AFCAT Eligibility 2026 requires Indian citizens to meet specific age, educational, and physical criteria set by the Indian Air Force for Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches. Male and female candidates aged 20-24 years (Flying) or 20-26 years (Ground Duty) with the required qualifications can apply.
Overview of AFCAT 2026 Eligibility
Nationality / Citizenship
Candidates must be a citizen of India as per the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955.
AFCAT Age Limit 2026 (as on 01 June 2027)
AFCAT Marital Status
Candidates below 25 years of age must be unmarried at the time of commencement of training. Widows/Widowers and divorcees below 25 years are not eligible. Candidates who marry during training will be discharged and required to refund all government expenditure. Married candidates above 25 years can apply but will not receive married accommodation during training.
AFCAT Educational Qualification 2026
Flying Branch
Ground Duty (Technical) Branch
Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics)
Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical)
Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branches
AFCAT Physical Standards 2026
Height and Weight Standards (Minimum Height)
Note: Weight must be proportionate to height and age. Leg length, sitting height, and thigh length are checked for Flying Branch candidates.
Physical Fitness Requirements
Candidates must maintain good physical condition. Recommended training routine:
- 4 km run in 15 minutes
- Skipping
- 20 Push-ups and 20 Sit-ups (one set)
- 8 Chin-ups
- 3-4 meters Rope Climbing
- 25m Swimming
At SSB Reporting: Candidates should be able to run 1.6 km, perform 10 push-ups, and 3 chin-ups.
Tattoos Policy
Permanent tattoos are not permitted except on the inner face of forearms and reverse side of the palm. Small religious tattoos or names are allowed if not against military discipline. Tribal candidates may get relaxation on a case-by-case basis.
How to Apply for AFCAT 2026
- Visit the official website → careerairforce.gov.in
- Register and fill the online application form
- Upload documents and pay the fee
- Submit and download the confirmation
