Dreaming of flying high with the Indian Air Force (IAF)? If you’re passionate about serving the nation, crave adventure, and want to turn your dreams into discipline and duty, AFCAT 2025 recruitment is your gateway.
Whether you’re a first-time aspirant or a repeat candidate, this comprehensive guide will give you everything you need—from eligibility and selection process to application tips and exam insights.
What is AFCAT?
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is conducted by the Indian Air Force to recruit Class 1 Gazetted Officers in:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical)
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
Recruitment through AFCAT opens up exciting roles with prestige, salary, perks, and the honor of wearing the blue uniform.
AFCAT 2025 Important Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | July 2025 |
| Application Start Date | July 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | August 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | January 2026 |
| AFCAT Exam Date | February 2026 |
| Result Declaration | March 2026 |
(Keep checking the official AFCAT website for updated dates.)
IAF AFCAT Recruitment 2025 Eligibility Criteria
Nationality
- Must be an Indian citizen as per the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955.
Age Limit
| Branch | Age |
|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 20 to 24 years |
| Ground Duty (Technical/Non-Tech) | 20 to 26 years |
Educational Qualifications
- Flying Branch: Graduation with minimum 60% + Maths & Physics in 10+2.
- Ground Duty (Tech): B.E/B.Tech degree with minimum 60%.
- Ground Duty (Non-Tech): Graduate in any stream with 60% marks.
AFCAT Exam Pattern
AFCAT Exam Structure
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 25 | 75 |
| Verbal Ability (English) | 25 | 75 |
| Numerical Ability | 18 | 54 |
| Reasoning & Military Aptitude | 32 | 96 |
| Total | 100 | 300 |
Duration: 2 hours
Negative Marking: 1 mark deducted for each wrong answer
EKT (Engineering Knowledge Test)
Only for Ground Duty (Technical) candidates.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical, Computer Science, Electrical & Electronics | 50 | 150 | 45 mins |
How to Apply for AFCAT 2025
- Visit the official website: https://afcat.cdac.in
- Register using a valid email ID and phone number.
- Fill in personal, educational, and preference details.
- Upload scanned photograph, signature, and documents.
- Pay application fee: ₹250 (No fee for NCC Special Entry).
- Submit and take printout of the confirmation page.
Top Tips to Crack AFCAT 2025
- Know the syllabus thoroughly – Download the latest AFCAT syllabus PDF.
- Solve previous year papers – Helps you understand patterns and difficulty.
- Time Management – Practice full-length mock tests regularly.
- Focus on weak areas – Especially GA and numerical ability.
- Stay updated – Read daily news, especially defence-related.
What Happens After You Clear AFCAT?
AFSB Interview (Air Force Selection Board)
Shortlisted candidates go through a 5-day SSB-style process including:
- Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR)
- Psychological Tests
- Group Testing Officer Tasks (GTO)
- Personal Interview
- CPSS (only for Flying Branch)
Final Merit List & Training
- Final selection is based on AFCAT score + AFSB performance + medical fitness.
- Training is conducted at Air Force Academy, Dundigal (Hyderabad).
- Duration varies from 74 weeks (Flying) to 52 weeks (Ground Duty).
AFCAT Salary & Perks
| Rank | Pay Scale (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Flying Officer | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 |
| MSP | ₹15,500/month |
| Allowances | Flying, Technical, Uniform, etc. |
Free accommodation, ration, medical, CSD facilities, insurance, leave travel, and lifetime respect are part of the deal.
FAQs
Is there a limit on the number of AFCAT attempts?
No, you can apply as long as you’re within the age limit.
Is AFCAT tougher than NDA or CDS?
Each has its own challenges. AFCAT focuses more on English and reasoning.
Can final year students apply?
Yes, provided they can produce the degree before training begins.
Ready to Join the Indian Air Force in 2025?
If your heart beats for discipline, courage, and service, AFCAT 2025 is your golden opportunity. Don’t wait—start your preparation now and become a proud guardian of Indian skies.
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Still Confused? Let’s Help You
Leave your queries in the comments or contact us directly. We’re here to guide you through every step of the AFCAT journey.
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