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.
The entry-level educational qualifications under the GATE scheme will remain the same as those required for Technical Branch induction through AFCAT.
To offer greater flexibility, candidates eligible for Technical Branch induction may apply through both the AFCAT and GATE Score schemes, depending on their preference.
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.
