The Indian Air Force has officially released the notification for AFCAT 02/2026, inviting applications for recruitment through the Air Force Common Admission Test, NCC Special Entry, and GATE Score Entry. This recruitment drive is aimed at filling vacancies for courses scheduled to commence in July 2027. Eligible candidates can submit their applications starting May 20, 2026, via the official AFCAT portal at afcat.edcil.co.in.
Eligibility and Vacancy Details
The notification announces more than 300 vacancies under AFCAT 02/2026. Both men and women are eligible to apply for the Flying Branch and Ground Duty branches, which include Technical and Non-Technical categories. The recruitment offers entries under Permanent Commission and Short Service Commission, depending on the branch and category.
For Ground Duty Technical posts, candidates must possess a BTech degree, while Non-Technical applicants need a graduate degree in a relevant discipline. Flying Branch candidates must be between 20 and 24 years of age. Ground Duty Technical and Non-Technical applicants should be between 20 and 26 years. Age is calculated as of July 1, 2027, with applicable relaxations as per rules.
Application Fee and Important Dates
Online registration runs from May 20, 2026, to June 19, 2026. The notification was released on May 12, 2026. Examination dates are yet to be announced. Candidates applying through AFCAT Entry must pay an application fee of Rs. 550 plus GST. No fee is required for NCC Special Entry or GATE Score Entry candidates.
Selection Process
The Indian Air Force states that selection will be strictly based on merit through a fair system. The process includes an AFCAT online written examination at designated centres across India, followed by the Air Force Selection Board process, document verification, and medical examination. First-time candidates appearing before the Air Force Selection Board are eligible for travel allowance as per conditions in the official notification.
