AFCAT 02/2026 Application Window Closes Today for Indian Air Force Vacancies: Check Eligibility

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will close the application window for AFCAT 02/2026, NCC Special Entry, and GATE Score Entry today, June 21, 2026. Interested and eligible candidates aspiring to join the Indian Air Force as commissioned officers must complete their online registration before the deadline through the official AFCAT portal.

AFCAT 02/2026 Application Window Closes Today for Indian Air Force Vacancies

The recruitment drive is being conducted for courses commencing in July 2027 and offers opportunities for both men and women candidates in the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) Branches. The official notification was released on May 20, 2026, and the application process began on the same day.

With the registration window closing today, candidates who have not yet submitted their applications are advised to complete the process immediately to avoid last-minute technical issues.

AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment Overview

The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is one of the most sought-after defence examinations in India, offering graduates and engineering candidates an opportunity to serve as officers in the Indian Air Force.

Key Highlights

Branches Available Under AFCAT 02/2026

The recruitment is being conducted for the following branches:

Flying Branch

Candidates selected for the Flying Branch will be trained for various flying duties in the Indian Air Force and can pursue careers as fighter pilots, transport pilots, or helicopter pilots.

Ground Duty (Technical) Branch

Technical officers are responsible for managing and maintaining advanced aircraft systems, weapons, communication equipment, and engineering operations.

Streams include:

• Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics)
• Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical)
• Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch

Non-technical officers perform administrative, logistics, accounts, education, and meteorology-related responsibilities within the Air Force.

AFCAT 02/2026 Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility requirements vary according to the branch applied for. Generally, candidates must possess:

• A bachelor's degree from a recognized university for non-technical entries.
• Engineering qualifications for technical branches.
• NCC Air Wing Senior Division 'C' Certificate for NCC Special Entry.
• Valid GATE scores for GATE-based technical entries.
• Prescribed age limits and physical fitness standards as specified in the notification.

Candidates are advised to carefully review the detailed eligibility conditions before submitting their applications.

How to Apply for AFCAT 02/2026?

Candidates can complete the application process by following these steps:

1. Visit the official AFCAT portal.

2. Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.

3. Fill in personal, educational, and communication details.

4. Upload the required documents and photographs.

5. Pay the application fee (where applicable).

6. Verify all information carefully.

7. Submit the application form and download the confirmation page.

Selection Process for AFCAT 02/2026

The selection procedure includes multiple stages:

AFCAT Written Examination

Candidates applying through AFCAT Entry must appear for the written examination covering:

• General Awareness
• Verbal Ability in English
• Numerical Ability
• Reasoning and Military Aptitude

Air Force Selection Board (AFSB)

Shortlisted candidates will undergo:

• Officer Intelligence Rating Tests
• Psychological Tests
• Group Tasks
• Personal Interview

Medical Examination

Candidates recommended by the AFSB must clear the prescribed medical fitness standards.

Final Merit List

The final selection will be based on performance in the written examination, AFSB interview, medical fitness, and availability of vacancies.

Why AFCAT is a Popular Career Option?

AFCAT provides candidates with the opportunity to join one of India's most prestigious defence services. Officers in the Indian Air Force enjoy:

• Attractive salary and allowances
• Leadership opportunities
• Professional training
• Adventure and travel opportunities
• Medical and housing facilities
• Long-term career growth

Last-Minute Advice for Applicants

As the application window closes today, candidates should ensure that all details entered in the application form are accurate. It is advisable to complete the registration process well before the deadline to avoid server congestion or payment-related issues.

The AFCAT 02/2026 recruitment drive presents a valuable opportunity for aspiring defence personnel to join the Indian Air Force as commissioned officers. Eligible candidates who have not yet applied should complete their registration before the application portal closes on June 21, 2026, and begin preparing for the selection process.