Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 1 2026

AFCAT is conducted twice a year by the Indian Air Force to induct officers into the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) Branches.

1. Important Dates

• Notification PDF Out: December 2025.
• Online Application Dates: December 1 - December 30, 2025.
• AFCAT Written Exam: February 16 to 18, 2026 (Tentative).
• AFSB Interviews: To be scheduled post-result declaration.

2. Selection Process Guide

1. Online AFCAT Exam: Multiple-choice testing on General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Reasoning, and Military Aptitude. All candidates must give this.
2. EKT (Engineering Knowledge Test): For candidates applying for Technical Branch posts only.
3. AFSB Interview: 5-Day intense interview process at an Air Force Selection Board. Involves psychological tests, group tasks, and a personal interview.
4. CPSS: Computerised Pilot Selection System (For Flying branch only - once in a lifetime test).
5. Medical Examination: Rigorous fitness evaluation.

3. Branches and Roles

• Flying Branch: Pilots for fighters, transports, and helicopters.
• Ground Duty (Technical): Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics and Mechanical).
• Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Administration, Accounts, Logistics, Education, Meteorology, Weapon Systems Branch.

4. Exact Official Links

5. Preparation Strategy (Written & AFSB)

• AFCAT Objective Exam: Accuracy is key due to negative marking. Focus on solving R.S. Aggarwal for Math and Reasoning. Lucent GK is sufficient for General Awareness.
• English: Ensure a very high standard of English grammar and vocabulary. Read newspapers daily.
• AFSB Preparation: Start practicing OIR (Officer Intelligence Rating) tests early. Develop storytelling skills for PPDT and TAT. Follow current geopolitical events for Group Discussions and Personal Interviews. Physical fitness (running, pull-ups) should be maintained.

[!WARNING] Tatoo policy is very strict in the Armed Forces. Permanent body tattoos are only permitted on specific designated body parts (inner face of forearms). Carefully review the medical guidelines.