The AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) is a prestigious national-level exam conducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to recruit candidates for Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. Known for its prestige, pay scale, and pride of service, the AFCAT exam attracts thousands of aspirants each year.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the AFCAT exam, including its eligibility, syllabus, exam pattern, preparation strategy, and FAQs.
🔹 What is AFCAT?
AFCAT is an entrance exam held twice a year (AFCAT 1 & AFCAT 2) to select Class 1 Gazetted Officers in the Indian Air Force. Conducted by the IAF itself, it offers one of the most exciting career opportunities for those passionate about serving the nation.
🔹 AFCAT 2025 Exam Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) |
| Conducting Body | Indian Air Force |
| Frequency | Twice a year (Feb & Aug) |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Duration | 2 Hours (120 minutes) |
| Language | English |
| Official Website | https://afcat.cdac.in |
🔹 AFCAT Eligibility Criteria
✈️ Flying Branch
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Age: 20 to 24 years
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Qualification: Graduation (min. 60%) + 10+2 with Physics & Maths
⚙️ Ground Duty (Technical)
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Age: 20 to 26 years
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Qualification: Engineering degree in relevant discipline
🗂️ Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
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Age: 20 to 26 years
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Qualification: Graduation (min. 60%) in any discipline
✅ Both men and women can apply for all branches (depending on vacancy).
🔹 AFCAT Exam Pattern
✅ For All Candidates (Except EKT)
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General Awareness – 25 questions
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Verbal Ability in English – 25 questions
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Numerical Ability – 18 questions
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Reasoning and Military Aptitude – 32 questions
🕒 Total Time: 2 Hours
📊 Total Marks: 300
✅ EKT (Engineering Knowledge Test) – For Technical Branch
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Subjects: Mechanical, Computer Science, Electrical, etc.
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🕒 Time: 45 minutes
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📊 Marks: 150
🔹 AFCAT Syllabus Overview
📘 General Awareness
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History, Geography, Civics, Indian Polity, Environment, Current Affairs, Defence, Sports
📗 Verbal Ability (English)
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Comprehension, Error Detection, Synonyms/Antonyms, Idioms/Phrases
📙 Numerical Ability
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Profit & Loss, Speed & Distance, Time & Work, Averages, Percentages
📕 Reasoning & Military Aptitude
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Verbal and Non-verbal reasoning, Spatial ability, Picture completion, Odd one out
🔹 How to Prepare for AFCAT Exam
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📅 Make a Study Plan: Divide topics week-wise and set clear goals.
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📚 Use Standard AFCAT Books: Refer to books like Arihant AFCAT, Lucent GK, Word Power Made Easy for English.
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🧠 Revise Regularly: Create short notes for last-minute revision.
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⏱️ Practice Mock Tests: Attempt online mock tests to improve speed & accuracy.
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📰 Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Read newspapers like The Hindu or use monthly current affairs PDFs.
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🏋️♂️ Prepare for AFSB Interview: If you clear the written test, start preparing for the AFSB (Air Force Selection Board) interview – which tests personality, leadership, and physical fitness.
🔹 Why Choose a Career through AFCAT?
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🛩️ Serve in Indian Air Force
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💼 Job Security and Prestige
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💰 Attractive Pay & Perks
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🏖️ Subsidized Housing, Education, Medical
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🌍 Opportunity to Travel & Learn
🔹 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How many times is AFCAT conducted in a year?
🔸 Twice – usually in February and August.
Q2. Is there any negative marking in AFCAT?
🔸 Yes, 1 mark is deducted for every wrong answer.
Q3. Can girls apply for AFCAT?
🔸 Absolutely! Female candidates are eligible for Flying and Ground Duty branches.
Q4. How many attempts are allowed for AFCAT?
🔸 There’s no official limit. You can attempt as long as you meet the age and eligibility criteria.
The AFCAT exam is your gateway to a proud, challenging, and adventurous career in the Indian Air Force. With consistent preparation, clear goals, and a strong mindset, you can clear AFCAT in your first attempt. Begin your preparation today, and soar high with the Indian Air Force!