The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the AFCAT 2 2026 Notification for candidates aspiring to join the Air Force as Commissioned Officers in the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. The online application process for AFCAT 02/2026 started on 20 May 2026 and will remain open until 19 June 2026. According to the official recruitment announcement, hundreds of vacancies have been notified under various branches, making this one of the most sought-after defence recruitment opportunities of the year.
Candidates who dream of serving the nation while building a prestigious career in the Indian Air Force should carefully review the eligibility criteria, vacancy details, selection process, and important dates before submitting their applications.
AFCAT 2 2026 Notification Overview
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is conducted twice every year by the Indian Air Force to recruit officers for various branches. AFCAT 02/2026 is being conducted for courses commencing in July 2027.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | AFCAT 02/2026 |
| Conducting Body | Indian Air Force |
| Recruitment Type | Commissioned Officer Entry |
| Branches | Flying, Ground Duty Technical, Ground Duty Non-Technical |
| Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 19 June 2026 |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test |
| Course Commencement | July 2027 |
| Official Website | AFCAT Portal |
AFCAT 2 2026 Important Dates
Candidates should keep track of all major recruitment events to avoid missing any deadlines.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | May 2026 |
| Online Application Start | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 19 June 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | To Be Announced |
| AFCAT Exam Date | Expected August 2026 |
| Result Declaration | To Be Announced |
| AFSB Interview | After Result |
| Training Begins | July 2027 |
The Indian Air Force has advised candidates to complete their applications well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues.
AFCAT 2 2026 Vacancy Details
The Indian Air Force has announced approximately 379 vacancies for AFCAT 02/2026 across Flying Branch and Ground Duty branches. However, the exact number may vary depending on organizational requirements.
The vacancies are distributed among:
Flying Branch
- Short Service Commission (SSC) for Men and Women
Ground Duty (Technical)
Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics)
- Men and Women
Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical)
- Men and Women
Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
- Administration
- Logistics
- Accounts
- Education
- Weapon Systems
- Meteorology
The detailed branch-wise vacancy breakup is available in the official notification.
AFCAT 2 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must satisfy the educational qualification, age limit, and nationality requirements prescribed by the Indian Air Force.
Nationality
Applicants must be:
- Citizens of India
AFCAT 2 2026 Age Limit
Flying Branch
- 20 to 24 years
- Candidates with a valid Commercial Pilot Licence may receive age relaxation up to 26 years.
Ground Duty Branches
- 20 to 26 years
The exact age calculation date should be verified from the official notification before applying.
Educational Qualification
Flying Branch
Candidates must possess:
- Graduation degree with minimum required marks
- Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level
OR
- BE/B.Tech degree from a recognized university
Ground Duty Technical Branch
Candidates should possess:
- Engineering degree in relevant disciplines
Examples include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics Engineering
- Computer Science
- Aeronautical Engineering
Ground Duty Non-Technical Branch
Depending on the post, candidates must hold:
- Graduate Degree
- Postgraduate Degree
- Relevant professional qualifications
Specific educational requirements vary according to the branch selected.
AFCAT 2 2026 Application Fee
Candidates applying through AFCAT are required to pay the prescribed examination fee during online registration.
Payment can be made through:
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- UPI
- Net Banking
Candidates applying through certain special entries may be exempted from AFCAT examination fees as per notification provisions.
AFCAT 2 2026 Selection Process
One of the most important aspects of the recruitment is understanding the selection procedure.
The AFCAT 2 2026 selection process consists of the following stages:
Stage 1: AFCAT Written Examination
Candidates first appear for the AFCAT online examination.
Exam Pattern
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Online |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Questions | 100 |
| Maximum Marks | 300 |
| Negative Marking | Yes |
The exam tests candidates in:
- English
- General Awareness
- Numerical Ability
- Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test
Stage 2: AFSB Interview
Candidates who qualify the written examination are called for the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview.
The AFSB selection process generally includes:
Officer Intelligence Rating Test
Candidates undergo intelligence and reasoning assessments.
Picture Perception and Discussion Test
This stage evaluates:
- Communication skills
- Leadership qualities
- Decision-making abilities
Psychological Tests
Candidates are assessed on:
- Personality traits
- Officer-like qualities
- Mental aptitude
Group Testing
Includes:
- Outdoor tasks
- Team activities
- Leadership exercises
Personal Interview
Conducted by senior officers to evaluate suitability for Air Force service.
Stage 3: Medical Examination
Candidates recommended by AFSB undergo comprehensive medical testing.
Medical standards cover:
- Vision
- Hearing
- Physical fitness
- General health
Only medically fit candidates proceed further.
Stage 4: Final Merit List
The final merit list is prepared based on:
- AFCAT performance
- AFSB interview performance
- Medical fitness
- Vacancy availability
Candidates whose names appear in the final merit list are offered admission to Air Force training academies.
AFCAT 2 2026 Exam Pattern
The AFCAT examination is designed to assess a candidate’s overall aptitude.
Subject-Wise Distribution
English
Topics include:
- Vocabulary
- Grammar
- Comprehension
- Error Detection
General Awareness
Questions cover:
- Current Affairs
- History
- Geography
- Defence
- Science
Numerical Ability
Topics include:
- Percentage
- Profit and Loss
- Time and Work
- Ratio and Proportion
- Number System
Reasoning and Military Aptitude
Includes:
- Logical Reasoning
- Spatial Ability
- Analytical Skills
Candidates should thoroughly prepare all sections to maximize their scores.
AFCAT 2 2026 Salary
Selected candidates receive attractive salary packages along with various allowances.
Starting Pay
The basic pay generally begins at Level 10 of the Pay Matrix.
Additional benefits include:
- Military Service Pay
- Flying Allowance
- Transport Allowance
- Dearness Allowance
- Medical Facilities
- Housing Benefits
- Leave Travel Concessions
The Air Force offers one of the most rewarding careers among government services.
How to Apply Online for AFCAT 2 2026
Candidates can complete the application process online by following these steps:
Step 1
Visit the AFCAT registration portal.
Step 2
Complete the registration process.
Step 3
Verify mobile number and email ID.
Step 4
Log in using generated credentials.
Step 5
Fill personal and educational details.
Step 6
Upload:
- Photograph
- Signature
- Required documents
Step 7
Pay the application fee.
Step 8
Review all information carefully.
Step 9
Submit the application form.
Step 10
Download and print the confirmation page for future reference.
Documents Required for AFCAT 2 2026
Candidates should keep the following documents ready:
- Class 10 Certificate
- Class 12 Marksheet
- Graduation Certificate
- Engineering Degree (if applicable)
- Passport-size Photograph
- Signature Scan
- Identity Proof
Original documents will be verified during later stages of the recruitment process.
Preparation Tips for AFCAT 2 2026
To improve your chances of selection:
Focus on Current Affairs
Read newspapers and defence-related updates regularly.
Practice Mock Tests
Online mock tests help improve speed and accuracy.
Improve English Skills
Work on:
- Vocabulary
- Reading Comprehension
- Grammar
Strengthen Numerical Ability
Practice daily calculations and aptitude questions.
Prepare for AFSB
Develop:
- Communication skills
- Leadership qualities
- Confidence
Why Join the Indian Air Force Through AFCAT?
Joining the Indian Air Force offers:
- Prestigious officer rank
- Excellent salary
- Job security
- Adventure and leadership opportunities
- Professional growth
- Service to the nation
- World-class training
Thousands of candidates compete every year for the opportunity to wear the Air Force uniform and serve the country with pride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the last date to apply for AFCAT 2 2026?
The last date for online application submission is 19 June 2026.
How many vacancies are available in AFCAT 2 2026?
Approximately 379 vacancies have been announced under various branches.
What is the AFCAT selection process?
The selection process includes:
- AFCAT Written Exam
- AFSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Is there negative marking in AFCAT?
Yes, AFCAT includes negative marking for incorrect answers.
Can final-year students apply?
Eligible final-year students may apply subject to conditions mentioned in the official notification.
Conclusion
The AFCAT 2 2026 Notification presents an excellent opportunity for graduates and engineers seeking a career in the Indian Air Force. With around 379 vacancies, attractive salaries, officer-level status, and a transparent selection process, AFCAT remains one of the most prestigious defence examinations in India. Candidates should complete their applications before 19 June 2026 and begin focused preparation for the written examination and AFSB interview. A well-planned preparation strategy can significantly improve the chances of securing a place in the Indian Air Force and beginning a rewarding career as a Commissioned Officer.
