Indian Air Force Commissioned Officers

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the AFCAT 2 2026 notification, inviting applications from dynamic men and women to join as Commissioned Officers. This recruitment cycle offers a prestigious gateway into the Flying and Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) branches of the IAF, with 142+ tentative vacancies available under Permanent and Short Service Commissions.

The online application window is currently active and will accept submissions until June 19, 2026.

📅 AFCAT 2 2026 Overview & Important Dates

🎓 Branch-Wise Eligibility Criteria

Qualifications and age thresholds vary significantly across different operational branches (Age is calculated strictly as of July 1, 2027):

1. Flying Branch

• Age Limit: 20 to 24 years (born between July 2, 2003, and July 1, 2007). (Relaxable up to 26 years for individuals holding a valid commercial pilot license from the DGCA).

• Education: Mandatorily cleared Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level (with 50% minimum each) AND completed a 3-year Graduation degree in any stream OR a 4-year B.E./B.Tech degree with at least 60% marks.

2. Ground Duty (Technical) — AE(L) and AE(M)

• Age Limit: 20 to 26 years (born between July 2, 2001, and July 1, 2007).

• Education: Minimum 60% marks each in Physics and Math at 10+2. Candidates must possess a 4-year Engineering/Technology degree or an integrated Post-Graduation in relevant engineering streams.

3. Ground Duty (Non-Technical)

• Age Limit: 20 to 26 years.

• Education:

  • Administration & Logistics / Weapon Systems: Graduate degree in any discipline with a minimum of 60% marks.

  • Accounts: B.Com or BBA/BMS with Finance specialization (minimum 60% marks).

  • Education: Post-Graduation degree in any discipline along with Graduation.

⚠️ Marital Status: All applicants must be unmarried when the training cycle begins. Marrying during the training tenure is strictly prohibited and results in immediate discharge.

📋 Vacancy Distribution Matrix

The 142+ vacancies are strategically spread across various operational departments:

⚙️ Selection Matrix & Exam Structure

To clear the exam and get recommended for the Air Force Academy, candidates must navigate a rigorous multi-stage pipeline:

[Written Exam (CBT)] ➡️ [AFSB Interview (Stage I & II)] ➡️ [Medical Exams (+CPSS for Pilots)] ➡️ [Final Merit List]

Written Exam Breakdown (AFCAT Entry Only)

• Format: Online Computer-Based Test containing 100 Multiple Choice Questions.

• Total Marks / Duration: 300 Marks across a strict 2-Hour window.

• Syllabus Focus: Verbal Ability in English, Numerical Ability, Reasoning & Military Aptitude, and General Awareness.

• Marking Rule: +3 marks for every right answer; -1 mark for every incorrect choice. No deductions for unattempted answers.

💰 Compensation & Pay Level

• Rank on Commissioning: Flying Officer.

• Pay Matrix: Level 10 of the 7th CPC Matrix (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500).

• Stipend: Flight Cadets receive a fixed allowance of ₹56,100 per month during their 1-year training period.

• Allowances: Military Service Pay (MSP of ₹15,500/month), flying allowance (for pilot profiles), DA, HRA, and medical insurance perks.

💻 How to Register & Submit the Form

1. Navigate to the official IAF assessment portal: afcat.cdac.in or afcat.edcil.co.in.

2. Click on “AFCAT 02/2026 Registration” and input your basic identity criteria to generate your login credentials.

3. Log in, select your eligible entry pathway, and complete your basic educational profiles and branch preferences.

4. Upload your signature, scanned thumb impression, a recent color photograph, and complete the live-webcam image capture step.

5. Provide your Aadhaar card details (the last 4 digits are mandatory).

6. Clear the application processing fee of ₹550 + GST through online pathways (Note: NCC Special and GATE Entry applicants are completely exempted from payment).

7. Double-check your preference list and hit Submit before printing a tracking copy.