In a major boost for engineering aspirants, the Indian Air Force has introduced a new entry scheme for induction into its Technical Branch (Officer Cadre) through Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) scores.
The new initiative allows eligible candidates with valid GATE scores to secure direct shortlisting for testing at the Air Force Selection Boards (AFSBs), bypassing the preliminary written examination stage.
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GATE Candidates to Get Direct AFSB Shortlisting
Under the newly announced scheme, candidates applying through GATE scores will be exempted from appearing in the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) written examination for Technical Branch entries.
Selection under the scheme will be entirely merit-based and applicable exclusively for Technical Branch induction.
However, the IAF clarified that Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) will continue to remain the standard admission route for all branches, including the Technical Branch.
Educational Criteria Remain Unchanged
The Indian Air Force stated that the educational qualifications required under the GATE-based entry route will remain identical to the existing Technical Branch eligibility criteria under AFCAT.
A detailed list of acceptable GATE subjects has already been published in AFCAT Notification 02/2026.
Candidates can access the notification through the official portals:
Candidates Can Apply Through Both AFCAT and GATE Routes
To maximise opportunities for aspirants, the IAF has allowed eligible engineering graduates to apply for the Technical Branch through both the AFCAT and GATE Score schemes simultaneously.
The move is expected to attract more technically qualified candidates into the officer cadre of the Air Force.
IAF Urges Aspirants to Follow Official Channels
For regular updates regarding officer entry schemes and recruitment notifications, candidates have been advised to follow DISHA Indian Air Force on social media platforms.
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