IAF AFCAT 1 Registration 2026 Deadline Extended: Complete Details, Eligibility, Exam Date & How to Apply
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially extended the last date for submitting applications for IAF AFCAT 1 2026, bringing relief to thousands of defence aspirants across the country. Candidates can now apply online until December 19, 2025, through the official AFCAT portal at afcat.cdac.in.
AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) is one of the most prestigious defence examinations in India, offering young graduates an opportunity to join the Indian Air Force as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers. The IAF AFCAT 1 2026 recruitment drive aims to fill 340 vacancies across Flying and Ground Duty branches.
If you are planning to build a career in the Indian Air Force, this extension provides a crucial final opportunity to complete your registration without rushing through the process.
What Is AFCAT 01/2026?
AFCAT 01/2026 is the first recruitment cycle of the year conducted by the Indian Air Force to select commissioned officers for various branches. Through this examination, candidates are inducted into leadership roles that involve operational, technical, and administrative responsibilities within the IAF.
Branches Covered Under AFCAT 1 2026
The recruitment process allows entry into the following branches:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty – Technical Branch
- Ground Duty – Non-Technical Branch
Candidates selected through AFCAT undergo rigorous training and, upon commissioning, serve as officers responsible for national security, air operations, and strategic defence management.
IAF AFCAT 1 2026: Important Dates
Here are the key dates candidates must remember:
- Registration Start Date: November 17, 2025
- Last Date to Apply (Extended): December 19, 2025
- AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Date: January 31, 2026
- Exam Centres: 104 cities across India
Candidates are advised not to wait until the last day to apply, as heavy traffic on the portal may lead to technical issues.
AFCAT 1 2026 Vacancy Details
Through AFCAT 01/2026, the Indian Air Force aims to fill a total of 340 officer-level posts. These vacancies are distributed across different branches, including Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical).
The exact branch-wise and category-wise breakup is mentioned in the official AFCAT notification, and candidates should review it carefully before applying to ensure they meet branch-specific requirements.
AFCAT 1 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility conditions laid down by the Indian Air Force.
Nationality
- Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply for IAF AFCAT 1 2026.
Age Limit
- Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years
- Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical): Maximum age limit is 26 years
Age relaxation is applicable as per IAF rules for certain categories and NCC special entry candidates.
Educational Qualification
Flying Branch
- Graduation in any discipline
- Minimum 50% marks in Mathematics and Physics at 10+2 level
Ground Duty – Technical
- Engineering degree in a relevant discipline from a recognized university
Ground Duty – Non-Technical
- Graduation in any discipline from a recognized institution
Medical and Physical Standards
Candidates must meet the medical and physical fitness standards prescribed by the Indian Air Force. This includes guidelines related to:
- Height and weight
- Vision standards
- Overall physical health
- Tattoo policy as per IAF norms
Failure to meet medical standards can lead to disqualification at later stages.
Documents Required for AFCAT 1 2026 Application
Before starting the online application, candidates should keep the following documents and details ready:
- Class 10 and Class 12 certificates
- Graduation or engineering degree details
- Aadhaar card or valid ID proof
- Scanned passport-size photograph and signature
- Active email ID and mobile number
- Online payment method for application fee
- Preferred exam city choices
Keeping documents prepared in advance helps avoid errors during form submission.
IAF AFCAT 1 2026 Application Fee
- Application Fee: ₹550 + applicable GST
- Mode of Payment: Online (Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI)
The application fee is non-refundable, so candidates should verify all details before making payment.
IAF AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Cities Preference
During the registration process, applicants can select up to five preferred examination cities from the list provided on the portal. Exam centres will be allotted based on availability and administrative feasibility.
How to Apply Online for IAF AFCAT 1 2026: Step-by-Step Guide
Candidates can follow the steps below to apply online:
- Visit the official website: afcat.cdac.in or afcat.edcil.co.in
- Click on “AFCAT 01/2026 Registration”
- Register using basic personal details
- Log in with registered credentials
- Fill in educational and personal information
- Upload photograph, signature, and required documents as per specifications
- Choose exam city preferences
- Pay the application fee online
- Review the application form carefully
- Submit the form and download the confirmation page for future reference
Candidates should save a copy of the submitted application and payment receipt.
IAF AFCAT 1 2026 Selection Process
The selection process generally includes the following stages:
- AFCAT Written Examination
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Only candidates who clear all stages successfully are recommended for training and commissioning.
Why AFCAT Is a Prestigious Career Opportunity
Joining the Indian Air Force through AFCAT offers:
- Respectable officer rank
- Competitive pay and allowances
- Job security and pension benefits
- Leadership and adventure-filled career
- Opportunity to serve the nation
For many aspirants, AFCAT represents not just a job but a lifelong honour and responsibility.
Final Reminder for Aspirants
With the IAF AFCAT 1 2026 registration deadline extended to December 19, 2025, candidates have a limited window to apply. Aspirants are strongly advised to complete the application process well before the deadline to avoid last-minute complications.
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