The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is a gateway for aspirants aiming to join the Indian Air Force (IAF) as commissioned officers. Conducted biannually, the exam opens opportunities for roles in the Flying Branch, Technical Branch, and Ground Duty Branch. With the AFCAT Notification 2025 expected soon, this blog covers everything you need to know—from important dates to preparation strategies.
AFCAT Notification 2025: Important Dates
While the official notification for AFCAT 2025 is yet to be released, candidates can expect the following tentative timeline based on previous cycles:
- Notification Release: August 2025
- Online Application Start Date: August 2025
- Last Date to Apply: September 2025
- Exam Date: February 2025
- Admit Card Release: January 2025
Candidates must regularly check the official AFCAT website (afcat.cdac.in) for updates once the notification is live.
AFCAT Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements:
- Nationality: Indian citizenship.
- Age Limit:
- Flying Branch: 20–24 years (born between 02 January 2000 and 01 January 2004).
- Technical Branch: 20–26 years.
- Ground Duty Branch: 20–26 years (varies by role).
Age relaxations apply for reserved categories.
- Educational Qualifications:
- Flying Branch: Bachelor’s degree (min 60%) with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level.
- Technical Branch: Engineering degree in relevant disciplines.
- Ground Duty Branch: Graduation/post-graduation (varies by role, e.g., Administration, Logistics, Accounts).
AFCAT Exam Pattern 2025
The AFCAT written exam is a 2-hour online test with 100 questions across four sections:
- General Awareness: 20 questions (History, Geography, Current Affairs).
- Verbal Ability: 30 questions (Grammar, Comprehension, Vocabulary).
- Numerical Ability: 15 questions (Arithmetic, Algebra).
- Reasoning & Military Aptitude: 35 questions (Logic, Spatial Ability).
Marking Scheme: +3 for correct answers, -1 for incorrect. No negative marking for unattempted questions.
Candidates opting for the Technical Branch must also appear for the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT), a 45-minute exam with 50 MCQs from core engineering subjects.
How to Apply for AFCAT 2025
Follow these steps once the notification is released:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to afcat.cdac.in.
- Register: Click “New User” and enter basic details.
- Fill Application Form: Provide personal, educational, and contact information.
- Upload Documents: Scanned copies of photo, signature, and ID proof.
- Pay Fee: ₹550 (waived for female/SC/ST candidates).
- Submit: Save the confirmation slip for future reference.
AFCAT Selection Process
The selection involves three stages:
- Written Exam: Clear AFCAT (and EKT if applicable) with the cutoff marks.
- AFSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates attend a 5-day interview at AFSB centers, involving psychological tests, group activities, and personal interviews.
- Medical Examination: A thorough health check at IAF hospitals.
- Final Merit List: Based on written exam (85%) and AFSB performance (15%).
AFCAT Preparation Tips 2025
- Understand the Syllabus: Focus on high-weightage topics like Current Affairs, Vocabulary, and Reasoning.
- Practice Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
- Revise Basics: Strengthen fundamentals in Maths and English.
- Stay Updated: Follow news portals for General Awareness.
- Physical Fitness: Prepare for the AFSB’s physical tasks like running and group exercises.
Recommended resources include previous years’ question papers, AFCAT-specific guidebooks, and online test series.
Career Opportunities Through AFCAT
Clearing AFCAT opens doors to prestigious roles in the IAF:
- Flying Branch: Pilot officers flying fighter jets, transport aircraft, or helicopters.
- Technical Branch: Engineering officers managing aircraft systems.
- Ground Duty: Roles in Logistics, Administration, Education, and Meteorology.
Benefits include attractive salaries (starting ₹56,100/month), healthcare, housing, and lifelong respect as an IAF officer.
FAQs on AFCAT Notification 2025
- How many attempts are allowed?
No cap for Flying Branch; Technical/Ground Duty Branches allow up to two attempts. - Can final-year students apply?
Yes, if they submit their degree before the course start date. - Is there a physical fitness test?
Yes, during the AFSB interview (1.6 km run, push-ups, etc.). - What is the application fee?
₹550 (online payment). -
When will admit cards release?
Typically 2–3 weeks before the exam.