Indian Air Force Agniveervayu & Airmen Group Y Recruitment 2026 has opened registrations for two distinct career paths in the IAF. With a combined online exam scheduled for 22-23 September 2026, this recruitment offers unmarried candidates aged 17-24 the opportunity to join either the four-year Agnipath Scheme or the regular 20-year Airmen cadre. Applications are invited from 06 July 2026 through the official CASB portal.
https://www.indianairforce.nic.in is the official website for further details and updates.
Indian Air Force Recruitment 2026 | Quick Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Body | Indian Air Force (CASB) |
| Posts | Agniveervayu Intake 02/2027 and Airmen Medical Assistant 02/2027 |
| Total Vacancies | As per official notification |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Eligibility | Unmarried candidates; Science/Non-Science qualification as per trade |
| Registration Start | 06 July 2026, 1100 Hrs |
| Registration End | 26 July 2026, 2300 Hrs |
| Official Portal | iafrecruitment.edcil.co.in |
Important Dates for IAF Recruitment 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Registration Begins | 06/07/2026, 1100 Hrs |
| Online Registration Ends | 26/07/2026, 2300 Hrs |
| Online Examination (Phase I) | 22-23/09/2026 |
| Provisional Select List | Last week of May 2027 |
| Enrolment List Publication | After 01/06/2027 |
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility requirements differ for Agniveervayu and Airmen Medical Assistant trades. Both require candidates to meet age, educational, and marital status conditions specified below.
Agniveervayu applicants must be unmarried and born between 01 July 2005 and 01 January 2010. Airmen Medical Assistant candidates must be unmarried (with limited exceptions for Diploma/Pharmacy graduates) and born between 01 July 2003 and 01 July 2010 depending on qualification.
Age Limit for Agniveervayu
Candidates born between 01 July 2005 and 01 January 2010 (both dates inclusive) are eligible. The upper age limit at the time of enrolment must not exceed 22 years if all selection stages are cleared.
Age Limit for Airmen Medical Assistant
| Qualification Route | Date of Birth Block | Upper Age at Enrolment |
|---|---|---|
| 10+2 (unmarried) | 01 July 2006 to 01 July 2010 | 21 years |
| Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc Pharmacy (unmarried) | 01 July 2003 to 01 July 2008 | 24 years |
| Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc Pharmacy (married) | 01 July 2003 to 01 July 2006 | 24 years |
Educational Qualifications for Agniveervayu
| Stream | Required Qualification |
|---|---|
| Science Subjects | 10+2/Intermediate with Maths, Physics & English (50% aggregate + 50% in English) OR 3-year Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical/Electrical/Electronics/Automobile/Computer Science/Instrumentation/IT) with 50% marks OR 2-year Vocational Course with Physics & Maths (50% marks) |
| Other than Science | 10+2/Intermediate in any stream (50% aggregate + 50% in English) OR 2-year Vocational Course (50% aggregate + 50% in English) |
Candidates meeting Science Subjects criteria may opt to appear for both Science and Other-than-Science papers in a single sitting during registration.
Educational Qualifications for Airmen Medical Assistant
10+2 Route: Passed 10+2/Intermediate with Physics, Chemistry, Biology & English with minimum 50% aggregate and 50% in English (or equivalent 2-year Vocational Course with the same non-vocational subjects).
Diploma/Pharmacy Route: Passed 10+2/Intermediate with PCB & English (50% aggregate, 50% English) plus a Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc in Pharmacy with minimum 50% marks, along with valid registration from the State Pharmacy Council or Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) at the time of enrolment.
Marital Status & Other Conditions
Agniveervayu posts require unmarried candidates who must undertake not to marry during the four-year engagement period. Female candidates must additionally undertake not to become pregnant during service, as either circumstance can lead to dismissal.
Airmen Medical Assistant posts accept unmarried candidates; married candidates are eligible only under the Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc Pharmacy route with specific age brackets.
Domicile Categories for Agniveervayu
Candidates must select one domicile category at registration, which cannot be changed. Shortlisting and Provisional Select Lists are prepared state-wise:
- Permanent Domicile: Permanent residents of the State/UT, supported by a Domicile Certificate from a Gazetted Revenue Officer.
- COAFP-I: Children of currently serving Air Force personnel posted in the relevant State/UT.
- COAFP-II: Children of retired/discharged/deceased Air Force personnel residing in the State/UT for a minimum of one year.
Is This Recruitment Right for You?
- You are an unmarried male or female (up to age 23/24 depending on qualification) seeking a defence career.
- You have completed 10+2/Intermediate with required subjects and meet the specified percentage criteria.
- You can commit to a four-year engagement under Agnipath Scheme (Agniveervayu) or a 20-year regular service (Medical Assistant).
- You meet the prescribed height, chest, vision, hearing, and dental standards.
- You are willing to undergo physical fitness testing and medical examination as part of selection.
Physical & Medical Standards
Height & Visual Standards
| Criteria | Agniveervayu | Medical Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Height (Male) | 152 cms | 152 cms |
| Minimum Height (Female) | 152 cms (147 cms for NE/hilly Uttarakhand; 150 cms for Lakshadweep) | Not Applicable |
| Visual Acuity | 6/12 each eye, correctable to 6/6 | 6/36 each eye, correctable to 6/6 |
| Refractive Error Limit | Hypermetropia +2.0D, Myopia -1D (incl. ±0.50D Astigmatism) | Not exceeding +3.50D incl. Astigmatism |
| Colour Vision | CP-II | CP-II |
Other Medical Standards
Chest measurement (male) must be a minimum 77 cms with at least 5 cms expansion. Female Agniveervayu candidates require a minimum 5 cms chest expansion. Candidates must hear a forced whisper from 6 metres in each ear separately. Dental health must include healthy gums and a minimum of 14 dental points; orthodontic appliances and dental implants are disqualifying. LASIK/PRK surgery history disqualifies both posts. Permanent tattoos are restricted to the inner forearm and back of the hand only; offensive tattoos disqualify regardless of location.
Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
| Test | Agniveervayu Male | Agniveervayu Female | Medical Assistant |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 km run | Within 7 minutes | Within 8 minutes | 7 min (up to 21 yrs) / 7 min 30 sec (Diploma/Pharmacy) |
| Push-ups | 10 in 1 minute | Not required | 10 in 1 minute |
| Sit-ups | 10 in 1 minute | 10 in 1 min 30 sec | 10 in 1 minute |
| Squats | 20 in 1 minute | 15 in 1 minute | 20 in 1 minute |
Pay Scale and Benefits
Agniveervayu Package (Agnipath Scheme)
| Year | Monthly Package | In-Hand (70%) | Agniveer Corpus Contribution | GoI Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Year | ₹30,000 | ₹21,000 | ₹9,000 | ₹9,000 |
| 2nd Year | ₹33,000 | ₹23,100 | ₹9,900 | ₹9,900 |
| 3rd Year | ₹36,500 | ₹25,550 | ₹10,950 | ₹10,950 |
| 4th Year | ₹40,000 | ₹28,000 | ₹12,000 | ₹12,000 |
Upon completion of four years, Agniveervayu personnel receive a one-time Seva Nidhi package of approximately ₹10.04 lakh (excluding interest) and non-contributory life insurance cover of ₹48 lakh during engagement. They receive no gratuity, pension, or Provident Fund contributions, and do not qualify for Ex-Servicemen (ESM) status after discharge. Up to 25% of each batch may be offered the opportunity to apply for the regular Airmen cadre based on performance.
Airmen Medical Assistant Salary & Allowances
Training Stipend: ₹14,600 per month during the training period.
Post-Training Salary: Starting gross emoluments of minimum ₹26,900 per month including Military Service Pay, plus applicable Dearness Allowance.
Additional Allowances: Transport Allowance, CPMA, Leave Ration Allowance, Children Education Allowance, HRA, and other applicable benefits.
Leave: 60 days annual leave and 30 days casual leave per calendar year.
Insurance: Group Insurance cover of ₹62.5 lakh at a premium of ₹3,200/month.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| All Candidates | ₹550 + 18% GST (₹649 total) |
The examination fee is non-refundable under any circumstances, including for duplicate or rejected applications. Payment can be made via Net Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card, or UPI through the official portal.
Selection Process for IAF Recruitment 2026
Phase I: Online Written Test
| Post/Stream | Duration | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Agniveervayu (Science) | 60 minutes | Physics, Mathematics, English |
| Agniveervayu (Other than Science) | 45 minutes | English, Reasoning & General Awareness |
| Agniveervayu (Both Streams) | 85 minutes | Physics, Mathematics, English, RAGA |
| Airmen Medical Assistant | 45 minutes | English, Reasoning & General Awareness |
Marking Scheme: +1 mark for each correct answer, 0 for unattempted questions, and -0.25 for each wrong answer. Marks may be normalised to account for difficulty variation across exam sessions. Candidates must qualify in each subject/paper individually.
Phase II: Physical Fitness & Adaptability Tests
Shortlisted candidates undergo the Physical Fitness Test (1.6 km run, push-ups, sit-ups, squats) followed by two written Adaptability Tests assessing suitability for military life and adjustment to Air Force working conditions and environments.
Phase III: Medical Examination
Candidates clearing Adaptability Test-II undergo detailed medical examination by the Air Force Medical Team, including blood haemogram, urine tests, biochemistry profile (blood sugar, cholesterol, kidney & liver function), chest X-ray, and ECG. Candidates declared unfit may appeal via an Appeal Medical Board by depositing ₹40.
How to Apply for IAF Agniveervayu & Airmen Recruitment 2026
Applications are submitted entirely online in two steps through the CASB portal at iafrecruitment.edcil.co.in.
- Visit the official CASB recruitment portal: iafrecruitment.edcil.co.in
- Click on the Agniveervayu or Airmen Medical Assistant link as applicable.
- Enter personal and contact details, then click “Generate OTP.”
- Verify mobile number and email ID using the OTPs received on both.
- Agree to terms & conditions, re-verify entered details, and click “Submit.”
- Receive User ID and Password via email and SMS.
- Log in using credentials and click “Go To Application.”
- Fill in personal, communication, and qualification details accurately.
- Upload scanned photograph, signature, parent’s signature (if under 18), and left thumb impression as per specified size and format guidelines.
- Capture a live photo via webcam for face-match verification.
- Preview the complete form, correct any errors, and click “Submit.”
- Proceed to pay the examination fee of ₹550 + 18% GST through the payment gateway.
- Print and retain a copy of the final submitted application form for future reference.
Candidates must indicate five preferred examination city choices while filling out the application. Once submitted, the application cannot be withdrawn, and the fee is non-refundable.
Documents Required for Phase II Testing
Shortlisted candidates must carry original documents along with self-attested photocopies for verification at the Airmen Selection Centre (ASC):
- Colour printout of the Phase-II Admit Card and the filled application form
- Eight passport-size colour photographs (same as used in registration)
- Matriculation passing certificate and marksheet
- 10+2/Intermediate/Diploma/Vocational passing certificate and marksheets
- Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc Pharmacy certificate (Medical Assistant Diploma route only)
- Domicile/COAFP Certificate (Agniveervayu) or SOAFP Certificate, if applicable (Medical Assistant)
- Original Phase-I Admit Card bearing the Air Force seal and the invigilator’s signature
- NCC ‘A’/’B’/’C’ Certificate, if applicable
- HB pencil, eraser, sharpener, glue stick, stapler, and black/blue ball pen
DigiLocker-verified certificates are accepted provided candidates carry a printout along with an accessible mobile device for verification.
What Happens After You Apply
- Application window closes on 26/07/2026 at 2300 Hrs.
- Phase I (Online Written Test) is scheduled for 22-23/09/2026. Admit cards will be released on the official portal before the exam date.
- Phase II (Physical Fitness & Adaptability Tests) follows for shortlisted candidates as per official schedule.
- Phase III (Medical Examination) occurs after Adaptability Test clearance.The
- Provisional Select List (PSL) will be published in the last week of May 2027.
- The final enrolment list is published after 01/06/2027.
- Successful candidates report for training and enrolment.
About the Agniveervayu & Airmen Roles
Agniveervayu personnel serve in combat and support roles within the Indian Air Force under the four-year Agnipath Scheme, gaining valuable operational experience in one of the nation’s most prestigious defence organizations. The role demands high physical fitness, mental resilience, and a commitment to national security. Air Force personnel operate in demanding field environments and high-pressure situations, requiring quick decision-making and adherence to strict military discipline. Airmen Medical Assistant personnel provide essential healthcare support within the Air Force, managing medical stores, assisting in ward supervision, and delivering first-aid services. This 20-year regular cadre role offers stability, career progression, and comprehensive service benefits, positioning the individual within India’s defence healthcare infrastructure. Both roles represent service to the nation and offer pathways to leadership in subsequent career stages.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
- Uploading a photograph or signature outside the specified size, format, or dimensions as per guidelines – the form will be rejected during document verification.
- Selecting an incorrect domicile category (Agniveervayu only), which cannot be changed after registration and affects state-wise shortlisting.
- Failing to indicate five preferred examination city choices – defaulting to a random centre assigned by the board.
- Submitting the application in the final hours of the last date (26 July 2026) – portal traffic peaks sharply near the deadline, causing session timeouts and submission failures.
- Entering personal or qualification details incorrectly; correction is not possible after submission.
- Not capturing the live photo via webcam properly – face-match verification will fail if the image quality is poor or face is not clearly visible.
Important Points to Note
Mobile phones, smartwatches, and electronic devices are strictly prohibited in testing areas during Phase-I and Phase-II; violators face permanent debarment. No Travel Allowance (TA) or Daily Allowance (DA) is provided for travel to certificate verification or medical examination at any stage. Requests for change of exam centre, date, or medical examination centre will not be entertained after submission. Inclusion in the Provisional Select List (PSL) does not guarantee enrolment; it remains valid for six months from the date of display. Selection is merit-based – no bribe or intermediary is required at any stage. Candidates should beware of impersonators and unauthorized agents claiming to assist in recruitment. Corrigenda or updates are published only on the official CASB portal, not through newspapers or other media.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the key difference between Agniveervayu and Airmen Medical Assistant posts?
Ans. Agniveervayu is a four-year engagement under the Agnipath Scheme with a one-time Seva Nidhi package and no pension, while Airmen Medical Assistant is a regular 20-year cadre with pension, gratuity, and career growth opportunities. Agniveervayu candidates receive an in-hand monthly salary ranging from ₹21,000 to ₹28,000, whereas Medical Assistant trainees earn ₹14,600 during training and ₹26,900+ post-training as regular employees.
Q2. I am married. Can I apply for either post?
Ans. For Agniveervayu, marriage disqualifies all candidates. For Airmen Medical Assistant, married candidates are eligible only if they hold a Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc Pharmacy qualification and were born between 01 July 2003 and 01 July 2006.
Q3. What are the physical fitness test standards for female candidates?
Ans. Female Agniveervayu candidates must complete a 1.6 km run within 8 minutes, 10 sit-ups in 1 minute 30 seconds, 15 squats in 1 minute, and a minimum 5 cms chest expansion. Push-ups are not required for females. Medical Assistant posts do not recruit females.
Q4. Can I change my domicile category after registration?
Ans. No. The domicile category selected at registration cannot be changed. Shortlisting and the Provisional Select List are prepared state-wise based on your domicile choice, so select carefully during the registration process.
Q5. Is the application fee refundable?
Ans. No. The examination fee of ₹550 + 18% GST (₹649 total) is non-refundable under any circumstances, including for duplicate applications, rejected applications, or withdrawal requests.
Q6. What happens if I fail to clear the Physical Fitness Test?
Ans. Candidates who do not meet the required timings or standards in the Physical Fitness Test are not selected for the subsequent Adaptability Tests or medical examination. There is no re-test opportunity.
Q7. Can I appear for both Science and Other-than-Science papers in Agniveervayu?
Ans. Yes. Candidates who meet the Science Subjects eligibility may opt to appear for both Science and Other-than-Science papers in a single sitting (85 minutes total) during registration. This provides flexibility in attempting questions across both streams.
Q8. What is the Provisional Select List (PSL), and does it guarantee enrolment?
Ans. The Provisional Select List is a merit-based shortlist published in the last week of May 2027 for candidates who clear all selection phases. PSL inclusion is not a guarantee of enrolment; it remains valid for six months, and final enrolment depends on document verification, medical clearance, and administrative approval.
Your Next Step
Eligible candidates must register and submit their application via the official CASB portal before 26 July 2026 at 2300 Hrs. Early submission is advisable to avoid technical issues near the deadline. After the application window closes, the online examination will be conducted on 22-23 September 2026, followed by physical fitness tests, adaptability assessments, and medical examination for shortlisted candidates. Follow our free job alert service to receive timely notifications about admit card releases, result announcements, and other recruitment updates from the Indian Air Force.
Important Links
| Particulars | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Apply Now |
| Download Official Notification | Download Notification |
| Additional Information PDF | Visit Here |
| Official Website | Visit Website |
