The Indian Air Force has officially commenced the registration process for the AFCAT 02/2026 recruitment drive, offering over 300 vacancies across Flying and Ground Duty branches. Aspiring candidates can now submit their applications through the official portal at afcat.edcil.co.in within the stipulated timeline. This recruitment campaign encompasses courses scheduled to commence in July 2027 and includes entries via AFCAT Entry, NCC Special Entry, and GATE Score Entry. The detailed notification outlines a structured selection process that will be conducted nationwide.
AFCAT 02/2026 Application Window and Key Dates
According to the official notification, the registration window opens on May 20, 2026, and closes on June 19, 2026. The notification was issued on May 12, 2026. The exact dates for the online examination are yet to be announced by the Indian Air Force.
AFCAT 02/2026 Eligibility Criteria and Age Limits
Both male and female candidates are eligible to apply for the AFCAT 02/2026 recruitment. For Ground Duty Technical posts, a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree is mandatory, while Non-Technical posts require a graduate qualification in relevant disciplines. The age limit for the Flying Branch is between 20 and 24 years, and for Ground Duty branches, it is between 20 and 26 years, as calculated on July 1, 2027. Age relaxation is applicable as per government norms.
AFCAT 02/2026 Application Fee and Exemptions
Candidates applying through the AFCAT Entry mode are required to pay an application fee of Rs. 550, along with applicable GST. However, no application fee is levied for candidates applying via NCC Special Entry or GATE Score Entry.
AFCAT 02/2026 Selection Process and Travel Allowance
The selection process comprises an online written examination, an Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview, document verification, and a medical examination. The Indian Air Force has emphasized that the recruitment will be merit-based and conducted through a fair and transparent system. Candidates appearing before the AFSB for the first time may be eligible for travel allowance as per official conditions.
How to Apply for AFCAT 02/2026 Online
Candidates must follow these steps to apply: visit the official AFCAT portal at afcat.edcil.co.in, complete the registration process, fill in the application form with accurate details, upload the required documents, pay the application fee if applicable, submit the form, and download the confirmation for future reference. The direct application link is available on the official portal, which remains active throughout the application window. Candidates are strongly advised to complete their registration within the stipulated timeline, as late submissions will not be accepted. The selection process includes a written exam, AFSB interview, document verification, and medical test, all conducted on a merit basis. Examination dates will be announced by the Indian Air Force in due course.
