How to Join Indian Air Force: A Step-by-Step Guide New

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

The Indian Air Force (IAF), the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces, is a symbol of courage, discipline, and technological excellence. Joining Indian Air Force is the dream of young people in India. It offers an exciting career filled with challenges, prestige, and national service. If you’re aspiring to join the Indian Air Force, understanding the pathways, eligibility criteria, and selection processes is essential. This step-by-step guide will walk you through all you need to know to begin your journey in the IAF.

Step 1: Understand the Career Options in the Indian Air Force

The Indian Air Force offers three major branches for recruitment:

1. Flying Branch – Fighter pilots, transport pilots, and helicopter pilots.
2. Technical Branch – Engineers responsible for aircraft and other systems.
3. Ground Duty Branch – Administrative, Logistics, Meteorology, Accounts, and Education roles.

Each branch requires different qualifications and has unique responsibilities.

Step 2: Know the Entry Modes

There are several ways to enter the IAF, depending on your educational qualifications:

1. NDA Entry (For 10+2 Students)

• Eligibility: Male candidates, unmarried, aged 16.5 to 19.5 years.
• Exam: National Defence Academy (NDA) conducted by UPSC.
• Course: 3 years at NDA (Khadakwasla), followed by pre-commission training at Air Force Academy, Hyderabad.

2. CDS Entry (For Graduates)

• Eligibility: Both male and female graduates aged 20–24 years.
• Exam: Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam by UPSC.
• Branch: Flying or Ground Duty (Non-Technical).

3. AFCAT Entry (For Graduates and Engineers)

• Exam: Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT), conducted twice a year.
• Branches: Flying, Technical, and Ground Duty.
• Eligibility: Graduation (for Ground Duty), Engineering (for Technical Branch).

4. NCC Special Entry

• Eligibility: NCC Air Wing ‘C’ Certificate holders with minimum 60% in graduation.
• Entry: Direct entry without written exam, subject to SSB selection.

5. University Entry Scheme (UES)

• Eligibility: Pre-final year engineering students (male only).
• Entry: Direct SSB interview, followed by medicals.

Step 3: Clear the Written Exam (If Applicable)

• NDA/CDS: Conducted by UPSC.
• AFCAT: Consists of sections on General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Reasoning, and Military Aptitude.
• EKT (Engineering Knowledge Test): For Technical Branch aspirants along with AFCAT.

Step 4: Crack the SSB Interview

Shortlisted candidates are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, which includes:

1. Screening Test (Verbal and Non-verbal reasoning, Picture Perception & Description Test).
2. Psychological Tests
3. Group Testing Officer Tasks (GTO)
4. Personal Interview
5. Conference Round

This process usually takes 5 days.

Step 5: Undergo Medical Examination

Medical standards in the IAF are stringent. The Central Medical Establishment (CME), New Delhi or the Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM), Bengaluru conducts medical tests, which include vision, hearing, cardiovascular, and other assessments.

Step 6: Final Merit List and Training

The final selection is based on performance in written tests, SSB, and medical fitness. A merit list is published, and candidates are inducted into training at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad.

• Flying Branch: 74 weeks of training.
• Technical Branch: 52 weeks.
• Ground Duty: 52 weeks.

Conclusion

Joining the Indian Air Force is not just a job — it is a commitment to serve the nation with pride and integrity. Whether you aim to soar in the skies or contribute on the ground, the IAF provides multiple opportunities for passionate individuals. With discipline, preparation, and determination, you can make your dream of wearing the Air Force uniform a reality. Always keep an eye on the official Indian Air Force website or employment news for updates on notifications and exams. Jai Hind!