AFCAT 2026 Calendar (Form, Exam, SSB Dates) – Complete Schedule for AFCAT Aspirants

AFCAT 2026 Calendar: Form Dates, Exam Dates, and SSB Details

Are you planning to appear for AFCAT 2026? Then you’re at the right place. This article is designed to make things simple, clear, and stress-free for you. You don’t need to jump between multiple websites or dig through long notifications anymore.

Here, you’ll find everything related to AFCAT 1 and AFCAT 2 2026 application form dates, exam schedule, result timeline, SSB interview dates, and the overall journey from filling the form to joining the Indian Air Force.

AFCAT 2026 – At a Glance

The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is conducted twice every year by the Indian Air Force to select officers for the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) branches.

The AFCAT selection process includes:

• Written Examination (AFCAT)
• AFSB Interview (SSB)
• Medical Examination
• Final Merit List

Each stage follows a fixed timeline. Knowing these dates in advance helps aspirants plan preparation smartly instead of panicking later.

AFCAT 2026 Calendar (AFCAT 1 & AFCAT 2)

Based on the official exam cycle and previous year trends, AFCAT 1 is conducted in February, while AFCAT 2 usually takes place in August. The Indian Air Force is quite consistent with its schedule, which makes planning much easier for serious aspirants.

AFCAT 1 2026 – Important Dates

AFCAT 2 2026 – Important Dates

AFCAT Exam Pattern (Same for Both Attempts)

The AFCAT paper includes:

• General Awareness
• English
• Numerical Ability
• Reasoning & Military Aptitude

AFCAT 2026 SSB Interview Dates (AFSB)

Once you clear the written exam, the real test of personality begins at the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB).

AFCAT 1 2026 AFSB Schedule

April to June 2026

Includes:

• Psychological Tests
• GTO Tasks
• Personal Interview
• CPSS (for Flying Branch)

AFCAT 2 2026 AFSB Schedule

October to December 2026

Candidates opting for the Flying Branch must also clear the Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS), which is a one-time test.

AFCAT 2026 Training Schedule

Candidates who clear AFSB and medicals are finally recommended for training at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal.

• AFCAT 1 2026 Course: Begins in January 2027
• AFCAT 2 2026 Course: Begins in July 2027

Yes, the entire journey from form-filling to joining the academy takes around 12–15 months.

How to Plan Your AFCAT 2026 Preparation According to the Calendar

Knowing dates is important, but using them wisely is what actually brings success.

1. Start Early – Don’t Wait for Notification

If you’re serious about AFCAT, start preparation 8–10 months before the exam. This helps in:

• Strong Maths & Reasoning basics
• Better English proficiency
• Regular mock test practice
• Stress-free revision

2. Use the Gap Between Exam & AFSB Wisely

You’ll get at least 45–60 days before your AFSB. Use this time to:

• Practice psychological tests
• Improve communication & confidence
• Work on OLQs
• Build physical stamina

Joining a 21-day AFSB preparation course can be extremely helpful during this phase.

3. Follow IAF Instructions Carefully

Most rejections happen due to small mistakes

• Wrong photograph or signature
• Incorrect details
• Not reading instructions properly

Double-check everything before submitting the form. Double-check everything before submitting the form.

4. Solve Previous Year Papers

AFCAT repeats concepts, especially in:

• Reasoning
• Numerical Ability
• English & GA

Solving 5–10 years of papers gives you a clear edge.

Final Thoughts – Your AFCAT 2026 Journey Starts Now

AFCAT is more than an exam; it is a passport for being an officer in the Indian Air Force. Planning, consistency, and discipline are the factors that set the recommended apart from the others. 

This AFCAT 2026 Calendar provides you with the complete roadmap from the release date of the calendar until the commencement of training. If you begin early, AFCAT 2026 will definitely be your turning point. Therefore, be ready, be disciplined, and be on the way to donning the Indian Air Force uniform.

Read more:

How to Prepare for AFCAT 2026 Along with Graduation

How to Prepare for AFSB Interview after AFCAT Exam?

Top 5 AFCAT Online Coaching Programs That Turn Average Students into Air Warriors