The Indian Air Force has always inspired the dreams of countless young Indians. With its proud motto “Touch the Sky with Glory”, the Air Force symbolizes courage, discipline, and national pride. Many students dream of wearing the uniform and serving the country, and UCI is here to guide them on that journey. At Uttam Career Institute, we provide expert coaching and support to students who want to join the Indian Air Force through exams like NDA, AFCAT, CDS, and NCC entry. If you're passionate about the Air Force, this guide is for you.
Joining the Indian Air Force is a dream for many young aspirants who want to serve the nation with pride and passion. The National Defence Academy (NDA) is one of the most prestigious ways to begin your career in the Indian Armed Forces, including the Air Force, right after 12th. If you're planning to join, Uttam Career Institute (UCI) in Dehradun provides expert coaching and complete guidance to crack the NDA exam successfully.
| Qualification | 12th pass with Physics and Mathematics |
|---|---|
| Exam Level | National |
| Post | Lieutenant |
| Conducted By | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Age Limit | 16.5 to 19.5 years |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Gender | Male and Female |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Selection Process | Written Exam + SSB Interview |
| Application Fee | ₹100 (Exempted for SC/ST/Women/Sons of JCOs/NCOs/ORs) |
The NDA selection process includes two main stages – a Written Exam followed by the SSB Interview. The written exam consists of Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). Candidates who qualify for the written test are called for the SSB interview, which is conducted in two stages focusing on intelligence, personality, and leadership qualities.
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is held twice a year by the Indian Air Force to recruit candidates for Flying, Technical, and Non-Technical branches.
| Qualification | Graduation with 60% or Engineering Degree |
|---|---|
| Conducted By | Indian Air Force |
| Age Limit | 20 to 24 years |
| Gender | Male & Female |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Post | Class 1 Gazetted Officer |
| Application Fee | ₹550 |
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is another esteemed route to join the Indian Air Force after graduation. Conducted twice a year by the UPSC, the CDS exam recruits candidates into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). If you're a graduate with a science background and a passion to soar high, the CDS exam offers the perfect gateway to an officer’s life in the Air Force.
| Qualification | Graduation (with Physics & Math in 12th or Engineering Degree) |
|---|---|
| Exam Level | National |
| Post | Flying Officer |
| Conducted By | UPSC |
| Age Limit | 19 to 24 years |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Gender | Male |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Selection Process | Written Exam + SSB Interview |
| Application Fee | ₹200 (Exempted for SC/ST/Women) |
The NCC Special Entry Scheme is a direct way to join the Indian Air Force for candidates who have completed NCC Air Wing Senior Division ‘C’ Certificate with an 'A' or 'B' grade. This route doesn’t require appearing for a written exam. Eligible candidates are directly shortlisted for the SSB Interview. This makes it a fast-track way to become an officer if you have excelled in NCC during your academic life.
| Qualification | Graduation with minimum 60% marks and NCC ‘C’ Certificate (Air Wing) |
|---|---|
| Exam Level | Direct SSB Call (No written exam) |
| Post | Flying Officer |
| Conducted By | Indian Air Force (through AFCAT portal) |
| Age Limit | 19 to 24 years |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Gender | Male and Female |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Selection Process | SSB Interview Only |
| Application Fee | No fee required |
Let Uttam Career Institute (UCI) help you build a strong foundation for your Air Force dream. We prepare you with complete dedication so you can proudly wear the Indian Air Force uniform one day.
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