4 Best Ways To Join Indian Air Force in 2024

Are you passionate about serving your country and have a dream of flying high in the skies? Joining the Indian Air Force (IAF) can be an excellent opportunity for you to fulfill your aspirations. The IAF, the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces, is renowned for its skilled personnel and advanced aircraft assets.

In this article, we will explore the best ways for you to join the Indian Air Force in 2024. Whether you aspire to be a pilot or pursue a career in the ground duty branches, we will discuss the various entry options available to you.

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Best Ways To Join Indian Air Force

1. Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT)

The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is one of the most sought-after examinations conducted by the IAF. It serves as the gateway for selection into the Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical) Branch, and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch. The AFCAT exam is conducted twice a year, offering aspiring candidates multiple opportunities to join the Indian Air Force.

Eligibility for AFCAT:

• Flying Branch: Candidates must be between 20 to 24 years of age as of January 1, 2025. The upper age limit for candidates holding a valid Commercial Pilot License issued by DGCA is relaxable up to 26 years.
• Ground Duty (Technical/Non-Technical) Branch: Candidates must be between 20 to 26 years of age as of January 1, 2025.

AFCAT 1 2024 Important Dates:

AFCAT 2 2024 Important Dates:

2. Combine Defence Services (CDS) Examination

The Combine Defence Services (CDS) examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) biannually. It is a prestigious examination that opens avenues for officer cadre recruitment in the Indian Air Force. The Air Force Academy is the entry point for candidates selected through the CDS examination, where they undergo training to become Fighter pilots, Helicopter pilots, or Transport pilots.

Eligibility for CDS:

• Age: Candidates must be between 20 to 24 years old and must have been born between January 2, 2001, to January 1, 2005.
• Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized University or a BE/B Tech degree from a recognized University.

CDS 1 2024 Important Dates:

CDS 2 2024 Important Dates:

3. NCC Special Entry

If you hold an NCC ‘C’ certificate, you can apply for the NCC Special Entry to join the Indian Air Force. This entry allows you to apply for the Flying Branch. The NCC Special Entry reserves 10% of the CDSE vacancies for Permanent Commission and 10% of the AFCAT vacancies for Short Service Commission. Both men and women can join the Air Force through this entry, with Permanent Commission offered for men and Short Service Commission for men and women.

Eligibility for NCC Special Entry:

• Age: Candidates must be between 20 to 24 years old.
• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have a minimum of 60% marks in each Mathematics and Physics at the 10+2 level. They must also possess a graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized University with a minimum of 60% marks or equivalent. Alternatively, candidates with a BE/B Tech degree from a recognized University with a minimum of 60% marks or equivalent are also eligible.

4. National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam

The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is conducted twice a year by UPSC for Permanent Commission entry into the Indian Air Force. The NDA entry is open to 12th standard candidates who have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Additionally, college graduates can also appear for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE) to join the Indian Air Force.

NDA 1 2024 Important Dates:

NDA 2 2024 Important Dates:

Joining the Indian Air Force is a dream come true for many individuals who aspire to serve their nation and experience the thrill of flying. Whether you choose to appear for the AFCAT, CDS, NCC Special Entry, or NDA examination, each path offers a unique opportunity to embark on a rewarding career in the Indian Air Force. Prepare diligently, stay focused, and let your dreams take flight as you work towards joining the elite ranks of the Indian Air Force in 2024.

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