IAF AFCAT 1 registration 2026: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has extended the last date to apply for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT 1) 2026. Candidates who are yet to complete the registration process can now submit their applications online until December 19, 2025, through the official AFCAT portal at afcat.cdac.in.The AFCAT 1 2026 examination is scheduled to be conducted on January 31, 2026, at 104 examination centres across India. Through this recruitment drive, the Indian Air Force aims to fill 340 vacancies across various branches.
What is AFCAT 01/2026?
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is the primary gateway for recruiting young officers into the Indian Air Force. The 01/2026 cycle allows entry into:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty – Technical
- Ground Duty – Non-Technical
Selected candidates become Group “A” Gazetted Officers, taking on leadership roles and responsibilities.
AFCAT 01/2026: Eligibility criteria
Applicants must fulfill the following eligibility criteria in order to be eligible for AFCAT-I 2026.Nationality: Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply.Age Limit:
- Flying Branch: Candidates must be between 20 and 24 years of age.
- Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical): Maximum age limit is 26 years.
Educational Qualification:
- Flying Branch: Must hold a graduation degree and have secured at least 50% marks in Mathematics and Physics at the 10+2 level.
- Ground Duty (Technical): Candidates should possess a relevant Engineering degree.
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Graduation in any discipline is acceptable.
Other Requirements: Candidates must meet medical and physical fitness standards as prescribed by the IAF and comply with regulations regarding tattoos and overall health.
Documents required
Before beginning the application process, candidates are advised to keep the following details and documents ready:
- Class 10 and Class 12 certificates and academic details
- A valid email ID and mobile number
- Aadhaar card details
- Application fee and exam city preference
Applicants are required to pay an application fee of Rs 550 plus applicable GST. During the registration process, candidates can choose up to five preferred examination cities from the list provided by the conducting authority.
AFCAT 2026 : Steps to apply
The online registration process for AFCAT 01/2026 is underway. Interested and eligible candidates can apply by following the steps below:
- Visit the official portal: afcat.cdac.in or afcat.edcil.co.in
- Register with personal details
- Upload photograph, signature, and documents as per specifications
- Pay the application fee online
- Review the form and submit
- Download confirmation and save for reference
Direct link to apply here. Note: Since the registration window opens on November 17, candidates are advised to complete the application process early to avoid last-minute rush or technical issues.
