AFCAT 2025: Exam Date, Eligibility, Syllabus & How to Apply
Do you dream of soaring through the skies, donning the prestigious blue uniform, and serving the nation? If yes, the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 2025 is your golden opportunity to join the Indian Air Force as a commissioned officer. This competitive exam opens doors to Flying, Technical, and Ground Duty branches, allowing you to be part of one of the most elite forces in the world.
What is AFCAT?
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is conducted twice a year by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to select candidates for Short Service Commission (SSC) in the Flying Branch and both Permanent and Short Service Commissions in Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) branches.
AFCAT is not just an exam; it’s a gateway to an adventurous career filled with honor, discipline, and responsibility. If you have a passion for aviation, technology, or administration, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

AFCAT 2025 Exam Highlights
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Exam Name | Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 2025 |
Conducting Body | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
Exam Frequency | Twice a year (February & August) |
Application Mode | Online |
Exam Mode | Online (CBT – Computer Based Test) |
Eligibility | Graduation (For Flying Branch) & Engineering (For Technical Branch) |
Selection Process | Written Test, AFSB Interview, and Medical Examination |
Job Roles | Flying Officer, Technical Officer, Administrative Officer, Logistics Officer, etc. |
AFCAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria
1. Nationality:
- Candidates must be Indian citizens as per the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955.
2. Age Limit:
- Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years (Born between 2 January 2001 – 1 January 2005).
- Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical): 20 to 26 years (Born between 2 January 1999 – 1 January 2005).
3. Educational Qualifications:
- Flying Branch: Graduation with at least 60% marks and Physics & Maths in Class 12 or B.E./B.Tech.
- Technical Branch: Engineering degree with 60% marks in relevant disciplines.
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Graduation in any discipline with 60% marks.
AFCAT 2025 Exam Pattern
The AFCAT written exam consists of objective-type questions covering four major sections:
Section | Number of Questions | Marks |
General Awareness | 25 | 75 |
Verbal Ability (English) | 25 | 75 |
Numerical Ability | 18 | 54 |
Reasoning & Military Aptitude | 32 | 96 |
Total | 100 | 300 |
- Time Duration: 2 hours
- Marking Scheme: +3 for correct answers, -1 for incorrect answers
For candidates applying for the Technical branch, the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) is also conducted.
How to Apply for AFCAT 2025?
- Visit the official AFCAT website (https://afcat.cdac.in).
- Register with your details and generate login credentials.
- Fill out the AFCAT application form carefully.
- Upload required documents (photograph, signature, academic certificates).
- Pay the application fee online.
- Download and print the confirmation page.
AFCAT 2025 Selection Process
The selection process consists of three stages:
- AFCAT Written Exam
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview
- Stage 1: Officer Intelligence Rating Test, Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PP&DT)
- Stage 2: Psychological Tests, Group Tasks, Personal Interview
- Medical Examination at designated Air Force Medical Centers
Candidates clearing all stages receive the merit list for final selection and training at Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal.
How to Prepare for AFCAT 2025?
1. Understand the Syllabus:
- General Awareness: Current Affairs, History, Geography, Science, Defence, Sports
- English: Grammar, Comprehension, Synonyms, Antonyms
- Numerical Ability: Percentage, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion
- Reasoning & Military Aptitude: Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning, Spatial Ability
2. Best Books for AFCAT Preparation:
- “AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) Guide” by Arihant
- “Let’s Crack AFCAT” by SSB Crack
- “Quantitative Aptitude” by R.S. Aggarwal
3. Regular Mock Tests & Practice:
- Take AFCAT online mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
- Solve previous year’s AFCAT question papers.
4. Stay Physically & Mentally Fit:
- Start running, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
- Practice meditation and confidence-building activities.
Why Join the Indian Air Force?
- Prestigious Career: Get the honor of serving the nation.
- Adventurous Life: From fighter jets to skydiving, your life will be full of excitement.
- High Salary & Perks: Attractive pay, accommodation, medical, and travel benefits.
- Global Exposure: Participate in international missions, training, and collaborations.
Conclusion
AFCAT 2025 is your ticket to an extraordinary career in the Indian Air Force. With the right strategy, dedication, and preparation, you can clear this exam and secure your dream job. Start early, stay consistent, and believe in yourself.
The sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning. Gear up and chase your dreams with AFCAT 2025!