AFCAT 2 Exam Pattern 2026 and Detailed Syllabus for Flying & Ground Duty Branches
Indian Air Force — Ministry of Defence
📅 Important Dates
| Last Date to Apply | 19 Jun 2026 |
|---|---|
| Fee Payment Deadline | 19 Jun 2026 |
📋 Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Commissioned Officer (Flying and Ground Duty) |
|---|---|
| Total Vacancies | 300 |
| Qualification | Graduate Degree / B.E / B.Tech |
| Age Limit | 20-26 years (approx) |
| Salary | Level 10 (Rs. 56,100 - 1,77,500) |
| Application Fee | Rs. 550 + GST (approx) |
| Selection Process | Written Exam (AFCAT/EKT), AFSB Interview, Medical Examination |
📝 Detailed Notification Information
AFCAT 2 2026 Exam Pattern: Overview
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is the primary gateway for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Air Force as Commissioned Officers in the Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. Understanding the AFCAT 2 2026 exam pattern is the first step toward a successful career in the skies.
AFCAT 2 2026 Exam Highlights
The examination is conducted as an online Computer-Based Test (CBT). For candidates applying for technical roles, an additional Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) is mandatory.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Online (CBT) |
| Number of Questions | 100 (AFCAT) + 50 (EKT for Technical) |
| Total Marks | 300 (AFCAT) + 150 (EKT) |
| Duration | 120 Minutes (AFCAT) + 45 Minutes (EKT) |
| Marking Scheme | +3 for Correct Answer; -1 for Wrong Answer |
Detailed AFCAT Syllabus 2026
The written exam is divided into four major sections. Below is the comprehensive subject-wise breakdown:
1. Verbal Ability in English
Focuses on proficiency in the English language. Key topics include Comprehension, Error Detection, Sentence Completion, Synonyms & Antonyms, Idioms and Phrases, Cloze Test, and One-word Substitution.
2. General Awareness
Covers History, Geography, Indian Polity, Economy, and Basic Science. Candidates must stay updated with Current Affairs, Defence News, National & International Organizations, and Environment & Ecology.
3. Numerical Ability
Tests basic mathematical skills. Includes Decimal Fractions, Time and Work, Average, Profit & Loss, Percentage, Simple & Compound Interest, Ratio & Proportion, and Probability.
4. Reasoning and Military Aptitude
Includes Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, Spatial Ability, and pattern recognition tasks designed to test the candidate's logical thinking and military aptitude.
Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) Pattern
Candidates opting for Technical branches must clear the EKT. This test focuses on core engineering subjects based on the candidate's specialization:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science Engineering
- Electrical & Electronics Engineering
AFCAT 2026 Selection Process
The recruitment follows a multi-stage evaluation to ensure only the best candidates are commissioned:
- Written Examination: Qualifying AFCAT (and EKT where applicable).
- AFSB Testing: Includes Stage 1 (Screening Test) and Stage 2 (Psychological tests, Group Tasks, and Interview).
- Medical Examination: Assessment of physical and medical fitness.
- Final Merit List: Based on performance in the written test and AFSB interview.
Preparation Strategy for AFCAT 2 2026
- Master Accuracy: With a negative marking of -1, avoid guesswork. Focus on high-accuracy sections like Reasoning.
- Mock Tests: Practice online mock tests to improve speed and time management for the 120-minute window.
- Current Affairs: Regularly read news related to the Indian Defence forces and global security.
- EKT Focus: Technical candidates should revise their fundamental engineering concepts from semesters 1 to 8.
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A former Defence aspirant turned career advisor, Amit Singh Chauhan brings deep insider knowledge of Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Railway recruitment processes. He has been guiding candidates for over 10 years.