The Indian Air Force (IAF) has released the AFCAT 01/2027 Notification for the recruitment of Commissioned Officers in the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. The recruitment also includes NCC Special Entry for the Flying Branch and GATE Score Entry for Ground Duty (Technical) branches. The courses are scheduled to commence in January 2028 at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, Hyderabad.
The online application process for AFCAT 01/2027 will start on 12 November 2026 at 11:00 AM. Eligible Indian male and female candidates will be able to submit their application forms through the official AFCAT website. The last date to apply online is 11 December 2026 at 11:30 PM.
Candidates interested in joining the Indian Air Force as officers should check the branch-wise eligibility, age limit, application fee, selection process and other important details before applying.
AFCAT 01/2027 Notification 2026 – Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Ministry | Ministry of Defence, Government of India |
| Examination Name | Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 01/2027 |
| Recruitment Type | Commissioned Officer |
| Advertisement Reference | CBC 10801/11/0018/2627 |
| Branches | Flying, Ground Duty Technical and Non-Technical |
| Other Entries | NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry |
| Course Commencement | January 2028 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Start Date | 12 November 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 11 December 2026 |
| Application Fee | ₹550 + GST for AFCAT Entry |
| Vacancy | To be announced in detailed notification |
| Official Website | afcat.edcil.co.in |
AFCAT 01/2027 Notification Released
The Indian Air Force has announced the AFCAT 01/2027 recruitment cycle for candidates interested in becoming Commissioned Officers.
The recruitment covers the following branches:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical) Branch
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch
Apart from the regular AFCAT entry, eligible candidates can also apply through NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry, subject to the specific eligibility conditions.
The recruitment includes opportunities for Permanent Commission (PC) and Short Service Commission (SSC), depending on the branch and entry.
The detailed notification containing the final vacancy distribution, educational qualifications and other eligibility conditions should be checked before submitting the application.
AFCAT 01/2027 Vacancy 2026 – Branch-Wise Details
The exact branch-wise vacancy numbers have not yet been confirmed in the detailed notification available for this recruitment cycle. Candidates should not rely on unofficial vacancy figures until the Indian Air Force publishes the final vacancy table.
The recruitment is expected to cover the following entries:
| Entry | Branch | Course Number |
|---|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry | Flying | 223/28F/SSC/M&W |
| AFCAT Entry | Ground Duty (Technical) | 222/28T/PC/112AEC/M&W |
| AFCAT Entry | Ground Duty (Technical) | 222/28T/SSC/112AEC/M&W |
| AFCAT Entry | Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | 222/28G/SSC/M&W |
| AFCAT Entry | Ground Duty (Non-Technical – Weapon Systems) | 222/28G/PC/M&W and 222/28G/SSC/M&W |
| NCC Special Entry | Flying | 223/28F/PC/M and 223/28F/SSC/M&W |
| GATE Score Entry | Ground Duty (Technical) | 222/28T/PC/112AEC/M&W and 222/28T/SSC/112AEC/M&W |
Important: The above table shows the announced entry and course references, not the number of vacancies. The detailed notification should be consulted for the confirmed vacancy distribution.
AFCAT 01/2027 Important Dates
Candidates should keep the following dates in mind before applying:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| AFCAT 01/2027 Notification | 2 November 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | 12 November 2026, 11:00 AM |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 11 December 2026, 11:30 PM |
| AFCAT Written Examination | To be announced |
| Admit Card Release | To be announced |
| Course Commencement | First week of January 2028 |
AFCAT 01/2027 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must fulfil the age, educational, physical and medical requirements prescribed by the Indian Air Force.
The age details announced for AFCAT 01/2027 are given below. The detailed notification should be checked for the final branch-wise educational and other eligibility requirements.
AFCAT 01/2027 Age Limit
The age will be calculated as on 1 January 2028.
| Branch | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 20 Years | 24 Years |
| Flying Branch – Valid DGCA CPL Holders | 20 Years | 26 Years |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | 20 Years | 26 Years |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | 20 Years | 26 Years |
Date of Birth Criteria
| Branch | Date of Birth |
|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 2 January 2004 to 1 January 2008 |
| Flying Branch – Eligible CPL Holders | 2 January 2002 to 1 January 2008 |
| Ground Duty Branches | 2 January 2002 to 1 January 2008 |
Both the start and end dates are inclusive, subject to the official eligibility rules.
AFCAT 01/2027 Educational Qualification
The exact educational qualification and subject-wise requirements must be confirmed from the detailed AFCAT 01/2027 notification.
The following are the usual qualification requirements from previous AFCAT recruitment cycles. They are provided as preliminary guidance and should not be treated as a substitute for the 01/2027 notification.
| Branch | Usual Educational Qualification |
|---|---|
| Flying Branch | Graduation with the prescribed percentage, or BE/B.Tech, along with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level as required |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics and a relevant four-year engineering degree or equivalent qualification |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | Graduation or postgraduate qualification in the relevant subject, depending on the branch |
AFCAT 01/2027 Application Fee
Candidates applying through AFCAT Entry are required to pay the examination fee. NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry candidates are exempt from this fee.
| Entry | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry | ₹550 + GST |
| NCC Special Entry | Nil |
| GATE Score Entry | Nil |
The AFCAT examination fee is non-refundable. Payment is to be made through the online payment facility available on the official application portal.
AFCAT 01/2027 Salary and Pay Scale
Candidates selected as Commissioned Officers in the Indian Air Force receive salary and allowances according to the applicable 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 per month |
| Training Stipend | ₹56,100 per month |
Officers may also receive applicable allowances depending on their branch, duties and posting. These can include flying allowance, technical allowance, transport allowance and other admissible benefits.
The actual salary will depend on the applicable service rules, allowances and deductions.
AFCAT 01/2027 Selection Process
The selection process depends on the entry through which a candidate applies.
1. AFCAT Online Examination
Candidates applying through AFCAT Entry must appear for the online AFCAT examination. Ground Duty Technical candidates are also required to take the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT), as applicable under the notified selection scheme.
2. Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Testing
Candidates who qualify for the next stage are called for AFSB testing. This stage generally includes:
- Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test
- Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT)
- Psychological Tests
- Group Tasks
- Personal Interview
3. Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS)
Flying Branch candidates are required to undergo the applicable pilot aptitude assessment, including CPSS, as prescribed by the Indian Air Force.
4. Medical Examination
Candidates recommended by the AFSB must satisfy the prescribed medical and physical standards.
5. Final Merit List
The final merit list is prepared according to the applicable selection criteria, performance and medical fitness requirements.
NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry: Candidates applying through these entries are subject to their respective selection procedures. They are not required to appear for the regular AFCAT written examination where the notified entry rules provide direct AFSB consideration.
AFCAT 01/2027 Exam Pattern
The detailed examination scheme for AFCAT 01/2027 should be checked in the full notification. The following is the usual examination pattern followed in previous AFCAT cycles.
AFCAT Written Examination
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| General Awareness | Included |
| Verbal Ability in English | Included |
| Numerical Ability | Included |
| Reasoning and Military Aptitude | Included |
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Total Marks | 300 |
| Examination Duration | 2 Hours |
Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT)
The EKT is applicable to candidates applying for the Ground Duty Technical branch under the relevant AFCAT entry.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 50 |
| Total Marks | 150 |
| Duration | 45 Minutes |
| Subjects | Relevant engineering disciplines |
The above pattern is based on previous AFCAT examination cycles. Candidates should verify the final pattern and marking scheme in the detailed AFCAT 01/2027 notification.
Permanent Commission and Short Service Commission
The Indian Air Force offers different types of commission depending on the branch and entry.
| Commission Type | Branch | General Tenure |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent Commission (PC) | Eligible Ground Duty Branches | Till the applicable age of superannuation |
| Short Service Commission (SSC) | Flying Branch | 14 Years |
| Short Service Commission (SSC) | Ground Duty Branches | 10 Years, extendable by 4 Years |
The availability of PC and SSC depends on the course, branch, gender and entry conditions mentioned in the official notification.
How to Apply Online for AFCAT 01/2027?
Eligible candidates will be able to apply online through the official AFCAT website from 12 November 2026.
Follow these steps to complete the application process:
- Visit the official website: https://afcat.edcil.co.in/
- Open the AFCAT 01/2027 application link.
- Select the appropriate entry: AFCAT Entry, NCC Special Entry or GATE Score Entry.
- Complete the registration using the required details.
- Log in to the application portal.
- Enter personal information, educational qualifications and other required details.
- Select the applicable branch and entry.
- Upload the photograph, signature and other required documents in the prescribed format.
- Pay the application fee, if applicable.
- Review the complete application form carefully.
- Submit the application before the closing date.
- Download and print the submitted application form for future reference.
Candidates eligible for more than one entry should follow the separate registration instructions given on the official portal.
Documents Required for AFCAT 01/2027 Application
Candidates should keep the following documents and information ready before filling out the online application:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Scanned signature
- Aadhaar details, as required by the registration process
- Class 10 certificate
- Class 12 marksheet and certificate
- Graduation or engineering degree certificates
- Semester-wise marksheets
- Valid email address
- Active mobile number
- Category or other applicable certificates, if required
- NCC certificate, for eligible NCC Special Entry candidates
- Valid DGCA Commercial Pilot Licence, where applicable
- GATE score details, for eligible GATE Score Entry candidates
- Online payment details, if applicable
The final document requirements, file size and upload format should be checked on the official application portal.
Important Instructions for AFCAT 01/2027 Candidates
- Candidates should carefully check their eligibility before submitting the application.
- The age calculation date is 1 January 2028.
- Candidates must satisfy the prescribed medical and physical standards.
- The marital status requirements applicable to the course must be followed.
- Candidates should enter their date of birth and educational details correctly.
- Keep the registered mobile number and email address active throughout the recruitment process.
- Candidates should not wait until the last date to submit their application.
- Read the detailed notification before selecting an entry or branch.
AFCAT 01/2027 Notification – Important Links
| Link Description | Direct Link |
|---|---|
| AFCAT Official Website | Visit Official Website |
| AFCAT 01/2027 Notification | Check Notification Updates |
| AFCAT 01/2027 Short Notice | Check Short Notice |
| Apply Online | Apply from 12 November 2026 |
| AFCAT Registration / Candidate Login | Open AFCAT Portal |
| AFCAT Exam Updates | Check Latest Updates |
| AFCAT Admit Card 2027 | Check Admit Card Updates |
| Indian Air Force Official Website | Visit IAF Website |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is AFCAT 01/2027 Notification released?
Yes. The Indian Air Force has announced AFCAT 01/2027 recruitment for Flying and Ground Duty branches, along with NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry.
Q2. When will AFCAT 01/2027 online applications start?
The online application process will start on 12 November 2026 at 11:00 AM.
Q3. What is the last date to apply for AFCAT 01/2027?
The last date to submit the online application is 11 December 2026 at 11:30 PM.
Q4. Which organization conducts AFCAT 01/2027?
The examination and recruitment process are conducted by the Indian Air Force.
Q5. What is the course commencement date for AFCAT 01/2027?
The courses are scheduled to commence in the first week of January 2028.
Q6. Which branches are included in AFCAT 01/2027?
The recruitment includes Flying Branch, Ground Duty Technical and Ground Duty Non-Technical branches.
Q7. Can female candidates apply for AFCAT 01/2027?
Yes. Eligible Indian male and female candidates can apply, subject to the branch-wise and entry-wise eligibility conditions.
Q8. What is the age limit for AFCAT Flying Branch?
The age limit is 20 to 24 years as on 1 January 2028. Eligible candidates holding a valid DGCA Commercial Pilot Licence may apply up to 26 years, subject to the prescribed conditions.
Q9. 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.
Q10. What is the AFCAT 01/2027 application fee?
Candidates applying through AFCAT Entry must pay ₹550 plus GST. NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry candidates are exempt from the examination fee.
Q11. How many vacancies are available in AFCAT 01/2027?
The confirmed branch-wise vacancy details are to be checked in the detailed notification. Candidates should not rely on unverified vacancy figures.
Q12. What is the salary of an AFCAT Flying Officer?
The Flying Officer pay scale is Level 10, ₹56,100 to ₹1,77,500, along with Military Service Pay of ₹15,500 and applicable allowances.
Q13. What is the training stipend for AFCAT candidates?
Flight Cadets receive a monthly training stipend of ₹56,100, according to the notified pay details.
Q14. What is NCC Special Entry in AFCAT?
NCC Special Entry is an entry for eligible NCC Air Wing Senior Division ‘C’ Certificate holders for the Flying Branch, subject to the applicable eligibility conditions.
Q15. What is GATE Score Entry in AFCAT?
GATE Score Entry is an entry for eligible candidates seeking Ground Duty Technical opportunities through the prescribed GATE-based selection route.
Q16. Do NCC Special Entry candidates need to appear for the AFCAT written examination?
Candidates applying through NCC Special Entry are considered under the separate entry procedure and are not required to take the regular AFCAT written examination, subject to the official rules.
Q17. Is EKT applicable to all AFCAT candidates?
No. EKT is associated with the Ground Duty Technical entry under the applicable examination scheme.
Q18. What is the selection process for AFCAT 01/2027?
The selection process generally includes the AFCAT examination, AFSB testing, CPSS for eligible Flying Branch candidates, medical examination and final merit preparation.
Q19. Where can I apply for AFCAT 01/2027?
Candidates can submit their application through the official website at https://afcat.edcil.co.in/.
Q20. When will the AFCAT 01/2027 examination be conducted?
The examination date has not yet been confirmed. Candidates should check the official AFCAT portal for the examination schedule.
Q21. When will the AFCAT 01/2027 admit card be released?
The admit card release date has not yet been announced. Updates will be published on the official AFCAT website.
Q22. Can married candidates apply for AFCAT 01/2027?
Candidates must satisfy the marital status conditions prescribed for the course. The applicable rules generally require candidates to be unmarried at the commencement of training. Check the detailed notification for the exact conditions.
Q23. Where can I download the AFCAT 01/2027 notification PDF?
Candidates can visit the official AFCAT website and open the notification section to check the short notice and detailed notification.
Q24. What is the official website for AFCAT 01/2027?
The official application portal is https://afcat.edcil.co.in/.