The Indian Air Force (IAF) allows eligible candidates to apply for AFCAT 02/2026 until June 21, 2026 (11:59 PM), via the official AFCAT portal. The recruitment aims to fill 379 vacancies across Flying Branch, Ground Duty Technical, and Ground Duty Non-Technical branches, through AFCAT Entry, NCC Special Entry, and GATE Score Entry. Reports also state that the chosen candidates will undergo training beginning in the first week of July 2027, with the written examination scheduled for August 8, 2026.

Across sources, the selection process is described as merit-based and includes an online AFCAT written examination, followed by an Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview/assessment, document verification, a physical fitness test, and a medical examination. Candidates are then considered for the final merit list based on performance and vacancy availability.

For fees, the AFCAT Entry route requires a non-refundable application fee of ₹550 plus GST, while NCC Special Entry and GATE Score Entry candidates are reported as fee-exempt. Age criteria are calculated as of July 1, 2027, with different limits for Flying (20–24) versus Ground Duty (20–26) applicants.