Exam guide · Entrance Exams
AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test)
AFCAT is conducted by the Indian Air Force for officer entry into its flying, ground duty (technical) and ground duty (non-technical) branches. It is followed by the Air Force Selection Board interview and medical tests.
- Conducted by
- Indian Air Force, usually twice a year
- Branches
- Flying, ground duty (technical), ground duty (non-technical)
- Eligibility
- Graduation with branch-specific requirements
- Next stage
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB)
About the exam
AFCAT is open to men and women, with branch-specific education and age limits. The flying branch has strict medical standards and includes a computerised pilot selection system at the AFSB. See Commercial Pilot.
Who takes this exam
- Graduates interested in Air Force officer careers
- Engineering graduates for technical branches
Eligibility (general)
- Graduation with minimum marks; Physics and Mathematics at Class 12 for flying branch
- Engineering degree for technical branches
- Age and medical conditions
Exam pattern
| Feature | In recent years |
|---|---|
| Sections | General awareness, verbal ability in English, numerical ability, reasoning and military aptitude |
| Mode | Computer-based |
| Technical entry | Additional engineering knowledge test |
Syllabus overview
General awareness, English, Class 10 level maths and reasoning.
Want help applying this to your own situation? Guidance for College Students on the Career Captain website.
Courses and institutions it leads to
Air Force Academy and training establishments.
How the process usually works
- Apply onlineChoose branch.
- Take AFCATComputer-based.
- AFSBTesting and interview.
- Medical and merit listFinal selection.
How to prepare
- Practise reasoning and mathsSpeed matters.
- Prepare for AFSBPsychological tests and group tasks.
After the result
Selected candidates train at the Air Force Academy before commissioning.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring medical standards for the flying branch
Alternatives and backup options
- CDS
- NDA
- Commercial aviation — see Commercial Pilot
Frequently asked questions
Can I become an Air Force pilot through AFCAT?
Yes, through the flying branch, if you meet education, age and medical requirements.
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