AFCAT 01/2027 Notification Out: Apply Online for 284 Vacancies, Eligibility, Exam Date & Selection Process

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has released the AFCAT 01/2027 Notification for the recruitment of eligible male and female candidates as Group 'A' Gazetted Officers in the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. Interested candidates can apply online through the official AFCAT recruitment portal. Under the AFCAT 01/2027 recruitment drive, the Indian Air Force is inviting applications for courses commencing in January 2028. The recruitment process includes AFCAT Entry, NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry for eligible candidates. A total of 284 vacancies have been indicated under the AFCAT and GATE Score entries, including Flying, Ground Duty Technical and Ground Duty Non-Technical branches. NCC Special Entry vacancies are allocated separately according to the prescribed percentage.

The online application process started on 12 November 2026 and eligible candidates can submit their applications up to 11 December 2026. The AFCAT 01/2027 written examination is scheduled for 31 January 2027. Candidates interested in joining the Indian Air Force as commissioned officers should carefully check the educational qualification, age limit, branch-wise vacancies, application fee, medical standards and selection procedure before submitting their application.

In this article, you will find complete information about AFCAT 01/2027 Notification, including important dates, vacancy details, eligibility criteria, examination pattern, syllabus, salary, application procedure and important links.

AFCAT 01/2027 Recruitment Overview

The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is conducted by the Indian Air Force to select eligible candidates for commissioned officer positions in various branches. It provides an opportunity for graduates and engineering candidates to build a career in the Indian Air Force.

Candidates can apply for different branches depending on their educational qualifications and eligibility.

Important Dates for AFCAT 01/2027

Candidates should keep track of all important dates related to the AFCAT 01/2027 recruitment process. Missing the application deadline or examination schedule may result in disqualification from the recruitment process.

Application Timing:

• Application Start: 12 November 2026 at 11:00 AM.

• Application Closing: 11 December 2026 at 11:30 PM.

Candidates are advised to complete their online applications well before the closing date to avoid technical problems during the final hours.

AFCAT 01/2027 Vacancy Details

The Indian Air Force has announced 284 tentative vacancies under AFCAT Entry and GATE Score Entry for the January 2028 course. These vacancies are distributed among Flying, Ground Duty Technical and Ground Duty Non-Technical branches. The recruitment also includes NCC Special Entry for eligible NCC Air Wing certificate holders.

Branch-Wise Vacancy Distribution

The vacancy distribution is tentative and may change according to the organizational requirements of the Indian Air Force.

Detailed Vacancy Distribution

1. Flying Branch

2. Ground Duty Technical Branch

Ground Duty Technical recruitment is divided into two engineering sub-branches:

• Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics) – AE(L)

• Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) – AE(M)

Total Ground Duty Technical vacancies through AFCAT Entry: 124.

3. Ground Duty Non-Technical Branch

Total Ground Duty Non-Technical vacancies: 108.

Two seats are reserved from the Ground Duty Non-Technical vacancies for eligible Law graduates.

4. GATE Score Entry

The Indian Air Force has also provided a separate entry route for eligible engineering candidates possessing a valid GATE score.

Total GATE Score Entry vacancies: 16.

Note: NCC Special Entry is available for eligible candidates holding an NCC Air Wing Senior Division 'C' certificate. Its vacancies are allocated as per the percentage prescribed in the official notification and are not an additional fixed number included in the above 284 vacancies.

Types of Commission in AFCAT 01/2027

The Indian Air Force offers two types of commissions for candidates selected through AFCAT recruitment.

1. Permanent Commission (PC)

Permanent Commission allows candidates to serve in the Indian Air Force until the age of superannuation applicable to their rank.

For AFCAT 01/2027, Permanent Commission vacancies are available in the Ground Duty branches as specified in the notification.

2. Short Service Commission (SSC)

Short Service Commission allows candidates to serve in the Indian Air Force for a specified period. The engagement period is different for Flying and Ground Duty branches.

Ground Duty SSC officers may receive an extension of up to four years, subject to service requirements, availability of vacancies, suitability, willingness and merit. Permanent Commission may also be considered later for eligible SSC officers according to the prevailing policies and organizational requirements.

Important: SSC officers are not entitled to a pension under the terms specified in the notification.

AFCAT 01/2027 Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must fulfil the eligibility conditions prescribed by the Indian Air Force before applying. The eligibility requirements include nationality, age limit, educational qualification, marital status and physical and medical fitness.

1. Nationality

Candidates must be Indian citizens as defined under the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955. Both male and female candidates can apply for the eligible branches.

2. AFCAT 01/2027 Age Limit

The age limit is different for Flying Branch and Ground Duty branches. The age will be calculated as on 01 January 2028.

Date of Birth Criteria

For Flying Branch:

• Minimum age: 20 years.

• Maximum age: 24 years.

• Date of Birth: 02 January 2004 to 01 January 2008.

For Flying Branch candidates holding a valid and current Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA (India):

• Maximum age: 26 years.

• Date of Birth: 02 January 2002 to 01 January 2008.

For Ground Duty Technical and Non-Technical branches:

• Minimum age: 20 years.

• Maximum age: 26 years.

• Date of Birth: 02 January 2002 to 01 January 2008.

All DOB ranges are inclusive.

3. Educational Qualification

The educational qualification varies according to the branch and sub-branch selected by the candidate. Candidates should carefully check the prescribed qualification before selecting their preferred entry.

A. Flying Branch

Candidates applying for the Flying Branch must fulfil the following educational requirements:

1. Passed Mathematics and Physics at the 10+2 level.

2. Graduation with a minimum three-year degree course in any discipline from a recognized university.

OR

3. BE/B.Tech degree of a four-year duration from a recognized university.

OR

4. Cleared Section A and B examinations of the Associate Membership of the Institution of Engineers (India) or Aeronautical Society of India, as prescribed in the notification.

B. Ground Duty Technical Branch

Ground Duty Technical recruitment is divided into AE(L) and AE(M).

Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics) – AE(L)

Candidates must have passed Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level.

They should also possess one of the following qualifications:

• MSc Electronics with BSc in Physics.

• A minimum four-year engineering or technology degree.

• Integrated postgraduate engineering or technology qualification of the prescribed duration.

• Eligible professional examination qualifications mentioned in the notification.

The degree must be in one of the prescribed disciplines, including relevant areas of:

• Computer Science and Engineering

• Information Technology

• Artificial Intelligence and Data Science

• Electronics Engineering

• Electronics and Communication Engineering

• Electrical Engineering

• Instrumentation Engineering

• Computer Engineering

• Robotics and Automation

Candidates should check the complete list of eligible disciplines in the official notification.

Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) – AE(M)

Candidates must have passed Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level.

They must also possess a minimum four-year engineering or technology degree or an eligible professional qualification in the prescribed disciplines.

Some eligible areas include:

• Aerospace Engineering

• Aeronautical Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Automobile Engineering

• Production Engineering

• Industrial Engineering

• Mechatronics Engineering

• Manufacturing Engineering

• Metallurgical and Materials Engineering

The exact degree nomenclature and discipline requirements must match the official notification.

C. GATE Score Entry – Ground Duty Technical

Candidates applying through GATE Score Entry must possess a BE/B.Tech degree in one of the prescribed engineering disciplines and a valid GATE qualification obtained within the specified period.

Eligible GATE subjects include:

For AE(M):

• Aerospace Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Production and Industrial Engineering

• Engineering Sciences, subject to prescribed optional subjects

• Metallurgical Engineering

For AE(L):

• Computer Science and Information Technology

• Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

• Electronics and Communication Engineering

• Electrical Engineering

• Instrumentation Engineering

The GATE result must fall within the period specified in the notification, from 01 January 2024 to 31 December 2027.

D. Ground Duty Non-Technical Branch

The educational qualification depends on the selected sub-branch.

Two seats are reserved for eligible Law graduates in Ground Duty Non-Technical branches. Candidates must possess the prescribed three-year professional LLB after graduation or five-year professional LLB after 10+2.

4. Final-Year Students

Candidates studying in the final year or final semester of their qualifying degree may also apply, provided they have no current backlog at the time of application. They must submit proof of completion of their final examinations by 30 November 2027.

Candidates should carefully check the official notification for the documentation requirements and deadline.

5. Marital Status

Candidates must be unmarried at the time of commencement of the course.

Marriage is not permitted during training. If a candidate marries during the training period, they may be discharged and become liable to refund the expenditure incurred by the Government.

AFCAT 01/2027 Application Fee

Candidates applying through AFCAT Entry are required to pay the prescribed examination fee.

The application fee for AFCAT Entry is non-refundable.

Candidates can pay the fee through the available online payment gateway using supported payment methods, including debit cards, credit cards and net banking. NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry candidates are exempted from the examination fee.

AFCAT 01/2027 Selection Process

The selection process for AFCAT 01/2027 is designed to evaluate candidates' academic knowledge, intelligence, personality, leadership qualities and medical fitness.

The selection process generally includes the following stages:

Stage 1: AFCAT Online Written Examination

Candidates applying through AFCAT Entry must appear for the online computer-based examination. The examination tests candidates in English, General Awareness, Numerical Ability and Reasoning and Military Aptitude.

Candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks prescribed by the Indian Air Force.

Stage 2: Air Force Selection Board (AFSB)

Candidates who qualify in the written examination are shortlisted for the AFSB testing process. NCC Special Entry candidates are exempted from the written AFCAT examination and are directly called for AFSB testing, subject to eligibility.

Eligible GATE Score Entry candidates are shortlisted based on their GATE scores and are also called directly for AFSB testing.

The AFSB selection process includes:

Stage I – Screening Test

• Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test

• Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PP&DT)

Candidates who qualify Stage I proceed to the next stage.

Stage II – Psychological and Personality Assessment

• Psychological Tests

• Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks

• Personal Interview

• Other prescribed assessments

The AFSB testing process is conducted over multiple days.

Stage 3: Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS)

Candidates recommended for the Flying Branch are required to undergo the Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS), as applicable. CPSS assesses the aptitude required for flying duties.

This test is conducted only once in a candidate's lifetime. Candidates who have previously failed CPSS are not eligible to apply for the Flying Branch.

Stage 4: Medical Examination

Candidates recommended by the AFSB must undergo a detailed medical examination at the designated medical establishment.

The medical assessment checks whether candidates satisfy the physical and medical standards prescribed by the Indian Air Force.

Stage 5: Final Merit List

The final merit list is prepared based on the marks obtained in the written examination and AFSB testing, subject to the minimum qualifying marks and other eligibility conditions.

Final selection and branch allotment depend on:

• Overall merit position

• Available vacancies

• Medical fitness

• Candidate preferences

• Eligibility for the selected branch

Candidates should note that merely qualifying in the written examination or receiving an AFSB call letter does not guarantee final selection.

AFCAT 01/2027 Exam Pattern

Understanding the examination pattern is important for candidates preparing for AFCAT 2027. The online examination consists of objective-type multiple-choice questions and is conducted in English.

Subject-Wise Examination Details

The AFCAT examination covers four major subjects:

1. General Awareness

2. Verbal Ability in English

3. Numerical Ability

4. Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test

The examination evaluates general knowledge, communication skills, mathematical ability, logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Important: The Indian Air Force has the discretion to determine the qualifying marks in the examination. Candidates should not assume a fixed qualifying score for every recruitment cycle.

AFCAT 01/2027 Syllabus

Candidates should prepare according to the official syllabus to improve their performance in the written examination. The Numerical Ability section is based on the Matriculation level, while the other subjects are generally based on the graduation level.

1. English

The English section evaluates vocabulary, grammar, comprehension and language skills.

Important topics include:

• Comprehension

• Error Detection

• Sentence Completion

• Synonyms and Antonyms

• Cloze Test

• Idioms and Phrases

• Analogy

• Sentence Rearrangement

• One Word Substitution

• Sentence Transformation

• Homonyms

2. General Awareness

This section tests candidates' knowledge of national and international events and general studies.

Important topics include:

• Indian History

• Geography

• Indian Polity

• Indian Economy

• Sports

• Art and Culture

• National and International Organisations

• Important Personalities

• Environment and Ecology

• Basic Science

• Science and Technology

• Current Affairs

• Defence-related Awareness

3. Numerical Ability

Candidates should focus on mathematical concepts and calculation-based questions.

Important topics include:

• Number System

• Decimal and Fractions

• HCF and LCM

• Percentage

• Average

• Ratio and Proportion

• Profit and Loss

• Simple and Compound Interest

• Time and Work

• Time, Speed and Distance

• Trains, Boats and Streams

• Mixture and Allegation

• Mensuration

• Area and Perimeter

• Probability

• Number Series

• Square and Cube Roots

• Heights and Distance

• Statistics

• Exponents and Powers

4. Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test

This section evaluates candidates' logical thinking and reasoning abilities.

Important topics include:

• Verbal Reasoning

• Non-Verbal Reasoning

• Spatial Ability

• Visual Pattern Recognition

• Series

• Coding-Decoding

• Direction Sense

• Blood Relations

• Analogy

• Classification

Candidates are advised to practise previous-year questions and mock tests regularly to improve their speed and accuracy.

AFCAT 01/2027 Salary and Benefits

Candidates selected through AFCAT are commissioned as officers in the Indian Air Force and receive salary and allowances according to the applicable Defence Pay Matrix.

According to the notification, the pay details for the rank of Flying Officer are as follows:

In addition to basic pay and Military Service Pay, officers may receive applicable allowances depending on their branch, duties and place of posting.

These may include:

• Flying Allowance

• Technical Allowance

• Transport Allowance

• Risk and Hardship Allowance

• Other admissible service benefits

The applicable allowances and benefits are governed by the prevailing rules and service conditions.

AFCAT 01/2027 Training Details

Candidates selected after the AFSB and medical examination will undergo training at the designated Air Force training establishments. The courses are scheduled to commence in the first week of January 2028.

The approximate training duration is:

During training, candidates receive the prescribed stipend and undergo professional, academic and physical training.

Candidates are advised to maintain good physical fitness before reporting for training.

Physical and Medical Standards for AFCAT 2027

Candidates must satisfy the medical and physical standards prescribed by the Indian Air Force. The medical requirements differ according to the nature of the branch and duties.

Some important height requirements are given below:

Applicable height relaxations are available for certain categories and regions as specified in the official notification.

Candidates must also meet the prescribed standards relating to:

• Weight and body proportions

• Vision and eyesight

• Hearing ability

• General physical health

• Dental health

• Medical history

• Other branch-specific medical requirements

Flying Branch candidates are subject to additional medical and anthropometric requirements.

Candidates should read Appendix A of the official notification before applying, particularly if they have any medical or eyesight-related concerns.

How to Apply Online for AFCAT 01/2027?

Eligible candidates can submit their applications through the official AFCAT website. The application process is completely online. Candidates should keep their personal information and scanned documents ready before starting the registration process.

Follow the steps below:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Visit the official AFCAT application portal:

https://afcat.edcil.co.in/

Step 2: Complete Registration

Click on the registration or sign-up option.

Enter the following information:

• Full Name as mentioned in the Class 10 certificate

• Mobile Number

• Email Address

Verify the mobile number and email address through OTP.

Step 3: Receive Login Credentials

After successful registration, the system will generate a User ID and Password.

These credentials will be sent to the registered email address and mobile number.

Step 4: Login to the Application Portal

Use the provided User ID and Password to log in.

Click on the Go to Application option to access the application form.

Step 5: Fill in Personal Details

Enter the required personal information, including:

• Date of Birth

• Gender

• Nationality

• Address

• Contact Information

• Other relevant details

Ensure that all information matches the supporting documents.

Step 6: Enter Educational Qualification

Fill in your educational details, including:

• Class 10 qualification

• Class 12 qualification

• Graduation details

• Post-Graduation details, if applicable

• Engineering qualification, if applicable

• GATE details, if applying through GATE Score Entry

• NCC certificate details, if applying through NCC Special Entry

Step 7: Select Branch and Course Preferences

Choose the appropriate entry and branch according to your eligibility. Candidates should carefully review their preferences before proceeding.

Step 8: Upload Required Documents

Upload the required scanned documents in the prescribed format.

These generally include:

• Recent passport-size photograph

• Signature

• Thumb impression

Step 9: Pay the Application Fee

Candidates applying through AFCAT Entry must pay the prescribed examination fee of ₹550 plus GST.

NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry candidates are exempted from the examination fee.

Step 10: Review and Submit the Application

Check all entered information carefully.

After successful payment and final submission, download or print the application details for future reference.

Important: The application form cannot be edited after final submission. Candidates should carefully verify their information before completing the process.

Documents Required for AFCAT 01/2027 Application

Candidates should keep the following documents and information ready:

1. Class 10 Certificate

2. Class 12 Marksheet and Certificate

3. Graduation Marksheet and Degree

4. Engineering Degree, if applicable

5. Post-Graduation Certificate, if applicable

6. Valid Aadhaar Card

7. Recent Passport-Size Photograph

8. Scanned Signature

9. Thumb Impression

10. Valid Email ID

11. Active Mobile Number

12. NCC Air Wing Certificate, if applicable

13. GATE Scorecard, if applicable

The required photograph, signature and thumb impression should be uploaded in the prescribed JPG/JPEG format.

Document Image Specifications:

Candidates should refer to the official application instructions for the exact upload requirements.

AFCAT 01/2027 Admit Card

The Indian Air Force has scheduled the AFCAT 01/2027 examination for 31 January 2027. According to the official notification, candidates can download their admit cards from 27 January 2027 onwards. The admit card will be available through the official AFCAT portal.

Candidates should use their login credentials to download the e-Admit Card and take a colour printout for the examination.

Important Examination Instructions:

• Carry the printed AFCAT admit card.

• Carry the original Aadhaar Card.

• Carry one additional original government-issued photo identity card.

• Carry two passport-size colour photographs matching the uploaded photograph.

• Carry a blue or black ballpoint pen.

• Reach the examination centre well before the reporting time.

The reporting time is 8:00 AM, and the last entry time is 9:00 AM. The examination will be conducted from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Candidates will not be permitted to enter after the prescribed last entry time.

AFCAT 01/2027 Important Links

Candidates can use the following official links to access recruitment-related information.

Candidates should use the official Indian Air Force website for authentic updates regarding the recruitment process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. When was the AFCAT 01/2027 Notification released?

The Indian Air Force released the AFCAT 01/2027 recruitment notification on 11 November 2026.

Q2. How many vacancies are available under AFCAT 01/2027?

A total of 284 tentative vacancies have been announced under AFCAT Entry and GATE Score Entry. NCC Special Entry vacancies are allocated separately according to the prescribed percentage.

Q3. What is the last date to apply for AFCAT 01/2027?

The last date to submit the online application is 11 December 2026, up to 11:30 PM.

Q4. What is the AFCAT 01/2027 examination date?

The AFCAT 01/2027 online examination is scheduled for 31 January 2027.

Q5. What is the age limit for AFCAT 01/2027?

The age limit for Flying Branch is 20 to 24 years. For Ground Duty Technical and Non-Technical branches, the age limit is 20 to 26 years, calculated as on 01 January 2028. Eligible DGCA CPL holders can apply for Flying Branch up to 26 years.

Q6. What is the educational qualification required for AFCAT 2027?

The educational qualification depends on the selected branch. Flying Branch generally requires 10+2 Physics and Mathematics along with a qualifying graduation or engineering degree. Ground Duty branches have separate educational requirements.

Q7. What is the application fee for AFCAT 01/2027?

The application fee for AFCAT Entry is ₹550 plus GST. NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry candidates do not have to pay the examination fee.

Q8. What is the selection process for AFCAT 01/2027?

The selection process includes the online AFCAT examination, AFSB testing, CPSS for eligible Flying Branch candidates, medical examination and final merit list. NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry candidates follow their respective direct-shortlisting routes for AFSB.

Q9. What is the salary of an AFCAT officer?

The Flying Officer pay scale is ₹56,100 to ₹1,77,500 under Pay Level 10, with Military Service Pay of ₹15,500, along with applicable allowances.

Q10. Can final-year students apply for AFCAT 01/2027?

Yes. Eligible final-year or final-semester students can apply if they have no current backlog at the time of application and fulfil the prescribed deadline for submitting proof of completion of their final examinations.

Q11. Can women apply for AFCAT 01/2027?

Yes. Eligible female candidates can apply for the branches and commission types available to women under the recruitment notification.

Q12. Where can candidates apply for AFCAT 01/2027?

Candidates can submit their applications through the official website https://afcat.edcil.co.in/.

AFCAT 01/2027 is an important recruitment opportunity for graduates and eligible engineering candidates who wish to become commissioned officers in the Indian Air Force.

With 284 tentative vacancies under AFCAT and GATE Score Entry, the recruitment offers opportunities across Flying, Ground Duty Technical and Ground Duty Non-Technical branches. Eligible NCC candidates can also apply through the special entry route.

Candidates should carefully review the eligibility requirements, educational qualifications, age criteria and medical standards before submitting their applications.

The application process closes on 11 December 2026, and the written examination is scheduled for 31 January 2027. Interested candidates are advised to complete their registration before the deadline and begin preparing for the written examination and subsequent selection stages.

For the latest updates regarding AFCAT 01/2027, including admit cards, examination results and other recruitment notices, candidates should regularly visit the official Indian Air Force website and XamToppr.