The registration window for AFCAT One 2026 has officially opened, inviting eligible candidates to apply for one of the most competitive officer-level entry exams conducted by the Indian Air Force. The application process is now live on the designated portal and will remain open until December 14, 2025.
Every year, thousands of aspirants prepare for this exam because it offers permanent and short-service commissions in Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical), and other prestigious roles. With the exam scheduled for January 31, 2026, aspirants must understand the eligibility rules, exam pattern, fees, and complete application process in detail.
What Is AFCAT One 2026 and Why Is It Conducted?
AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) is a national-level examination conducted twice a year to recruit officers for various branches of the Indian Air Force. The purpose of AFCAT One 2026 is to induct candidates for the January 2027 training course at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal. AFCAT is known for its transparent selection process, well-structured exam pattern, and equal opportunity for men and women across different branches. Candidates who clear all stages written test, AFSB interview, and medical examination join one of the most prestigious military institutions in the country.
Key Highlights of AFCAT 1 2026
- Training course begins: January 2027
- Exam date: January 31, 2026
- Admit card release: January 22, 2026
- Application deadline: December 14, 2025
- Mode of exam: Online (Computer-Based Test)
What Are the Eligibility Criteria for AFCAT One 2026?
The eligibility criteria differ depending on the branch a candidate wishes to apply for. Before filling out the application form, aspirants must ensure they meet the required age, education, and nationality criteria to avoid rejection later. Below are the detailed eligibility requirements for each branch. Read each point carefully because the Indian Air Force does not relax rules for oversight or incomplete documentation.
General Requirements
- Candidates must be Indian citizens.
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets are mandatory.
- A valid email ID, mobile number, and Aadhaar card are required.
Age Limit Criteria
| Branch | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 20 years | 24 years |
| Ground Duty (Tech & Non-Tech) | 20 years | 26 years |
Educational Qualifications
Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
- Minimum 60% marks in Physics and Mathematics at 10+2.
- A 4-year graduation or integrated post-graduation degree in Engineering/Technology from a recognized university.
Flying Branch
- Graduation in any discipline (minimum 3 years) with 60% marks.
- Must have Physics and Mathematics at 10+2.
- BE/B.Tech candidates must have 60% marks.
Technical Branch
- A 4-year engineering degree in the required specialization.
- OR candidates must have cleared Sections A & B of the Associate Membership of Institution of Engineers (India) / Aeronautical Society of India with 60% marks.
How Much Is the AFCAT One 2026 Application Fee?
The application fee for AFCAT One 2026 is ₹550 plus applicable GST charges. The payment must be made online, and only after successful payment is the application considered complete.
Candidates can select up to five exam centres from over 100 Indian cities based on preference. The centre allotted will depend on availability at the time of scheduling.
Important Fee Details
- Payment mode: Online (net banking, card, UPI)
- Fee: ₹550 + GST
- Refund: Not applicable
How Can Candidates Apply for AFCAT One 2026?
The application process is simple but requires accuracy. Aspirants must keep all documents ready before starting to avoid errors or delays. Below is the step-by-step guide to completing the AFCAT One 2026 registration successfully.
Step-By-Step Registration Process
- Visit the official AFCAT portal at "afcat.edcil.co.in"
- Click on the “AFCAT 1 2026” registration link.
- Create a new login ID using email and mobile number.
- Fill out the application with personal, educational, and communication details.
- Upload your photo, signature, and required documents.
- Pay the application fee and submit the form.
- Download the confirmation page for future use.
Documents Required
- Class 10 & 12 certificates
- Graduation certificate/marksheets
- Recent passport-size photo
- Scanned signature
- Valid ID (Aadhaar mandatory)
What Is the Exam Pattern for AFCAT One 2026?
The AFCAT exam pattern remains similar to previous years. Candidates must understand the marking scheme and section-wise weightage to prepare strategically.
Below is the detailed exam structure:
AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 25 | 75 |
| Verbal Ability (English) | 25 | 75 |
| Numerical Ability | 18 | 54 |
| Reasoning & Military Aptitude | 32 | 96 |
| Total | 100 | 300 |
Important Features
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marking Scheme:
- +3 for correct answer
- –1 for incorrect answer
- Mode: Computer-Based Test
- Stages of selection:
- Written exam
- AFSB interview
- Medical examination
Candidates who clear all three stages will be shortlisted for final officer training at the Air Force Academy.
What Happens After Clearing AFCAT One 2026?
Those who successfully clear the written exam, interview, and medical tests will receive a call letter for training at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal (Hyderabad). The training program is rigorous and designed to build discipline, leadership, and professionalism among future officers.
Successful candidates take up roles in:
- Flying Branch
- Technical Ground Duty
- Non-Technical Ground Duty
A career in the Air Force offers job security, honor, adventure, and respect, making AFCAT one of the most aspirational exams in India.
FAQS About AFCAT One 2026 Registration & Eligibility
What is the purpose of AFCAT One 2026?
AFCAT One 2026 is conducted to recruit officers for the January 2027 course in various branches of the Indian Air Force.
What is the last date to apply for AFCAT One 2026?
The final date to submit the online application form is December 14, 2025.
When will the AFCAT One 2026 exam be held?
The AFCAT One exam is scheduled for January 31, 2026.
What is the age limit for the Flying Branch under AFCAT One 2026?
The allowed age range for the Flying Branch is 20 to 24 years.
What is the age limit for Ground Duty Technical and Non-Technical branches?
The age requirement for Ground Duty roles ranges from 20 to 26 years.
What educational qualifications are needed for the Flying Branch?
Candidates must have 60% marks in graduation and must have studied Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level.
How much is the application fee for AFCAT One 2026?
The application fee is ₹550 plus GST, payable online during registration.
How many exam centers can a candidate choose during application?
Applicants can select up to five preferred exam cities from the available list.
What is the structure of the AFCAT One 2026 written exam?
The exam consists of 100 questions for 300 marks covering English, General Awareness, Reasoning, and Numerical Ability.
When will the AFCAT One 2026 admit card be available for download?
Admit cards will be released on January 22, 2026.