AFCAT 2025: New Recruitment Opportunity in the Indian Air Force – Application Process & Selection Rules!

AFCAT 2025: is your all-in-one guide to joining the Indian Air Force (IAF) through AFCAT 02/2025. In this friendly yet authoritative article, we’ll break down every detail—eligibility, application steps, exam pattern, and more—in a way that’s simple enough for a 10-year-old to grasp, yet packed with professional insights. Think of this as sitting with a seasoned mentor who’s walked hundreds of candidates through the process: practical advice, clear examples, and accurate data, all designed to boost your confidence and readiness.

Joining the IAF means becoming part of a family dedicated to protecting our skies. You’ll learn leadership skills, work with cutting-edge technology, and forge lifelong friendships. Whether you’re a recent graduate eyeing a technical role or someone evaluating a career shift, this guide will help you navigate every stage— from filling out the online form to acing the final interview. Let’s gear up and take flight!

AFCAT 2025

AFCAT 2025 is more than just an exam; it’s your ticket to a fulfilling career in the Indian Air Force. From the moment the application window opens on June 2, 2025, to standing proud as a Flying Officer at AFA Dundigal, each step demands planning, perseverance, and passion. This guide has covered eligibility, application procedures, exam patterns, AFSB preparation, and training details. We’ve shared practical tips, common pitfalls to avoid, and real-life success stories to inspire you. Remember to balance your studies, fitness routine, and mental well-being. Stay motivated, connect with peers and mentors, and march forward with confidence. The skies await—so aim high, prepare diligently, and let AFCAT 2025 launch your career!

What Is AFCAT 2025?

AFCAT stands for Air Force Common Admission Test, and it’s the gateway to become an officer in the Indian Air Force. AFCAT 02/2025 invites candidates for Short Service Commission (SSC) in both Flying and Ground Duty branches (Technical and Non-Technical).

Passing AFCAT is your first milestone. You’ll take a Computer-Based Test that assesses your general awareness, English, numerical ability, and reasoning. If you’re aiming for a technical role, you’ll also sit for the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) immediately after the main exam.

Example: Imagine tackling a 100-question quiz in two hours—covering everything from world events to math puzzles. That’s AFCAT. If you’re an engineer, you’ll then answer 50 technical questions to prove your subject expertise.

Envision yourself at the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal, Hyderabad, where you’ll spend 52–62 weeks training to become a commissioned officer. Let’s explore why AFCAT 2025 is a golden opportunity and how you can seize it.

Why AFCAT 2025 Is a Great Opportunity

1. Prestige and Pride:
   Joining the IAF means contributing to a legacy dating back to 1932. You wear your uniform with pride, knowing you’re part of an elite force.
2. Comprehensive Skill Development:
   From leadership training to technical mastery, the IAF builds you into a versatile professional. These skills benefit you even if you transition to the civilian sector later.
3. Stable Career and Progression:
   As a Flying Officer, you follow a clear promotion path: Flight Lieutenant, Squadron Leader, Wing Commander, and beyond. Your growth is based on performance, experience, and vacancies.
4. Attractive Benefits:
   • Competitive Pay: ₹ 56,100 per month (during training), with post-commission pay scales higher.
   • Allowances: Dearness Allowance (DA), Kit Maintenance Allowance (KMA), High Altitude Allowance (HAA), Flying Allowance, Transport Allowance.
   • Free Healthcare & Insurance: For you and your family.
   • Accommodation: Comfortable family housing at various bases.
   • Travel Perks: Free train travel for you and your dependents.
5. Adventure and Exposure:
   Fly modern aircraft, work in advanced radar installations, and collaborate with global forces. Explore diverse geographies—from coastal air stations to high-altitude bases.

Pro Tip: If flying isn’t your ultimate passion, there are thrilling roles in Weapon Systems, Logistics, Accounts, Meteorology, and Education. Each role is vital to the IAF’s mission.

Eligibility Criteria

Before you jump into the application, make sure you meet the following requirements:

Nationality and Marital Status

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of India (as per the Citizenship Act, 1955).
• Marital Status:
  • Below 25 years (as of July 1, 2026): Must be unmarried at the time of application and during training. Marriage after applying or during training leads to disqualification.
  • Above 25 years: May apply as married but will not receive married accommodation during training.

Age Limits (as on July 1, 2026)

• Flying Branch:
  • 20–24 years (born between July 2, 2002 and July 1, 2006).
  • Relaxable to 26 years (born between July 2, 2000 and July 1, 2006) for candidates with a valid DGCA-issued Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
• Ground Duty Branches (Technical & Non-Technical):
  • 20–26 years (born between July 2, 2000 and July 1, 2006).

Tip for Young Aspirants: If you plan to get your CPL, you get an extra two years to apply for the Flying Branch.

Educational Qualifications

Flying Branch

• 10+2 with at least 50% marks in Physics and Mathematics, AND
• Graduation (3-year degree) in any discipline with ≥ 60% marks, OR
• B.E./B.Tech (4-year course) with ≥ 60% marks, OR
• Associate Membership of the Institution of Engineers (India) / Aeronautical Society of India (Sections A & B) with ≥ 60% marks.

Example: You’re a Bachelor of Arts graduate with 62%. You must also have 50% in Physics and Maths at 10+2 to qualify for the Flying Branch.

Ground Duty (Technical)

• B.E./B.Tech (4-year Engineering Degree) in relevant disciplines (Mechanical, Electronics, Electrical, Computer Science, etc.) with ≥ 60% marks.

Ground Duty (Non-Technical)

• Administration / Logistics / Accounts:
  • Graduation (3-year degree) with ≥ 60% marks, OR
  • Associate Membership of Institution of Engineers (India) / Aeronautical Society of India with ≥ 60% marks.
• Education:
  • Graduation with ≥ 60% marks, AND
  • Postgraduate Degree (any discipline) with ≥ 50% marks.
• Meteorology:
  • 10+2, AND
  • Postgraduate Degree in specific fields (e.g., Meteorology, Environmental Science, Mathematics, Geophysics, etc.) with ≥ 50% marks.
  • Additionally, you need Physics & Mathematics at graduation with ≥ 55% marks each.

Note: If you aim for the Meteorology branch, plan your undergraduate and postgraduate courses accordingly.

Application Process

The AFCAT 02/2025 application is entirely online. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Visit the Official AFCAT Portal

• Go to the AFCAT Official Website.
• Look for the link “AFCAT 02/2025 Application” once it’s live (from June 2, 2025).

2. Register as a New User

• Click “New User? Register Here”.
• Enter a valid email ID, mobile number, and password.
• Verify your email by clicking the link sent to your inbox.

Tip: Use an email you check regularly. All important communication—admit cards, status updates—will go there.

3. Fill in Personal and Educational Details

• Personal Details: Full name (as per 10th certificate), father’s name, date of birth, marital status, gender, category (General/OBC/SC/ST/EWS), and address.
• Educational Qualifications:
  • Enter details of 10th, 12th, and Graduation/Postgraduate (board/university, year, percentage).
  • Technical Branch aspirants must specify their engineering discipline and specialization.

Reminder: Double-check spellings, percentages, and registration numbers to avoid discrepancies.

4. Upload Scanned Documents

Ensure all files meet size and format requirements:

• Passport-size Photograph (JPEG, 10–20 KB)
• Signature (JPEG, 2–5 KB)
• 10th, 12th, Graduation Certificates (PDF/JPEG)
• CPL Certificate (if applying via CPL route)
• Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS)
• Domicile & Identity Proof (Aadhar Card/Passport, JPEG/PDF)
• Medical Certificates (if you have any minor corrective treatment, e.g., glasses)

Quick Check: Before uploading, right-click the file → Properties (Windows) or Get Info (Mac) to confirm file size and format.

5. Select Exam City Preferences

• You can choose up to five exam cities (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai).
• The final exam city will be allocated based on seat availability.

Hint: Always include a major metro city as a backup in case your preferred choice is full.

6. Pay the Application Fee

• General/OBC/EWS: ₹ 649 (inclusive of service charges)
• SC/ST/Ex-servicemen/Wards of War Widows: Exempted
• Payment Modes: Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI (e.g., PhonePe, Google Pay).
• Save the transaction receipt for future reference.

Reminder: If payment fails, wait 24 hours for the transaction to reflect. Don’t retry immediately; contact the helpline if needed.

7. Review and Submit

• Preview your entire application for errors.
• Click “Submit” and download/print the confirmation page and fee receipt.

Checklist: Make sure you receive a confirmation email/SMS with your application number and exam city details.

Selection Process

The AFCAT 02/2025 selection happens in three stages: Stage I – Computer-Based Test (AFCAT & EKT), Stage II – AFSB Interview, and Stage III – Medical Examination.

Stage I: Computer-Based Test (AFCAT & EKT)

AFCAT Exam (All Branches)

• Total Questions: 100 (300 marks)
• Sections:
  1. General Awareness (20 questions): Current affairs, history, geography, basic science, defense.
  2. Verbal Ability in English (25 questions): Grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension.
  3. Numerical Ability (25 questions): Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data interpretation.
  4. Reasoning & Military Aptitude Test (25 questions): Puzzles, series, analogies, pattern recognition.
  5. Basic Service-Related Questions (5 questions): Physical fitness, military knowledge.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Scoring: +3 for correct, –1 for wrong, 0 for unattempted.
• Approximate Cut-off: 150–165/300 (varies by cycle).

Strategy: Start with General Awareness and English—they’re scoring and help build momentum.

Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) (Technical Candidates)

• Total Questions: 50 (50 marks)
• Duration: 45 minutes (immediately after AFCAT in the same session)
• Syllabus Depends on Discipline:
  • AE (Electronics): Electronic devices, analog/digital circuits, signals & systems, control systems, electromagnetics.
  • AE (Mechanical): Engineering mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, strength of materials, manufacturing processes.
  • AE (Computer Science): Data structures, operating systems, computer networks, programming concepts, database management.

Pro Tip: Solve previous year EKT papers to understand question patterns. Focus on core concepts rather than advanced research topics.

Stage II: Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview

Candidates who clear AFCAT (and EKT, if applicable) will be called to one of the five AFSB centres:

1. Dehradun
2. Mysuru
3. Gandhinagar
4. Varanasi
5. Guwahati

AFSB Stage I (Screening)

1. Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test:
   • A timed paper on verbal and non-verbal reasoning (approximately 40–50 questions).
   • Example: Analogies, series completion, pattern puzzles.
2. Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PP&DT):
   • You view a blurred image for 30 seconds.
   • Write a brief story in 4 minutes.
   • Participate in a group discussion (8–10 candidates).
   • Evaluates creativity, teamwork, and communication skills.
3. Result:
   • Only those who clear Stage I move to Stage II. Others are sent home.

Tip: In PP&DT, focus on crafting a coherent story and speaking confidently in the group. There’s no single “right” answer; clarity matters most.

AFSB Stage II (Detailed Testing; 5 Days)

1. Psychological Tests (Day 1):
   • Thematic Apperception Test (TAT): Write a story based on pictures.
   • Word Association Test (WAT): First thought that comes to mind for displayed words.
   • Situation Reaction Test (SRT): Provide quick responses to everyday scenarios.
   • Self-Description Test (SDT): Describe your strengths, weaknesses, achievements.
2. Group Tests (Days 2 & 3):
   • Group Discussion (GD): Discuss a current topic (e.g., “Role of Artificial Intelligence in Defence”).
   • Group Planning Exercise (GPE): Plan a task with limited resources (e.g., crossing a river with given items).
   • Progressive Group Task (PGT): Build a structure using blocks within a time limit.
   • Half Group Task (HGT) & Leaderless Group Task (LGT): Problem-solving as a team without a designated leader.
3. Personal Interview (Days 4 & 5):
   • One-on-one interview with a Group Testing Officer (GTO) and an Interviewing Officer.
   • Topics: Officer-Like-Qualities (OLQs), academic background, current affairs, hobbies, motivation to join the IAF.
4. Computerized Pilot Selection System (CPSS) (Flying Branch Only):
   • Conducted using a computer and a joystick.
   • Tests psychomotor skills, eye-hand-foot coordination.

Practice Tip: For GD, actively listen and contribute. Help others speak, and build on their ideas. In interviews, speak honestly—if you don’t know something, it’s better to admit it than guess incorrectly.

AFSB Final Result

• Candidates receive one of three statuses: “Recommended”, “Not Recommended”, or “Temp Recommended”.
• Only Recommended candidates proceed to Stage III – Medical Examination.
• Temp Recommended candidates may need medical treatment and a re-evaluation.

Stage III: Medical Examination

This final stage is conducted at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment (AFCME), New Delhi, or designated IAF Selection Centres. The medical standards are stringent:

Visual Standards

• Flying Branch:
  • Distant Vision: Uncorrected 6/6 both eyes.
  • Near Vision: N6 both eyes.
  • Hypermetropia: Up to +0.75 DS (permissible after cycloplegic refraction).
• Ground Duty Branches:
  • Distant Vision: 6/36 (each eye), correctable to 6/6.
  • Near Vision: N6.
  • Color Vision: CP-III (Ground Duty); CP-I (Flying).

Physical Measurements

• Height:
  • Flying Branch: ≥ 162.5 cm (men & women).
  • Ground Duty Technical: ≥ 157 cm (men), ≥ 152 cm (women).
  • Ground Duty Non-Technical: Similar criteria with minor variations.
• Chest Expansion: Minimum 5 cm after deep inspiration and expiration.
• Weight: Must be proportionate to height and age (as per IAF BMI charts).

General Health

• No major surgeries (unless fully healed and certified fit).
• No chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, hypertension).
• No hernias or major pathologies.
• Dental Health: No untreated cavities or gum issues.
• Orthopedic: Full range of motion; no significant deformities.

Pre-Medical Tip: Schedule a preliminary health check-up—visit an ophthalmologist, dentist, and a general physician two months before the official medical exam. This helps catch minor issues early.

Exam Pattern and Syllabus Details

Understanding the AFCAT and EKT syllabi is key to targeted preparation. Here’s a concise breakdown:

AFCAT Syllabus Breakdown

Study Hack: Create flashcards for defense-related facts, daily current affairs, and vocabulary words. Review them for 15–20 minutes each evening.

EKT Syllabus Highlights (Technical Candidates)

AE (Electronics)

• Electronic Devices & Circuits: Diodes, Transistors, Amplifiers
• Analog & Digital Electronics: Op-Amps, Logic Gates, Flip-Flops
• Signals & Systems: Time & Frequency Domains, Fourier Transforms
• Control Systems Basics: Feedback, Stability, Transfer Functions
• Electromagnetics: Transmission Lines, Waveguides, Antennas

AE (Mechanical)

• Engineering Mechanics: Statics, Dynamics, Kinematics
• Strength of Materials: Stress-Strain, Bending, Deflection
• Thermodynamics: Laws, Carnot Cycle, Rankine Cycle
• Fluid Mechanics: Continuity Equation, Bernoulli’s Theorem, Flow Measurement
• Manufacturing Processes: Casting, Welding, Machining, Material Science

AE (Computer Science)

• Data Structures: Arrays, Linked Lists, Stacks, Queues, Trees
• Operating Systems: Processes, Scheduling, Memory Management, Deadlock
• Computer Networks: OSI & TCP/IP Models, Routing, Switching
• Programming Concepts: C/C++ Basics, Java Fundamentals, Algorithms
• Database Management Systems: ER Diagrams, Normalization, SQL Queries

Pro Tip: Solve 5–10 EKT practice papers during weekends. Time yourself to simulate exam conditions and improve speed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even well-prepared aspirants can slip up. Here are common pitfalls and how to sidestep them:

1. Incomplete Application:
   • Mistake: Missing uploads (e.g., forgetting to upload CPL certificate if applying under the CPL route).
   • Fix: Create a checklist of required documents and tick them off as you upload.
2. Typographical Errors:
   • Mistake: Misspelling your name or entering incorrect birthdate/percentages.
   • Fix: Cross-verify each detail with your official certificates. Ask a friend to proofread.
3. Last-Minute Fitness Preparation:
   • Mistake: Starting PFT training only a month before the exam.
   • Fix: Begin a basic running and calisthenics routine 3–4 months in advance—jog 3 km daily, gradually increasing to 6 km.
4. Neglecting Current Affairs:
   • Mistake: Focusing solely on Maths and English, overlooking General Awareness.
   • Fix: Read The Hindu or The Indian Express daily. Summarize key news points in a notebook.
5. Ignoring AFSB Group Tasks:
   • Mistake: Preparing only for written exams and ignoring AFSB group exercises.
   • Fix: Join a mock AFSB workshop, practice group discussions, and hone teamwork skills.
6. Underestimating Medical Standards:
   • Mistake: Assuming minor health issues won’t matter (e.g., mild myopia).
   • Fix: Get a full medical check-up (eye, dental, general health) two months before the official medical exam.
7. Poor Time Management During Exam:
   • Mistake: Spending too much time on difficult questions early on.
   • Fix: Allocate time: 12 minutes for General Awareness, 15 minutes for English, 15 minutes for Numerical Ability, 18 minutes for Reasoning & Military Aptitude, and 20 minutes for Service-Related Questions.

Career Prospects & Benefits in Detail

A career in the IAF goes beyond exciting flying missions. Here’s an in-depth look at the perks and progression:

1. Salary and Allowances

• During Training (AFA Dundigal):
  • Flying & Technical: ₹ 56,100 per month (Basic Pay).
  • Non-Technical: ₹ 56,100 per month (Basic Pay).
• Post-Commission (Flying Officer, Pay Level 10):
  • Basic Pay: Starts at ₹ 56,100.
  • Dearness Allowance (DA): Revised quarterly.
  • Kit Maintenance Allowance (KMA): Monthly stipend for uniforms and gear.
  • High Altitude Allowance (HAA): For officers posted in high-altitude areas.
  • Flying Allowance: For pilots, based on flying hours.
  • Transport Allowance: Varies by city of posting.

Reference: Detailed pay scales available on the Indian Air Force Pay Scales page.

2. Promotion Path & Tenure

• Flying Officer (0–2 years)
• Flight Lieutenant (2–6 years)
• Squadron Leader (6–13 years)
• Wing Commander (13–20 years)
• Group Captain (20+ years)
• Air Commodore and above (Senior command roles based on performance and vacancies)

Insight: Excelling as a pilot could see you leading a fighter squadron by the time you reach Wing Commander (around 10–12 years of service).

3. Training & Skill Development

• Military Education:
  • Courses at AFA Dundigal (leadership, air power, strategy).
  • Technical workshops in maintenance, avionics, and weapon systems.
  • Non-Technical courses in management, logistics, and administration.
• Secondments & Attachments:
  • Opportunities to train with foreign air forces (RAF, USAF, French Air Force) under bilateral exchanges.
  • Participation in NATO exercises, Red Flag (US), and Exercise Garuda (Indo-French).

Example: A Mechanical Engineer in AE (R&D) might collaborate with DRDO or ADA on indigenous programs like Tejas.

4. Lifestyle & Postings

• Station Life:
  • Comfortable officers’ mess, recreational facilities (gyms, swimming pools), AC accommodations in peace stations.
  • Vibrant base communities with social events, sporting tournaments, and festivals.
• Field Postings:
  • Unique challenges—extreme weather, limited facilities—but foster resilience and camaraderie.
  • Locations include Leh, A&N Islands, Siachen, and more.
• Family Life:
  • Post-marriage, spouse accommodation is provided, and children attend Sainik Schools or Kendriya Vidyalayas nearby.

Personal Note: Many officers recall their field postings, especially in Leh, as life-changing—building character, mental toughness, and strong bonds.

5. Retirement Benefits & Civilian Opportunities

• Pension: Officers become eligible under the Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS) after 15 years of service.
• Medical & Housing: Lifetime medical coverage in military hospitals; access to ex-servicemen housing.
• Transition to Civilian Roles: Jobs in defense industries, academia, security consultancy, or government departments (e.g., Ministry of Defence, DRDO, etc.).

Example: A retired Wing Commander with avionics expertise might join HAL or Tata Advanced Systems as a senior engineer.

Life at Air Force Academy & Beyond

Once you clear AFCAT 02/2025 and the AFSB, you’ll report to AFA Dundigal in July 2026. Here’s what awaits:

Air Force Academy (AFA) Dundigal

• Location: Hyderabad, Telangana—beautiful weather and excellent facilities.
• Infrastructure:
  • Academic Blocks: Classrooms, simulators, language labs.
  • Flying Training Wing: HJT-16 jet trainers, advanced simulators.
  • Residential Quarters: Shared rooms (6–8 cadets) with attached mess and recreational areas.
  • Sports Complex: Gymnasium, basketball court, football ground, swimming pool.
  • Obstacle Course: Designed to build stamina and mental toughness.

Training Phases

Flying & Ground Duty (Technical) – 62 Weeks

1. Phase I (Foundation Course – 14 Weeks):
   • Physical training, drills, and academic subjects (Air Power Studies, Aviation English, Leadership).
2. Phase II (Basic Stage – 20 Weeks):
   • Flying: Initial flights on HJT-16, basic maneuvers, solo sorties.
   • Technical: Workshop training—engine maintenance, avionics labs.
3. Phase III (Advanced Stage – 28 Weeks):
   • Flying: Advanced aerial maneuvers, instrument flying, navigation.
   • Technical: Specialized modules—AE Electronics learning radar systems; AE Mechanical focusing on engine diagnostics.

Ground Duty (Non-Technical) – 52 Weeks

• Administration & Logistics: Management principles, supply chain modules, inventory control.
• Accounts: Defense accounting systems, financial regulations, auditing practices.
• Meteorology: Advanced atmospheric physics, weather forecasting, satellite data interpretation.
• Education: Pedagogy, curriculum development, educational administration for IAF schools.

Tip: Build camaraderie early by joining team sports and participating in group activities. AFA tests both physical endurance and mental toughness.

Post-Training Posting

• Flying Officers: Posted to fighter squadrons, transport commands, or helicopter units based on performance and vacancies.
• Technical Officers: Assigned to Maintenance Units (MUs), AES depots, or R&D establishments (e.g., DRDO, ADA).
• Non-Technical Officers: Posted to Station HQ, Logistic Commands, DEPOT Units, or Meteorological Stations across India.

Advice: Volunteer for operational squadrons early if you want to maximize flying hours. Take advantage of advanced courses (e.g., Post-Solo Flying, Special Mission Aircraft training).

Success Stories & Testimonials

Reading about real journeys can spark motivation. Here are some inspiring examples:

• Case Study 1: Shreyasi (AE – Electronics)
  • Background: Electronics graduate with 65%. Struggled in Reasoning.
  • Approach: Daily reasoning quizzes, YouTube tutorials on puzzles, group problem-solving.
  • Outcome: Scored 85% in AFCAT Reasoning, cleared AFSB in Gandhinagar, now posted at a radar station in Jammu & Kashmir.
  • Lesson: Consistent practice and peer discussion can build strong reasoning skills.
• Case Study 2: Arjun (Flying Branch – Non-CPL)
  • Background: Commerce graduate, 58% in 10+2 (barely met Physics/Math criteria).
  • Approach: Focused on Current Affairs and English, spent 4 months on PFT (running and calisthenics).
  • Outcome: Scored 160/300 in AFCAT, aced CPSS in Dehradun, now flying fighters in Ambala.
  • Lesson: Excelling in key sections and maintaining fitness can compensate for weaker academic subjects.
• Case Study 3: Priya (Ground Duty – Accounts)
  • Background: B.Com graduate with 62%, initially unsure about military life.
  • Approach: Connected with IAF alumni on LinkedIn, attended local IAF awareness camps, visited an IAF station.
  • Outcome: Clarified career goals, excelled in AFCAT, now posted as an Accounts Officer at a Maintenance Unit in Gujarat.
  • Lesson: Engaging with current officers and visiting bases provides real insights and motivation.

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Practical Tips for AFCAT Aspirants

1. Create a Structured Study Plan:
   • Allocate 2–3 hours daily for AFCAT subjects.
   • Reserve one day each week for EKT if you’re a Technical aspirant.
2. Leverage Official Resources:
   • Download the AFCAT syllabus PDF from the AFCAT Official Website.
   • Refer to the IAF’s recruitment brochure for detailed medical standards: IAF Recruitment.
3. Daily Current Affairs Routine:
   • Read The Hindu or The Indian Express each morning.
   • Summarize 5–6 key news points in a notebook (defense, economy, sports).
   • Watch a 10-minute daily news roundup on YouTube (e.g., InsightsIAS Daily Current Affairs).
4. Fitness & Health:
   • Start with a 3 km jog and gradually build up to 6 km in under 28 minutes.
   • Incorporate push-ups, sit-ups, and squats—aim for 15 push-ups, 20 sit-ups, and 25 squats by exam day.
   • Maintain a balanced diet—protein-rich foods, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Avoid junk food to keep your weight optimal.
5. AFSB Preparation:
   • Join a mock AFSB workshop in major cities.
   • Practice group discussions on topics like “Self-Reliance in Defence Production” or “Space Technology in Military Applications.”
   • Work on public speaking—record yourself and analyze body language, tone, and clarity.
6. Medical Readiness:
   • If you wear glasses, switch to contact lenses a few weeks before medical exams to adjust.
   • Get a dental check-up to address cavities or gum issues.
   • Check for any minor hernias or skin conditions and get them treated early.
7. Organize Documents:
   • Keep originals and photocopies of all certificates in a file labeled “AFCAT Documents.”
   • Create a PDF folder on your computer with scans named logically (e.g., 10th_Marksheet.pdf, OBC_Certificate.pdf).
8. Maintain Balance:
   • Join online forums (e.g., Reddit’s r/IndianAirForce) to connect with aspirants and officers.
   • Take short breaks—listen to music, meditate, or take a brisk walk.
   • Celebrate small wins—completing a mock test, hitting a new run milestone.
9. Financial Planning:
   • Allocate funds for exam center travel, AFSB stay, and pre-medical check-ups.
   • Post-selection, most training costs are covered, but initial expenses are yours.
10. Have a Backup Plan:
    • If AFCAT doesn’t work out, consider NCC Special Entry (for Flying Branch).
    • Explore CDS or NDA routes if you meet age and educational criteria.

FAQs

Q1. What is the application fee, and how can I pay it?
A: The fee for General/OBC/EWS is ₹ 649 (inclusive of service charges). SC/ST/Ex-servicemen/Wards of War Widows are exempted. Payment options: Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI. After payment, download the receipt for your records.

Q2. Can final-year students apply for AFCAT 2025?
A: Yes, final-year students can apply if they provide proof of passing with ≥ 60% marks by July 1, 2026. Upload your final-year mark sheet or provisional certificate by that date.

Q3. How do I choose my exam center, and what if my chosen city is unavailable?
A: You can select up to five exam cities in preference order. If your first choice is full, the system assigns the next available city. Always list a major metro as backup.

Q4. What does the AFCAT General Awareness syllabus include?
A: General Awareness covers National & International Current Affairs, History, Geography, Basic Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), Defence Knowledge, Sports, Awards & Honors, and Books & Authors. Download the detailed syllabus from the AFCAT Official Website.

Q5. How many questions must I score correctly to clear AFCAT?
A: With +3 for correct answers and –1 for wrong ones, aim for around 150–165/300 to clear the cut-off. Prioritize accuracy over guessing.

Q6. Which documents are required for the AFSB interview?
A: Carry originals of:

• Printed AFCAT Admit Card
• AFCAT & EKT Scorecards
• 10th/12th/Graduation Certificates
• Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS)
• Identity Proof (Aadhar Card/Passport)
• Character Certificate from school/college
• Any other documents mentioned in the call letter.

Q7. Is there a relaxation in medical standards for minor refractive errors?
A:

• Flying Branch: Uncorrected 6/6 vision mandatory; hypermetropia permissible up to +0.75 DS after cycloplegic refraction.
• Ground Duty Branches: Myopia ≤ –1.5 DS (no cylinder), hypermetropia ≤ +3.5 DS (no cylinder), color vision CP-III acceptable.