The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the complete notification for the second cycle of the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT). This gives aspirants a clear idea of the tentative AFCAT (1) 2027 vacancies.
Interestingly, this time, candidates can also avail permanent commission in non-technical ground duties, which has spiked the interest of many of them. As the applications open today, we share the key details of the AFCAT (1) 2027 with you.
AFCAT (1) 2027 Vacancies
Before the release of the complete notification, the IAF had released a short notification for the exam. However, it did not mention the AFCAT (1) 2027 vacancies, leaving candidates wondering.
However, as per the latest notification for AFCAT (1) 2027, there are about 268 tentative vacancies under AFCAT Entry and GATE Score Entry. These vacancies are distributed across different branches and include opportunities under Permanent Commission (PC) and Short Service Commission (SSC).
Here is the branch-wise vacancy distribution for your convenience:
Candidates should note that the AFCAT (1) 2027 vacancies are tentative and may be revised depending on the operational and organisational requirements of the Indian Air Force.
Male and Female Vacancy Distribution
The current recruitment cycle provides opportunities for both male and female candidates across various branches of the Indian Air Force.
In the Flying Branch, there are a total of 36 vacancies announced under Short Service Commission, including 28 positions for men and 8 for women.
For Ground Duty (Technical), Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics) has 88 vacancies, while Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) has 36 vacancies. Both branches offer opportunities under Permanent Commission and Short Service Commission.
Similarly, Ground Duty (Non-Technical) also offers opportunities in Weapon Systems, Administration, Logistics, Accounts, Education and Meteorology. The number of vacancies varies across these branches and commission types.
Candidates must carefully check the official notification to understand the gender-wise distribution of AFCAT (1) 2027 vacancies and commission details before selecting their preferred entry.
Important Dates for AFCAT (1) 2027
Now that you know the tentative AFCAT (1) 2027 vacancies, you must keep the following dates in mind:
| Notification release | 11 November 2026 |
| Online application begins | 12 November 2026 |
| Last date to apply | 11 December 2026 |
| AFCAT 1 2027 exam date | 31 January 2027 |
| Course commencement | January 2028 |
The examination will be conducted in online mode at specific centres. Candidates can access the application form through the official website, that is, afcat.edcil.co.in.
AFCAT (1) 2027 Selection Process
The selection process for becoming an officer in the Indian Air Force consists of multiple stages designed to assess candidates’ knowledge, aptitude, personality and suitability for service as commissioned officers. The major stages include:
- Online Written Examination: Candidates must qualify the Air Force Common Admission Test. You may check the detailed syllabus here.
- AFSB Testing: Shortlisted candidates appear for the Air Force Selection Board assessment, which includes psychological tests, group tasks and personal interviews.
- Medical Examination: Candidates recommended by the AFSB undergo medical assessments as per Indian Air Force standards.
- Final Merit List: Selection is based on performance, medical fitness, eligibility and the availability of vacancies.
Final Thoughts
With 268 tentative AFCAT (1) 2027 vacancies, this cycle of the exam presents an opportunity for aspiring candidates to pursue a career as commissioned officers in the Indian Air Force. The recruitment drive offers positions across Flying, Ground Duty Technical and Non-Technical branches, with opportunities for both men and women.
Hence, before applying, candidates should carefully review the branch-wise vacancies, educational qualifications and age requirements before submitting their applications.
With the application window open from 12 November to 11 December 2026, interested aspirants should complete the registration process within the prescribed deadline and begin preparing for the written examination scheduled for 31 January 2027.
