In 2024, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced a total of 304 vacancies to be filled through the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 2. Aspiring candidates eager to join the IAF need to be well-informed about these vacancies, which are distributed across various branches of the IAF. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the branch-wise and gender-wise distribution of vacancies, along with important dates, eligibility criteria, and past vacancy trends.
What is AFCAT?
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is a competitive examination conducted by the IAF twice a year to recruit men and women into various branches. The exam consists of 100 questions, each worth 3 marks, culminating in a total of 300 marks. Air Force Common Admission Test is divided into two stages:
- Written Exam: The initial stage where candidates answer multiple-choice questions.
- AFSB Interview: Qualified candidates from the written exam proceed to the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview.
AFCAT 2 2024 Important Dates
The Air Force Common Admission Test 2 2024 is anticipated to be held at the end of August or the beginning of September. Both male and female candidates aged between 20-26 years and holding a bachelor’s degree can apply from May 30, 2024, to June 28, 2024.
Vacancy Trend for AFCAT 2 2024
Out of the total 304 vacancies announced, 237 are allocated for male candidates, and 67 are allocated for female candidates. The distribution of vacancies across various branches is as follows:
Branch-wise Vacancy Distribution for AFCAT 2 2024
| Branch | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 18 | 11 |
| Ground Duty Technical Branch | ||
| Electronics Engineering | 88 | 23 |
| Mechanical Engineering | 36 | 9 |
| Ground Duty Non-Technical Branch | ||
| Weapon System | 14 | 3 |
| Administration | 43 | 11 |
| Accounts | 10 | 2 |
| Logistics | 13 | 4 |
| Education | 7 | 2 |
| Meteorology | 8 | 2 |
| NCC Special Entry | 10% of the AFCAT total vacancy |
Candidates should use this information to fill in their preferences in the application form according to the branch they wish to apply for.
What is AFCAT Eligibility Criteria?
Eligibility criteria for Air Force Common Admission Test vary depending on the branch:
Flying Branch
- Age Limit: 20-24 years
- Educational Qualification: Must have studied Mathematics and Physics at the 12th level.
Ground Duty Technical Branches
- Age Limit: 20-26 years
- Educational Qualification: Graduation in any Engineering field is mandatory.
Ground Duty Non-Technical Branches
- Age Limit: 20-26 years
- Educational Qualification: Graduation in any discipline.
For more detailed information on educational qualifications for AFCAT 2 2024, candidates are advised to refer to the official notification.
Vacancy Trends in Previous Years
Analyzing past vacancy trends can help candidates understand the recruitment patterns and prepare accordingly. Here are the vacancies for the recent Air Force Common Admission Test exams:
| Year | Vacancy |
|---|---|
| AFCAT 1 2024 | 317 |
| AFCAT 2 2023 | 276 |
| AFCAT 1 2023 | 256 |
While the number of vacancies for Air Force Common Admission Test 2 2024 (304) has slightly decreased compared to AFCAT 1 2024 (317), it still represents an increase over the vacancies from the previous year.
Conclusion
The Air Force Common Admission Test exam offers a prestigious opportunity for candidates to become commissioned officers in the Indian Air Force. With 304 vacancies available for Air Force Common Admission Test 2 2024, interested candidates should seize this chance and apply. Preparing thoroughly for both the written exam and the AFSB interview will enhance their chances of success.
Aspiring candidates should stay updated with the official notifications and deadlines. Good luck to all the applicants aiming to join the ranks of the Indian Air Force!
FAQs
1. What is AFCAT?
AFCAT stands for Air Force Common Admission Test, a competitive examination conducted by the Indian Air Force twice a year to recruit men and women into various branches of the IAF. The exam consists of 100 questions, each worth 3 marks, totaling 300 marks.
2. How many vacancies are announced for Air Force Common Admission Test 2 2024?
A total of 304 vacancies are announced for Air Force Common Admission Test 2 2024.
3. What is NCC Special Entry?
NCC Special Entry constitutes 10% of the AFCAT total vacancy, allowing NCC cadets to join the IAF through a special entry scheme.
4. How can candidates apply for Air Force Common Admission Test 2 2024?
Candidates can apply for Air Force Common Admission Test 2 2024 through the official Indian Air Force recruitment website during the application window from May 30, 2024, to June 28, 2024.
5. Can both men and women apply for any branch?
Yes, both men and women can apply for any branch as long as they meet the respective eligibility criteria.
