Here are the key details for the Indian Air Force (IAF) recruitment for officers via the AFCAT 1/2026 drive (total approx 340 posts) — notification published around 21 November 2025.
Overview
Recruitment for Grant of Short Service Commission (SSC) in Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) branches.
Total vacancies: 340 posts.
Online application window: 17 November 2025 to 14 December 2025.
Course commencement: January 2027 (for those selected) via this entry.
Eligibility Highlights
Flying Branch:
Age: 20-24 years as on 1 January 2027.
Education: 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics + Graduation (with minimum percentage) or BE/BTech with required marks.
Ground Duty (Technical):
Age: 20-26 years as on 1 January 2027.
Education: 10+2 (Physics & Maths) + Engineering degree in relevant branch or equivalent.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical):
Age: Also up to 26 years as on 1 January 2027 for many entries.
Education: Graduation in any discipline (or specific as per branch) with required % marks.
Selection Process
Online written examination (AFCAT) — for ground duty and flying entry.
For those qualifying written exam: Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) assessment including psychological tests, group tasks, interview (for flying branch – CPSS etc) and then medical fitness.
Final merit list & course commencement subject to passing all tests and medical.
Important Notes
Ensure all eligibility criteria (age, education, subject requirements, physical/medical standards) are fulfilled before applying.
The notification requires careful reading of branch-wise details: e.g., flying branch 10+2 physics & maths, technical vs non-tech ground duty have different education criteria.
The deadline is 14 December 2025 (11:59 PM) for applications.
Application portal: official AFCAT website (e.g., afcat.edcil.co.in) — check exact link in the official notification.