Are you aiming to serve in the Indian Air Force (IAF) as an Officer? The IAF AFCAT 01/2026 ONLINE FORM 2025 notification has brought exciting news for aspirants. With applications now live and deadlines extended, this recruitment offers a golden opportunity for eligible candidates to join the Flying and Ground Duty branches. The latest updates cover application dates, eligibility, vacancies, selection process, and key deadlines you must know.
Why AFCAT Matters

The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is a national-level exam conducted by the Indian Air Force to recruit officers into various branches including Flying and Ground Duty. This gateway opens the door to a thrilling career filled with adventure, honor, and excellent pay scales while serving the nation.
Branches Covered in AFCAT
Flying Branch
Ground Duty (Technical)
Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
NCC Special Entry (Flying)
Latest Notification Highlights for AFCAT 01/2026
The AFCAT 01/2026 notification has been officially released by the Indian Air Force. The online application form for this cycle opened on November 17, 2025 and the deadline has been extended to December 19, 2025. The exam itself is scheduled to be held on January 31, 2026.
Important Dates for AFCAT 01/2026 Online Form 2025
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release | November 2025 |
| Online Form Start | November 17, 2025 |
| Last Date for Application | December 19, 2025 (extended) |
| Exam Date | January 31, 2026 |
Vacancies and Branches Available
A total of 340 positions have been announced across the Flying and Ground Duty branches for the AFCAT 01/2026 cycle. These vacancies include roles in both technical and non-technical wings of the IAF.
Eligibility Criteria for AFCAT 01/2026
Age Limit
Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years
Ground Duty Branch: 20 to 26 years
(Age as on January 1, 2027)
Educational Qualifications
Flying Branch: Bachelor’s degree with Physics & Maths at 12th level or B.E/B.Tech with required scores.
Ground Duty (Technical): Engineering qualification in relevant field.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Bachelor’s degree in relevant discipline.
Physical Standards
Height and fitness requirements also apply — check detailed notification before applying.
Application Fee & Documents Required
Application fee for AFCAT entry is ₹550 (all categories), with some special entry options being free. Make sure to have necessary documents like identity proof, educational certificates, and a recent photograph ready before applying.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Online
Follow these simple steps to submit your IAF AFCAT 01/2026 ONLINE FORM 2025:
Visit the official AFCAT portal: afcat.edcil.co.in or afcat.cdac.in
Register with your email and mobile number
Fill in personal, educational, and preference details
Upload scanned documents
Pay the application fee online
Review and submit your form
Download confirmation for future reference
Selection Process Explained
Selection in AFCAT involves:
Written Examination
AFSB Interview
Medical Examination
Clearing each stage is mandatory to earn a chance to train and commission as an IAF officer.
Conclusion
The IAF AFCAT 01/2026 ONLINE FORM 2025 is one of the most awaited defense recruitment drives in India. With the application window now extended and positions plentiful across various branches, eligible aspirants should act fast and apply before the final deadline. Stay updated with official sources and prepare diligently for the selection stages. Best of luck for your AFCAT journey!
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