AFCAT 1 2026 Notification Guide: Top Dates, Eligibility

Overview of AFCAT  1  2026 Notification

The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is conducted twice annually by the Indian Air Force for recruitment into the Flying Branch and Ground Duty Branches (Technical & Non‑Technical) as Short Service Commission (SSC) officers.

While the official AFCAT  1  2026 notification is not yet released, it is expected around December 2025, with application opening shortly after and running into early 2026 NCA Academy.

Tentative Timeline for AFCAT  1  2026

• Notification Release: December 2025

• Online Application Window: December 2025 to January 2026

• Admit Card Issuance: February 2026

• AFCAT Exam (AFCAT 1): February–March 2026

• AFSB Interview & CPSS (if applicable): March–April 2026

• Course Commencement: January 2027

Eligibility Criteria

• Citizenship: Indian

• Age Limit:

  • Flying Branch: 20–24 years (26 with valid CPL) as on jan 1, 2027

  • Ground Duty (Technical & Non‑Technical): 20–26 years as on Jan 1, 2027 

• Educational Requirements:

  • Flying Branch: 60% in Graduation OR BE/B‑Tech OR Section A & B of Engineering institutions; plus 50% in Math & Physics at 10+2 level.

  • Ground Duty (Tech): Engineering degree with 60% and 50% marks each in Physics & Math at 10+2.

  • Ground Duty (Non‑Tech): 60% in Graduation in any discipline (with specific PG requirements for some sub‑streams)

Exam Pattern & Syllabus

• Exam Format: Online, 2-hour duration

• Total Questions: 100 (300 marks)

• Sections & Marking:

  • General Awareness

  • Verbal Ability in English

  • Numerical Ability & Reasoning

  • Military Aptitude Test

  • +3 marks for correct answer; –1 for wrong answer 

• For Technical Candidates (Aeronautical Engineering): Additional EKT (Engineering Knowledge Test)following AFCAT.

Selection Process

1. AFCAT Exam (online CBT)

2. EKT (for technical branch applicants)

3. Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) including Stage I (OIR, PPDT) and Stage II (Psychological Tests, Group Tests, Interviews, CPSS for Flying)

4. Medical Examination

5. Final Merit List prepared based on written & AFSB scores

Application Process & Fee

• Application Mode: Online at afcat.cdac.in or careerindianairforce.cdac.in

• Fee:

  • ₹550 + GST for AFCAT entry

  • No fee for NCC Special Entry candidates 

• Documents Required: Educational certificates, photo, signature, ID proof

• Correction Window: Available shortly after application closes (as seen from past cycles) 

Preparation Strategy

• Study subject-wise topics: Current Affairs, English Grammar, Reasoning, Numerical Ability, Military Awareness

• Focus on previous years’ papers and mock tests

• Time management: practice in exam-like conditions

• For technical candidates, review EKT-specific technical subjects

• Prepare for AFSB interview and CPSS with mock group discussions and pilot aptitude tests

Why Choose New Careers Academy for AFCAT Coaching

• Expert Faculty & Tailored Study Material: Highly experienced mentors and updated course material aligned with latest AFCAT syllabus

• Extensive Mock Series: Real-time CBTs, sectional tests, EKT-specific practice, and simulated AFSB drills including CPSS

• Physical & Psychological Readiness: Workshops and sessions for group discussions, psych tests, and CPSS familiarization

• Proven Results & Alumni Network: Significant selections in recent AFCAT cycles, mentorship from selected candidates

• Comprehensive Doubt Support: Dedicated doubt-clearing forums, mentor one-to-one sessions, and weekly performance tracking

• Flexible Modes: Online/live classroom options to suit aspirants regardless of location or schedule

FAQs about AFCAT  1  2026 Notification

Q1. When is the AFCAT 1 2026 notification likely to be released?
Based on past trends, expect the official notification around December 2025, with applications running into January 2026

Q2. What is the application fee?
The standard fee is ₹550 + GST; NCC Special Entry candidates pay no fee 

Q3. Can final-year students apply?
Yes, final-year candidates can apply, provided they complete graduation before joining training and produce documentation at AFSB stage.

Q4. How many attempts are allowed for AFCAT?
There is no limit on attempts as long as candidates meet the age criteria.

Q5. Is there negative marking?
Yes, –1 mark for every incorrect answer in AFCAT, and +3 for each correct response.

Q6. What is EKT and who needs to appear for it?
EKT (Engineering Knowledge Test) is required only for Ground Duty (Technical) branch applicants and is conducted immediately after AFCAT.

FAQs About New Careers Academy AFCAT Coaching

Q1. Does New Careers Academy offer online coaching?
Yes, both live-online and classroom-based batches are available for AFCAT preparation.

Q2. Are interview preparations included?
Yes, coaching includes mock interviews, CPSS familiarization sessions, group discussion drills, and detailed feedback.

Q3. What success rate does New Careers Academy have?
The academy boasts consistent selections in AFCAT across recent batches, with many toppers and first-timers succeeding.

Q4. Do they provide regular doubt-solving support?
Absolutely — they offer dedicated doubt-clearing sessions, topic-wise forums, and individual mentor access.

Q5. Is physical or psychological training provided?
Yes, specific sessions for group activity prep, OIR & PPDT practice, and CPSS simulations are part of the coaching package.

Q6. Are their study materials updated for AFCAT 2026?
Yes — the study modules are revised annually to match the latest AFCAT syllabus, pattern, and question trends.

Conclusion

Stay alert for the official AFCAT  1  2026 notification (likely December 2025), and begin preparation early. A focused strategy—covering AFCAT, EKT (if applicable), and AFSB readiness—can significantly boost your chances of selection. For structured coaching, expert guidance, and proven guidance, New Careers Academy offers a compelling edge. Start early, stay consistent, and aim high!