AFCAT 1 2026 Notification – Guide Cadets Defence Academy Hello and welcome, defence aspirants! Planning a career in the Indian Air Force is a noble dream, and the Air Force…
AFCAT 1 2026 Notification - Guide Cadets Defence Academy
Hello and welcome, defence aspirants! Planning a career in the Indian Air Force is a noble dream, and the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is your key to making it a reality. As your trusted guide from Cadets Defence Academy, we’re here to provide a complete breakdown of AFCAT 1 2026. This comprehensive guide will cover everything from the official AFCAT notification, the application process, and the detailed syllabus, to key exam dates and eligibility criteria.
AFCAT 1 2026 Notification - The Official Announcement
The AFCAT 1 2026 notification is the official document that will set the entire process in motion. This notification will be your go-to source for all crucial information.
What to Expect in the Notification
The official notice, expected to be out in December 2025, will contain:
- Key Dates and Deadlines: This includes the AFCAT application start date and the last date to apply for AFCAT 1 2026.
- Branch-wise Vacancies: The number of openings for the Flying, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches will be specified.
- Eligibility Criteria Overview: A summary of the age limit, educational qualifications, and other requirements.
- Detailed Information: It will also include specifics on the exam pattern, selection process, and training details.
Where to Find the Official Notification
The AFCAT 1 2026 official notification will be released on the official career website of the Indian Air Force, afcat.cdac.in. It’s highly important to read the official PDF document thoroughly to avoid any misunderstandings.
AFCAT 1 2026 Application Form - Your First Step
Once the notification is released, the AFCAT 1 2026 application form will be activated online. The application window is typically open for about a month, starting in December 2025 and ending in January 2026.
Online Application Process Explained
The application process is straightforward, but attention to detail is essential:
- Registration: First, you’ll need to create a new user account on the official AFCAT portal.
- Filling Details: Log in and fill in your personal, educational, and communication details.
- Uploading Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photo, signature, and other required documents.
- Exam Centre Preference: Select your preferred exam cities from the given list.
- Payment: Pay the application fee online. Last year, the fee was ₹550 + GST.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants are rejected due to simple errors on their forms. To avoid this, make sure to double-check every detail. Common mistakes include incomplete forms, incorrect information, and late submissions.
AFCAT 1 2026 Syllabus - What to Study
Understanding the AFCAT 1 2026 syllabus is the most critical part of your preparation. The exam is divided into four main sections for all branches, with a fifth section for technical roles.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch Syllabus
The AFCAT exam for all branches covers:
- General Awareness: This includes a wide range of topics like History, Geography, Civics, Politics, Economics, Current Affairs, and Basic Science.
- Verbal Ability in English: Questions will test your proficiency in Comprehension, Error Detection, Sentence Completion, Synonyms, Antonyms, and Idioms & Phrases.
- Numerical Ability: This section covers fundamental math topics like Decimal Fractions, Time and Work, Profit and Loss, Percentage, Ratio & Proportion, and Simple & Compound Interest.
Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test: Questions will assess your logical reasoning and pattern recognition skills through topics like Venn Diagrams, Syllogisms, and Analogy.
Ground Duty (Technical) Branch Syllabus
For those applying to a technical branch, you will also need to appear for the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) in addition to the four main AFCAT papers. The EKT syllabus is specific to your engineering discipline, such as Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or Electrical & Electronics. It focuses on core engineering subjects.
AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Dates - Mark Your Calendar
Staying on top of the AFCAT 1 2026 exam dates is crucial for a well-planned preparation strategy.
- Notification Release: December 2025
- Application Start Date: December 2025
- Application End Date: January 2026
- Admit Card Release: February 2026
- Exam Dates: The exam is tentatively scheduled for February or March 2026.
Exam Pattern Overview
The AFCAT exam is a computer-based test with 100 questions.
- Total Marks: 300
- Marking Scheme: +3 marks for every correct answer and -1 for every incorrect answer. There is no negative marking for unattempted questions.
- Duration: 2 hours.
- EKT: The EKT is a 45-minute test with 50 questions, carrying 150 marks.
As an exam coach often advises, “Time management is crucial for AFCAT success,” so practice with mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy.
AFCAT 1 2026 Eligibility Criteria - Are You Fit to Fly?
Before you start preparing, you must confirm that you meet the AFCAT 1 2026 eligibility criteria.
Age Limits for Different Branches
The age criteria are calculated as of January 1, 2027.
- Flying Branch: Age should be between 20 and 24 years. (Born between Jan 2, 2003, and Jan 1, 2007, both dates inclusive). A relaxation of up to 26 years is given to candidates with a valid and current Commercial Pilot License.
- Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) Branches: Age should be between 20 and 26 years. (Born between Jan 2, 2001, and Jan 1, 2007, both dates inclusive).
Educational Qualifications
- Flying Branch: Must have passed with at least 50% marks in both Maths and Physics at the 10+2 level, and hold a graduation degree with a minimum of 60% marks.
- Ground Duty (Technical) Branch: Must have passed with at least 50% marks in both Physics and Maths at the 10+2 level and have a four-year degree in Engineering/Technology with a minimum of 60% marks.
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch: Must have a graduation degree with a minimum of 60% marks. Specific degrees are required for different sub-branches like Accounts and Education.
Physical and Medical Standards
You must also meet certain physical and medical standards. This includes specific height requirements, vision standards, and a comprehensive medical fitness test.
Preparation Tips for AFCAT 1 2026
A strategic approach is key to success. Here’s how you can prepare effectively:
Strategic Study Plan
- Analyze the Syllabus: Go through the AFCAT and EKT syllabus and identify your strong and weak areas.
- Create a Timetable: Develop a daily or weekly study plan, allocating dedicated time for each subject.
- Stay Updated: Read newspapers and magazines regularly to improve your General Awareness and English verbal ability.
Practice Makes Perfect
- Solve Previous Year Papers: This will help you understand the exam pattern and question types.
- Take Mock Tests: Regularly taking full-length mock tests will help you improve your time management and identify areas that need more attention.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Don’t ignore subjects you find difficult. Seek guidance from mentors or join a coaching program to strengthen these areas.
Conclusion: Your Future Awaits!
The AFCAT 1 2026 is more than just an exam; it’s a gateway to an exhilarating and respected career in the Indian Air Force. With the right information and a dedicated approach, you can clear this exam and embark on a journey of a lifetime. The path to success requires not just hard work but also smart, guided preparation.
At Cadets Defence Academy, we understand what it takes to ace the AFCAT. Our expert faculty and comprehensive study materials are designed to give you the competitive edge you need. We’ll help you dissect the AFCAT 1 2026 syllabus, master time management, and build the confidence to perform your best on exam day.
The Air Force is calling—are you ready to answer? Take this crucial step towards a life of honor, courage, and pride. Join us at Cadets Defence Academy and let’s turn your dream of serving the nation into a reality. Your future in the skies awaits!
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