IAF introduces GATE-based scheme for officer recruitment, bypasses AFCAT exam

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced a new scheme for induction into its Technical Branch (Officers Cadre), allowing eligible candidates to apply using their Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) scores, as per PIB.

Under the initiative, candidates with valid GATE scores will be directly shortlisted for testing at the Air Force Selection Boards (AFSBs). Selection will be conducted on a merit basis, and such applicants will be exempted from the preliminary written examination, including the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT), for Technical Branch entry.

GATE scheme limited to Technical Branch

The GATE Score-based entry will apply exclusively to the Technical Branch. The AFCAT will continue to serve as the primary entrance examination for all branches of the IAF, including the Technical Branch.


The entry-level educational qualifications under the GATE scheme will remain the same as those required for Technical Branch induction through AFCAT.

Eligible subjects and application flexibility

The list of accepted GATE subjects has been officially released by the IAF in AFCAT Notification 02/2026. Candidates can access the notification on afcat.edcil.co.in and careeriaf.gov.in.

To offer greater flexibility, candidates eligible for Technical Branch induction may apply through both the AFCAT and GATE Score schemes, depending on their preference.

Official channels for updates

The IAF has advised prospective candidates to follow its official DISHA social media handles for updates on officers’ entry schemes. These include @careeriniaf on Instagram and X, and @DISHA by Indian Air Force on Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn.