New Delhi : In a significant move aimed at attracting top engineering talent, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced a new induction scheme for the Technical Branch (Officer Cadre) through valid Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) scores.
Under the newly introduced scheme, engineering graduates possessing valid GATE scores will now be eligible for direct shortlisting to the Air Force Selection Boards (AFSBs), eliminating the requirement to appear for the preliminary written examination such as the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT).
The initiative is expected to streamline the recruitment process and provide greater opportunities for technically qualified aspirants seeking a career in the Indian Air Force.
According to the official announcement issued by the Ministry of Defence, the GATE Score scheme will be applicable exclusively for induction into the Technical Branch of the IAF. However, AFCAT will continue to remain the standard entry route for all other branches, including the Technical Branch.
The educational qualification criteria for candidates applying through the GATE-based entry route will remain identical to the existing eligibility norms prescribed under AFCAT for Technical Branch recruitment.
The Indian Air Force has also clarified that candidates will have the flexibility to apply through both AFCAT and the GATE Score schemes simultaneously, depending on their eligibility and preference.
A detailed list of accepted GATE subjects and eligibility conditions has been published in the AFCAT Notification 02/2026, available on the official websites:
The IAF has advised aspiring candidates to regularly follow official DISHA Indian Air Force social media platforms for updates related to officer entry schemes and recruitment notifications.
Official Social Media Handles:
- Instagram & X: @careeriniaf
- Facebook, YouTube & LinkedIn: DISHA by Indian Air Force
