All You Need to Know About AFCAT 1 2025 Exam Date, Eligibility & Pattern

The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is a national-level competitive exam conducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF). It is the gateway for eligible candidates—both men and women—to join the Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches of the IAF. Conducted twice a year—AFCAT 1 (February session) and AFCAT 2 (August session)—this exam offers a prestigious opportunity for those aspiring to serve the nation with pride and professionalism.

Eligibility Criteria for AFCAT 1 2025

Nationality:

Must be a citizen of India.

Age Limit:

Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years as of 1st January 2026 (born between 2nd January 2002 to 1st January 2006).

Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical): 20 to 26 years as of 1st January 2026.

Educational Qualification:

Flying Branch: Graduation (minimum three-year degree) with minimum 60% marks and passed Maths & Physics in 10+2 or BE/B.Tech with 60% marks.

Ground Duty (Technical):

Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics): Minimum 60% marks in Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level and a four-year degree in engineering/technology.

Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical): As above, with relevant engineering streams.

Ground Duty (Non-Technical):

Graduation in any discipline with 60% marks.

Important Dates for AFCAT 1 2025

AFCAT 1 2025 Exam Pattern

The AFCAT 1 2025 exam will be conducted online and consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). There are two papers—AFCAT and EKT (Engineering Knowledge Test) for technical candidates.

For All Candidates (AFCAT Paper):

Total Questions: 100

Total Marks: 300

Duration: 2 hours

Subjects:

General Awareness

Verbal Ability in English

Numerical Ability

Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test

For Technical Candidates (EKT):

Total Questions: 50

Total Marks: 150

Duration: 45 minutes

Subjects: Based on engineering discipline (Mechanical, Computer Science, Electrical & Electronics)

Marking Scheme:

Correct Answer: +3 marks

Wrong Answer: -1 mark

Unattempted: No marks

Syllabus Highlights

General Awareness:

Current Affairs, History, Geography, Civics, Politics, Environment, Defense, Art & Culture, Sports

English:

Comprehension, Error Detection, Antonyms/Synonyms, Vocabulary, Idioms & Phrases

Numerical Ability:

Decimal & Fraction, Time & Work, Percentages, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion, Simple Interest

Reasoning and Military Aptitude:

Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, Spatial Ability

EKT (for Technical Branch):

Engineering Mathematics, Applied Sciences, and discipline-specific core subjects.

How to Apply for AFCAT 1 2025: Step-by-Step

Visit the official AFCAT portal (details shared in notification).

Register with a valid email ID and mobile number.

Login using the registration credentials.

Fill the application form with personal, educational, and communication details.

Upload scanned documents including photograph, signature, and thumb impression.

Select the exam center as per your preference.

Pay the application fee (around ₹250 for AFCAT entry).

Submit the application and download the confirmation page.

Tips for AFCAT 1 2025 Preparation

Understand the Syllabus: Focus on your weaker sections early.

Practice Previous Papers: They help identify the types of questions asked.

Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to improve speed and accuracy.

Time Management: Divide daily study slots between subjects and revision.

Read Newspapers & Magazines: Especially for current affairs and vocabulary.

Revision Notes: Create concise notes for last-minute revision.

FAQ for afcat 1 2025 exam date

Q1. What is the official afcat 1 2025 exam date?

The exam is expected to be held in the 3rd or 4th week of February 2025, as per the tentative schedule.

Q2. When will the application process for AFCAT 1 2025 begin?

The application process is expected to start on 1st December 2024.

Q3. Is there any age relaxation for AFCAT 2025?

There is no general age relaxation. However, candidates with valid and current Commercial Pilot License (CPL) issued by DGCA (India) may get age relaxation for the Flying Branch.

Q4. Can final-year students apply for AFCAT 1 2025?

Yes, final-year students can apply, provided they produce their degree certificates before the cutoff date specified in the notification.

Q5. What is the mode of the AFCAT 1 2025 examination?

The exam will be conducted in online (computer-based) mode across various centers in India.