Yes, the AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) is conducted twice a year for the selection of the candidates in the Indian Air Force. The two sessions are conducted in February (AFCAT 1) and August (AFCAT 2). This twice a year examination provides the candidate a chance to become a commissioned officer in the Indian Air Force in flying branch as well as ground duty technical and ground duty non-technical branches.
Now let us know more about the AFCAT exam, its frequency and how one can prepare for the same.
How often is the AFCAT Exam Conducted?
|
Exam Name |
Frequency |
Months Held |
Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
|
AFCAT 1 |
Once |
February |
Online |
|
AFCAT 2 |
Once |
August |
Online |
|
Total |
2 times |
Twice Every Year |
Computer-Based |
The IAF releases the notification for each AFCAT session individually, where AFCAT I is released in December and AFCAT II in June.
Read More: Is AFCAT Exam Easy to Clear?
What is the pattern of AFCAT exam?
AFCAT is an examination conducted by the Indian Air Force for the selection of officers at the group ‘A’ Gazetted side, and it is a computer-based test containing only multiple-choice questions. The total time taken is 2 hours, and the questions included are from
• General Awareness
• Verbal Ability in English
• Numerical Ability
• Reasoning and Military Aptitude
For the candidates seeking the Technical branch, the test further consists of an EKT (Engineering Knowledge Test).
How Should I Start My AFCAT Preparation?
To clear AFCAT in the first attempt, one needs to have a proper schedule and materials to study. Most of the candidates start with an AFCAT preparation book that has test series and comprehensive coverage of the syllabus section wise. These books help to clear concepts and also increases the speed of solving problems.
Solving an AFCAT previous year question paper book also assists in knowing the pattern of the paper, important topics and the standard of the question paper. It is recommended to analyze at least 4-5 years of papers in order to reveal trends and most common questions.
Can I Prepare for AFCAT Without Coaching?
Yes, you can prepare for AFCAT without coaching but it will be a bit tough as the AFCAT has many sections and sub-sections and each section is very vast and full of difficult questions.
Absolutely! AFCAT is one of the competitive exams where if one can devote time for self preparation it is more than enough. By referring to the right AFCAT books, by managing time effectively, and by doing AFCAT mock tests, one does not require coaching.
Who is Eligible for AFCAT?
|
Branch |
Age Limit |
Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
|
Flying Branch |
20 to 24 years |
Graduation with minimum 60% marks |
|
Ground Duty (Tech) |
20 to 26 years |
B.E./B.Tech with 60% in relevant disciplines |
|
Ground Duty (Non-Tech) |
20 to 26 years |
Graduate in any discipline with 60% marks |
Note: Age relaxation and other details vary. Always refer to the official notification.
Conclusion
Yes, AFCAT is conducted twice a year and thus offers enough chances for the aspirants to join Indian Air force. Thus, one must remain consistent and make preparations with the help of good AFCAT books, and one must practice questions from the AFCAT previous year question paper book. Therefore, if the appropriate strategy and resources, such as a good AFCAT preparation book are employed, passing this exam is not a dream.
