The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to release the AFCAT 1 Notification 2025 on December 1, 2024, inviting applications from eligible candidates who aspire to join as Class-I Gazetted Officers in the Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. This AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) notification outlines all essential details for candidates aiming for these prestigious positions. In this blog, we’ll cover all aspects of AFCAT 2025 Exam Date in detail, ensuring you’re ready for the application and selection process.
AFCAT 1 2025 Overview
AFCAT, conducted twice a year by the IAF, is a national-level examination that opens doors for young, unmarried Indian men and women to serve as officers in the Air Force. AFCAT 1/2025 will be conducted in February 2025, and those who qualify will join courses starting in January 2026. This recruitment drive offers Short Service Commission (SSC) positions in both Flying and Ground Duty branches, with a selection process including a written test, AFSB Interview, and Medical Examination.
AFCAT 2025 Exam Date
| Events | Dates |
| Notification Release Date | 1st December 2024 |
| Online Application Start Date | 1st December 2024 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30th December 2024 |
| AFCAT 1 Exam Date | February 2025 |
AFCAT 1 2025 Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for AFCAT 1/2025 encompass educational qualifications, age limits, and other requirements. Here’s a breakdown:
- Educational Qualifications
- Flying Branch : Minimum 50% marks in Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level, plus a three-year graduation degree or BE/BTech with 60% or more from a recognized university.
- Ground Duty (Technical) : Degree in engineering or technology with at least 60% marks, along with 10+2 level marks of 60% in both Physics and Mathematics.
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Graduation in any discipline with a minimum of 60% marks from a recognized university.
2. Age Limits
- Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years (born between 02/01/2002 and 01/01/2006).
- Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical): 20 to 26 years (born between 02/01/2000 and 01/01/2006).
3. Marital Status
- Candidates must be unmarried when they join, and marriage is not allowed during the training period.
4. Nationality
- Candidates must be Indian citizens as per the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955.
AFCAT 1 2025 Application Process
The online application form for AFCAT 1/2025 will be available on the official website, www.afcat.cdac.in, from December 1, 2024. The last date to complete the registration is December 30, 2024. A non-refundable application fee of Rs. 550 (plus GST) is required, except for NCC special entry candidates. Payments can be made through debit/credit card or net banking.
AFCAT 1 2025 Selection Process
The AFCAT 1/2025 selection process is divided into three key stages:
- Written Exam
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Maximum marks | 300 |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Negative Marking | 1 mark for each incorrect answer |
| Sections | General Awareness, Verbal Ability in English, Numerical Ability, Reasoning, and Military Aptitude |
2. AFSB Interview
- Shortlisted candidates from the online test will be called for the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview, a comprehensive assessment round.
3. Medical Examination
- The medical examination is conducted at specified centers: Institute of Aviation Medicine (Bengaluru) and Air Force Central Medical Establishment (AFCME) for a thorough health assessment.
AFCAT 1 2025 Exam Pattern
AFCAT 1/2025 consists of 100 questions, each worth 3 marks, and covers General Awareness, English, Numerical Ability, and Military Aptitude. There is a penalty of 1 mark for every wrong answer. Candidates must prepare for a range of subjects to perform well.
AFCAT 1 2025 Salary Structure and Allowances
A career in the Indian Air Force is not only rewarding but also well-compensated. Here’s a look at the pay structure:
| Rank | Level | Pay Scale |
| Flying Officer | Level 10 | Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 1,77,500 |
| Flight Lieutenant | Level 10B | Rs. 61,300 to Rs. 1,93,900 |
| Squadron Leader | Level 11 | Rs. 69,400 to Rs. 2,07,200 |
| Wing Commander | Level 12A | Rs. 1,21,200 to Rs. 2,12,400 |
| Group Captain | Level 13 | 1,30,600 to Rs. 2,15,900 |
| Air Commodore | Level 13A | Rs. 1,39,600 to Rs. 2,17,600 |
| Air Vice Marsha | Level 14 | Rs. 1,44,200 to Rs. 2,18,200 |
| Air Marshal (HAG Scale) | Level 15 | Rs. 1,82,200 to Rs. 2,24,100 |
| VACS/Airforce Cdr/Air Marshal (NFSG) | fixed, Level 17 | Rs. 2,25,000 |
| CAS (Chief of the Air Staff) | fixed, Level 18 | Rs. 2,50,000 |
AFCAT1 2025 Vacancy
AFCAT 1/2025 vacancies will cover the Flying Branch and Ground Duty branches (Technical and Non-Technical). Detailed vacancy information will be available in the AFCAT 1/2025 notification PDF on December 1, 2024.
Why AFCAT?
The AFCAT exam is a golden opportunity for young Indians to serve their nation with pride in the Air Force. With structured training, a prestigious role, and excellent pay and allowances, AFCAT continues to be one of the most sought-after exams for defense aspirants.
Conclusion
AFCAT 1 2025 offers a pathway to a promising career in the Indian Air Force for eligible unmarried candidates. Whether you’re passionate about flying or wish to contribute through ground duties, this exam opens doors to fulfill your ambitions. Mark your calendars, get ready for December 1, 2024, and start preparing to achieve your dreams with the Indian Air Force!