The Indian Air Force (IAF) stands as a formidable pillar of India’s defense, offering diverse career opportunities for individuals passionate about serving the nation. In 2025, the IAF has announced multiple recruitment schemes catering to various age groups, educational qualifications, and career aspirations. These include the Agniveer Vayu under the Agnipath Scheme, AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) for officer entries, and other specialized roles. This article provides a comprehensive overview of these recruitment avenues, eligibility criteria, application processes, and key dates to guide prospective candidates.
Overview of Indian Air Force Recruitment 2025
| Recruitment Scheme | Eligibility | Application Dates | Key Positions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agniveer Vayu (Intake 02/2026) | Class 12 pass; Age 17.5–21 years | 11 July – 31 July 2025 | Airmen in various trades |
| AFCAT 02/2025 | Graduation/Post-graduation; Age 20–26 years | 2 June – 1 July 2025 | Flying and Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Tech) |
| NCC Special Entry | Graduation with NCC ‘C’ certificate; Age 20–24 years | 2 June – 1 July 2025 | Flying Branch |
| Short Service Commission (SSC) Tech | Engineering graduates; Age 20–27 years | Dates as per official notification | Technical Officers |
| Agniveer Vayu (Intake 01/2026) | Class 12 pass; Age 17.5–21 years | 11 July – 4 August 2025 | Airmen in various trades |
Details of Indian Air Force Recruitment 2025
1. Agniveer Vayu (Intake 02/2026)
- Purpose: To recruit airmen under the Agnipath Scheme for a four-year tenure.
- Eligibility: Candidates must have passed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics, aged between 17.5 to 21 years.
- Application Process: Online registration through the official portal agnipathvayu.cdac.in.
- Selection Process: Includes an online test, Physical Fitness Test (PFT), Adaptability Test-II, and Medical Examination.
- Benefits: Provides an opportunity to serve in the IAF, with a chance for absorption into regular service based on performance.
2. AFCAT 02/2025
- Purpose: To select officers for the Flying and Ground Duty branches.
- Eligibility:
- Flying Branch: Graduation with a minimum of 60% marks, having studied Physics and Mathematics at Class 12; age between 20 to 24 years.
- Ground Duty (Technical): Engineering graduates; age between 20 to 26 years.
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Graduates in relevant disciplines; age between 20 to 26 years.
- Application Process: Online application via the AFCAT portal.
- Selection Process: Written examination followed by an interview at the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) and a medical examination.
- Training: Commences in July 2026 at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal.
3. NCC Special Entry
- Purpose: To provide an entry for NCC Air Wing Senior Division ‘C’ certificate holders into the Flying Branch.
- Eligibility: Graduation with a minimum of 60% marks and a valid NCC ‘C’ certificate; age between 20 to 24 years.
- Application Process: Online application through the AFCAT portal.
- Selection Process: Shortlisting based on NCC ‘C’ certificate and academic qualifications, followed by AFSB interview and medical examination.
4. Short Service Commission (SSC) Tech
- Purpose: To recruit technical officers in various engineering disciplines.
- Eligibility: Engineering graduates in relevant disciplines; age between 20 to 27 years.
- Application Process: Online application through the AFCAT portal.
- Selection Process: Based on academic qualifications, followed by AFSB interview and medical examination.
5. Agniveer Vayu (Intake 01/2026)
- Purpose: To recruit airmen under the Agnipath Scheme for a four-year tenure.
- Eligibility: Candidates must have passed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics, aged between 17.5 to 21 years.
- Application Process: Online registration through the official portal agnipathvayu.cdac.in.
- Selection Process: Includes an online test, Physical Fitness Test (PFT), Adaptability Test-II, and Medical Examination.
- Benefits: Provides an opportunity to serve in the IAF, with a chance for absorption into regular service based on performance.
Conclusion
The Indian Air Force offers a plethora of opportunities for individuals aspiring to serve the nation. Whether you’re a school graduate aiming to join as an Agniveer, a graduate seeking a commission through AFCAT, or an engineering graduate interested in the SSC Tech entry, there’s a pathway available. It’s crucial for candidates to stay informed about the official notifications, adhere to the eligibility criteria, and prepare diligently for the selection processes. Serving in the IAF not only offers a chance to contribute to the nation’s defense but also provides personal growth, skill development, and a sense of pride.
Common Concerns
Q1: How can I apply for the Agniveer Vayu recruitment?
A1: Interested candidates can apply online through the official portal agnipathvayu.cdac.in during the specified application dates.
Q2: What is the age limit for AFCAT 02/2025?
A2: The age limit varies by branch:
- Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years
- Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical): 20 to 26 years
Q3: Can final-year students apply for AFCAT?
A3: Yes, candidates in their final year of graduation can apply, provided they complete their degree requirements by the specified date.
Q4: What is the training duration for selected candidates?
A4: Training duration varies:
- Agniveer Vayu: 10 weeks to 6 months
- AFCAT entries: Approximately 1 year at the Air Force Academy