference.
Important: Once the application is submitted, changes cannot be made. Candidates should verify all details carefully before final submission.
Documents Required for Online Application
Candidates should keep the following documents and scanned images ready:
- Recent passport-size colour photograph.
- Scanned signature.
- Thumb impression.
- Class 10 certificate or equivalent proof of date of birth.
- Class 12 mark sheet and certificate.
- Graduation mark sheets and degree certificate.
- Post-Graduation documents, wherever applicable.
- Engineering degree and semester-wise marksheets, wherever applicable.
- GATE scorecard for GATE Score Entry candidates.
- NCC Air Wing Senior Division ‘C’ Certificate for NCC Special Entry.
- Valid email ID and mobile number.
- Online payment details, wherever applicable.
Photograph, Signature and Thumb Impression Specifications
| Document | File Size |
|---|---|
| Photograph | 100 KB to 200 KB |
| Signature | 80 KB to 150 KB |
| Thumb Impression | 50 KB to 100 KB |
The notification specifies left thumb impression for male applicants and right thumb impression for female applicants. Candidates should follow the image-format and upload instructions in the application portal.
Important Instructions for Candidates
- Candidates must verify their eligibility before submitting the application.
- The date of birth entered in the application must match the accepted matriculation or equivalent certificate.
- Candidates must select their branch preferences carefully.
- The IAF may allot branches based on eligibility, suitability, merit and availability of vacancies.
- Candidates must meet the prescribed physical and medical standards.
- Admission to the examination and issue of an admit card are provisional and do not confirm final eligibility.
- False information or incorrect documents may lead to cancellation of candidature.
- Candidates should regularly check the official AFCAT website for updates regarding admit cards, examination and AFSB testing.
Important Contact Details
For queries related to the online examination, registration and admit cards:
- AFCAT Cell: +91-9513252077
- Email: [email protected]
For eligibility and selection-process queries, candidates may refer to the contact details given in the official notification.
IAF AFCAT 01/2027 Recruitment 2026 – FAQs
Q1. What is the total number of vacancies in IAF AFCAT 01/2027 Recruitment?
A total of 284 vacancies have been notified under AFCAT Entry and GATE Score Entry for Flying and Ground Duty branches.
Q2. When will the IAF AFCAT 01/2027 online application start?
The online application process starts on 12 November 2026 at 11:00 AM.
Q3. What is the last date to apply for AFCAT 01/2027?
The last date for online application submission is 11 December 2026 at 11:30 PM.
Q4. What is the AFCAT 01/2027 examination date?
The AFCAT online examination is scheduled for 31 January 2027.
Q5. What is the age limit for AFCAT 01/2027 Flying Branch?
Candidates must be between 20 and 24 years as on 1 January 2028. Candidates holding a valid and current DGCA Commercial Pilot Licence may be eligible up to 26 years.
Q6. What is the age limit for Ground Duty branches?
The age limit for Ground Duty Technical and Non-Technical branches is 20 to 26 years as on 1 January 2028.
Q7. What is the application fee for AFCAT 01/2027?
The examination fee for AFCAT Entry is ₹550 plus GST. It is not applicable to NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry candidates.
Q8. What is the salary of an IAF Flying Officer?
The pay scale is ₹56,100 to ₹1,77,500 under Level 10 of the Defence Pay Matrix, along with Military Service Pay of ₹15,500 and applicable allowances.
Q9. Can women apply for AFCAT 01/2027?
Yes. Eligible unmarried women candidates can apply for the notified Flying and Ground Duty branches, subject to the applicable vacancy and eligibility conditions.
Q10. What is the selection process for AFCAT 01/2027?
The selection process includes the AFCAT written examination or applicable GATE/NCC entry route, AFSB testing, medical examination and final merit-based selection.
Q11. When will the courses under AFCAT 01/2027 commence?
The courses are scheduled to commence in January 2028.
Q12. Where can candidates apply for IAF AFCAT 01/2027?
Candidates can apply online through the official AFCAT website at https://afcat.edcil.co.in/.
IAF AFCAT 01/2027 Recruitment 2026 – Important Links
| Apply Online – AFCAT 01/2027 | Click Here |
| Detailed Recruitment Notification PDF | Download PDF |
| AFCAT 01/2027 Recruitment Notice | Click Here |
| Indian Air Force Official Website | Click Here |
| Latest Government Jobs | Click Here |
| Latest Results | Click Here |
| Latest Admit Cards | Click Here |
| Education and University Updates | Click Here |