AFCAT Exam Centres 2026 (OUT): Full List of Test Cities in India
Did you know the AFCAT 1 2026 exam, scheduled for January 31, 2026, will be conducted in more than 100 cities across India, similar to the extensive network for JEE Main exam centres? Aspiring candidates aiming for Class-I Gazetted Officer roles in the Indian Air Force need to understand these exam details, from the application process to the test day s. This section outlines the key parameters of the AFCAT 1 2026 examination, including its date, overall pattern, duration, total marks, and logistical information for test-takers.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | AFCAT 1 2026 (Air Force Common Admission Test) |
| Conducting Body | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Purpose of Exam | Recruit Class-I Gazetted Officers for Flying, Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) Branches |
| Exam Date | January 31, 2026 (Saturday) |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Total Marks | 300 |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Negative Marking | 1 mark deducted for every incorrect answer |
| Application Fee | â‚ą550 + GST (non-refundable) |
| Fee Exception | Not applicable for NCC Special Entry candidates |
| Exam Cities Count | More than 100 cities across India |
| Exam Centre Preferences | Candidates can select up to 5 preferred cities during application |
| Centre Allotment Policy | Based on candidate preferences, number of applications, and IAF discretion |
| Centre Change Policy | Requests for changing the exam centre are not accepted once allotted; candidates can try to contact IAF authorities in extreme cases |
| Shift 1 Reporting Time | 07:30 AM onwards |
| Shift 2 Reporting Time | 12:30 PM onwards |
| Required Documents for Exam | AFCAT admit card, valid ID proof, two passport-size photographs, black ballpoint pen, rough plain/blank sheet, drinking water in a transparent bottle |
| Prohibited Items | Electronic devices (mobile phones), papers, notebooks, valuables, food, drinks |
| Official Website (Admit Card) | afcat.edcil.co.in |
| Official Website (Notification/Application) | afcat.cdac.in |
| Contact for Queries | AFCAT Cell, Toll-Free No. 1800-11-2448 |
| Selection Process (Overview) | Online exam followed by Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview |
| Courses Commencing | January 2027 |
Candidates must carefully review their AFCAT 1 2026 admit card for precise exam centre details and adhere to the strict reporting times to ensure a smooth examination experience, a common practice across major entrance tests like NIFT Entrance Exam. The Indian Air Force reserves the right to allot or change exam centres based on operational requirements and candidate density.
AFCAT Exam Pattern 2026: Section-wise Questions, Marks & Time
The AFCAT 2026 examination comprises four distinct sections, designed to assess candidates across various aptitudes for entry into the Indian Air Force. While the overall exam structure includes 100 questions for a total of 300 marks over a 2-hour duration, the specific distribution of questions and marks for each of these four sections is not explicitly detailed in the official notification for the 2026 cycle.
Candidates should note that one mark will be deducted for every incorrect answer in the AFCAT 2026 online computer-based test, emphasizing accuracy during the examination. Understanding the exam pattern and marking scheme is for effective preparation. For more details on the AFCAT 2026 examination, including the full list of test cities in India, candidates should refer to the official Indian Air Force website.
AFCAT Syllabus 2026: Topic-wise Syllabus with Weightage
The AFCAT 2026 syllabus is structured into key sections like English and General Awareness, designed to evaluate candidates for various branches of the Indian Air Force. The English section, for instance, typically comprises at least 20 questions, covering areas from comprehension to error spotting, while General Awareness includes 8 distinct topics such as Indian History and Current Affairs. The exam is conducted in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Bengali, and Marathi.
| Section | Topic | Key Focus Areas | Section-wise Question Count/Weightage (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | Comprehension | Understanding and interpreting given passages, drawing inferences. | Part of the English section (approx. 20+ questions) |
| English | Cloze Test | Filling in blanks in a passage with appropriate words to complete its meaning. | Part of the English section (approx. 20+ questions) |
| English | Synonyms and Antonyms | Identifying words with similar and opposite meanings. | Part of the English section (approx. 20+ questions) |
| English | Idioms and Phrases | Understanding the meaning and usage of common idioms and phrases. | Part of the English section (approx. 20+ questions) |
| English | Error Spotting | Identifying grammatical errors in sentences. | Part of the English section (approx. 20+ questions) |
| General Awareness | Indian History | Significant events, periods, and personalities in Indian history. | Part of the General Awareness section (broad coverage) |
| General Awareness | Polity | Indian Constitution, political system, governance, and public administration. | Part of the General Awareness section (broad coverage) |
| General Awareness | Economics | Basic economic concepts, Indian economy, and current economic affairs. | Part of the General Awareness section (broad coverage) |
| General Awareness | Geography | Physical, human, and economic geography of India and the world. | Part of the General Awareness section (broad coverage) |
| General Awareness | Physics | Fundamental principles and concepts of physics. | Part of the General Awareness section (broad coverage) |
| General Awareness | Chemistry | Basic concepts of chemistry, elements, compounds, and reactions. | Part of the General Awareness section (broad coverage) |
| General Awareness | Biology | Fundamentals of life sciences, human body, and environmental biology. | Part of the General Awareness section (broad coverage) |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs | Recent national and international events, awards, sports, and important personalities. | Part of the General Awareness section (broad coverage) |
The AFCAT 2026 exam also includes an Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) for candidates applying to the Ground Duty (Technical) Branch, which assesses specific technical knowledge relevant to engineering disciplines.
AFCAT Exam Centres 2026 (OUT): Full List of Test Cities in India Important Dates 2026: Registration, Admit Card & Result
The AFCAT 1 2026 examination is scheduled for January 31, 2026, across more than 100 cities in India, with the application window opening on November 17, 2025. Candidates can select up to five preferred exam cities during registration, and the admit cards will be released on January 22, 2026, on the official website afcat.edcil.co.in. The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducts the AFCAT exam twice a year to recruit Class-I Gazetted Officers for Flying and Ground Duty branches. Aspiring candidates should note the following key dates for AFCAT 1 2026 to ensure timely application and preparation.
| Event | Date/Expected Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| AFCAT 1 2026 Notification Release (Tentative) | November 2025 | Released |
| AFCAT 1 2026 Application Form Release | November 17, 2025 | Released |
| AFCAT 1 2026 Application Deadline | December 19, 2025 (2330 HR) | Closed |
| AFCAT 1 2026 Application Form Correction Window | December 23 – 24, 2025 (1100 HR to 2330 HR) | Closed |
| AFCAT 1 2026 City Intimation Slip Release | January 9, 2026 | Released |
| AFCAT 1 2026 Admit Card Release | January 22, 2026 | Released |
| AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Date | January 31, 2026 | Scheduled |
| AFCAT 1 2026 Answer Key Release | February 1, 2026 | Expected |
| AFCAT 1 2026 Answer Key Objection Window | February 1 – 3, 2026 | Expected |
| AFCAT 1 2026 Result Release | February 2026 (around a month after exam) | Expected |
| AFCAT 2 2026 Application Form Availability | June 2026 | Expected |
The AFCAT 1 2026 application fee is â‚ą550 + GST, which is non-refundable for all categories, except for NCC special entry candidates. The examination authority reserves the right to allot exam cities based on candidate preferences and the number of applications received, with no requests for changes accepted once allotted. Candidates are required to select five preferred AFCAT exam centres 2026 during the application process, with the final allotment appearing on their admit card. While the IAF s to assign centres based on choices, candidates may be allotted to other available venues if their selected options are full. This policy is similar to other national-level entrance exams like the JEE Main, where candidates also select multiple city preferences. On the exam day, candidates must report at 07:30 AM for the first shift or 12:30 PM for the second shift, carrying their AFCAT admit card, a valid ID proof, two passport-size photographs, a black ballpoint pen, a rough sheet, and drinking water in a transparent bottle. The city intimation slip, released on January 9, 2026, helps candidates make necessary travel arrangements for their assigned exam centres.
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AFCAT Eligibility 2026: Age Limit, Qualification & Attempts
AFCAT 2026 eligibility criteria specify age limits and educational qualifications for various branches, with courses commencing in January 2027. Candidates for the Flying Branch must be up to 26 years old, while those for Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) must be between 20 and 26 years as of January 1, 2027. For comprehensive details on test locations, students can refer to the AFCAT exam centres list. The table below outlines the detailed eligibility requirements for AFCAT 2026, covering nationality, age limits, educational qualifications, and specific conditions for different branches.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Citizen of India as per Indian Citizenship Act, 1955 |
| Gender | Male and female candidates are eligible |
| Age Limit (Flying Branch) | Up to 26 years (born between 02 January 2001 to 01 January 2007, both dates inclusive) |
| Age Limit (Ground Duty Technical & Non-Technical) | 20 to 26 years as on 01 January 2027 (born between 02 January 2001 to 01 January 2007, both dates inclusive) |
| Educational Qualification (General) | Graduation or Post-graduation from a recognized University/Institution |
| Eligibility for Final Year Students | Eligible if no backlog and can produce degree Certificate before training commencement |
| Additional Requirement (Ground Duty Technical) | Must also clear the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) |
| NCC Special Entry (Eligibility Note) | Written exam exempted; candidates are directly called for AFSB testing |
These eligibility conditions for AFCAT 2026 ensure that aspirants meet the foundational requirements for joining the Indian Air Force as commissioned officers across its diverse branches. Candidates must carefully review all criteria before submitting their application.
Colleges Accepting AFCAT Exam Centres 2026 (OUT): Full List of Test Cities in India Score: Top Colleges & Expected Cutoff
The AFCAT 2026 examination is conducted in over 100 cities across India, with candidates able to select up to five preferred test cities during the application process. The Indian Air Force released the city intimation slip for AFCAT 1 2026 on January 9, 2026, to registered email IDs and mobile numbers. The table below lists the major AFCAT 2026 exam centres available across the country for candidates appearing in the January 31, 2026, examination.
| AFCAT 2026 Exam Centre City |
|---|
| Ahmedabad |
| Bengaluru |
| Chennai |
| Delhi |
| Ghaziabad |
| Gwalior |
| Hyderabad |
| Jaipur |
| Kolkata |
| Lucknow |
| Madurai |
| Mumbai |
| Nasik | Pune |
| Ujjain |
Candidates are allotted an exam centre based on their preferences, the number of applications received in each city, and the discretion of the Indian Air Force. While requests for changing the AFCAT exam centre are generally not accepted once allotted, candidates can try to contact the Indian Air Force authorities for specific concerns. For more details on other exam locations, refer to the AFCAT Exam Centres 2026 guide. The AFCAT admit card, released on January 22, 2026, includes the final exam centre address and timings.
AFCAT Exam Centres 2026 (OUT): Full List of Test Cities in India Previous Year Analysis: Cutoff Trends & Difficulty Level
Historically, the AFCAT examination has maintained a moderate difficulty level, with cutoff scores typically ranging between 130-150 marks for the general category. For AFCAT 1 2026, the expected cutoff is 135-145 marks, aligning with this observed trend. Candidates should also be aware of the AFCAT exam centre policies, as the Indian Air Force assigns centres based on preferences and availability across over 100 cities.
The AFCAT examination is conducted twice a year, with AFCAT 1 2026 scheduled for January 31, 2026. Understanding the exam’s structure and previous year patterns is for effective preparation, similar to how candidates prepare for other national-level tests like the JEE Main exam, which also has a wide network of 323 centers in India.
AFCAT Exam Centres 2026 (OUT): Full List of Test Cities in India
The AFCAT 1 2026 examination was conducted on January 31, 2026, across more than 100 cities throughout India. Candidates applying for the Air Force Common Admission Test could select up to five preferred exam cities during the application period, which ran from November 17 to December 19, 2025. The Indian Air Force (IAF) reserves the authority to allot or change exam centres based on candidate preferences and the volume of applications received in each city.
List of Major AFCAT 2026 Exam Cities
The AFCAT 1 2026 examination was held in numerous cities nationwide, providing candidates with various convenient locations. The city intimation slip for AFCAT 1 2026 was released on January 9, 2026, to registered email IDs and mobile numbers, allowing candidates to make necessary travel arrangements. For instance, the JEE Main 2026 exam also has a comprehensive list of test cities across India.
- Ahmedabad
- Bengaluru
- Chennai
- Delhi
- Ghaziabad
- Gwalior
- Hyderabad
- Jaipur
- Kolkata
- Lucknow
- Madurai
- Mumbai
- Nasik
- Pune
- Ujjain
Candidates were advised to check their city intimation slip for their assigned test city. The final exam centre address, along with exam timings and guidelines, was detailed on the AFCAT 1 2026 admit card, released on January 22, 2026, at afcat.edcil.co.in.
AFCAT 2026 Exam Centre Selection and Allotment Policy
The Indian Air Force outlines a clear process for selecting and allotting AFCAT exam centres for 2026, ensuring fairness while managing logistical constraints. Candidates must adhere to the specified guidelines during the application phase to secure their preferred test location.
- Candidates could select up to five preferred exam cities when filling out the AFCAT 1 2026 application form, which was available from November 17 to December 19, 2025.
- Exam centres are primarily allotted based on the preferences indicated by candidates, the total number of applications received for each city, and the discretion of the Indian Air Force.
- Requests for changing the AFCAT exam centre are generally not accepted by the exam authority once the centre has been allotted. However, candidates may attempt to contact Indian Air Force authorities for exceptional cases.
- If a candidate’s selected exam centres are fully occupied, the Indian Air Force may allot an alternative available centre, typically the nearest possible location.
- The city intimation slip for AFCAT 1 2026 was released on January 9, 2026, providing candidates with their assigned test city to travel arrangements.
- The AFCAT 1 2026 admit card, released on January 22, 2026, on afcat.edcil.co.in, contained the precise address of the allotted exam centre, along with exam timings and guidelines.
Documents and Guidelines for AFCAT Exam Day
On the AFCAT 1 2026 exam day, candidates must carry specific documents and adhere to strict guidelines to ensure a smooth examination process. Reporting times were 7:30 AM for the first shift and 12:30 PM for the second shift. Similarly, the CTET February 2026 re-exam saw specific centre changes, highlighting the dynamic nature of exam logistics and the importance of checking admit cards.
- A back-to-back printed copy of the AFCAT 1 2026 admit card, downloaded from afcat.edcil.co.in.
- A valid government-approved photo identity proof in original, such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, or driving license.
- Two recent passport-size photographs, identical to the one uploaded during the application process.
- A black ballpoint pen for rough work and marking on the provided plain/blank sheet.
- A rough plain/blank sheet was provided at the exam centre for calculations and notes.
- Drinking water in a transparent bottle was permitted inside the examination hall.
Prohibited items included electronic devices like mobile phones, papers, notebooks, and any personal valuables.
Key Takeaways
- AFCAT 1 2026 exam was conducted on January 31, 2026, across more than 100 cities in India.
- Candidates selected up to five preferred exam cities during the application window (November 17 to December 19, 2025).
- The city intimation slip was released on January 9, 2026, and the admit card on January 22, 2026, detailing the exam centre.
For any queries regarding AFCAT 2026 exam centres or application process, candidates can contact the AFCAT Cell at the toll-free number 1800-11-2448.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
AFCAT 2026 exam centre list kab release hogi?
AFCAT 2026 exam centre list along with the city intimation slip was released on January 9, 2026. Candidates received the intimation via registered email and mobile number. The official admit card with the exact centre was released separately on January 22, 2026.
Can I choose my preferred city for AFCAT 2026 exam centre?
Yes, candidates can select up to 5 preferred cities during the AFCAT 2026 application process. However, the final allotment is based on availability and discretion of the Indian Air Force. If preferred centres are occupied, candidates may be assigned to alternate available venues.
Which major cities are AFCAT 2026 test centres in Maharashtra?
Major AFCAT 2026 test centres in Maharashtra include Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and Nashik. These cities have multiple exam venues to accommodate the large number of applicants. Candidates should select their preferred city during application submission.
What is the age limit and educational qualification for AFCAT 2026?
For AFCAT 2026, the age limit for Flying Branch is 20–24 years as of July 1, 2026. Educational qualification requires a graduation degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level. For Ground Duty branches, age limit is 20–26 years with any graduation stream.
How much is the AFCAT 2026 application fee for general category?
The AFCAT 2026 application fee for General category candidates is â‚ą250. Payment can be made online through net banking, credit/debit cards, or UPI. SC/ST candidates are exempt from the application fee.
What is the starting salary for an Air Force officer after clearing AFCAT?
An Air Force officer’s starting salary after clearing AFCAT is ₹56,100 per month (Basic Pay) under Level 10 of the 7th Pay Commission. Additional allowances like Flying Allowance, HRA, and DA can raise the in-hand salary to ₹90,000–₹1.2 LPA.
What are the career opportunities after clearing AFCAT exam?
After clearing AFCAT, candidates can join the Indian Air Force in Flying, Technical, or Ground Duty branches. Selected officers receive training at Air Force Academy, Hyderabad, and are commissioned as Lieutenants with opportunities for promotions up to Air Chief Marshal rank.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is sourced from official websites, NIRF rankings, and publicly available data. Fees, placement figures, and other details may vary. Please verify with the official institution website for the most current information.
