Indian Air Force Pharmacist Recruitment 2026 invites unmarried male Indian and Gorkha nationals to apply for Medical Assistant posts under Airmen Intake 02/2027. The Central Airmen Selection Board (CASB) will conduct online registration from 06 July 2026 to 26 July 2026, with the written examination scheduled for 22-23 September 2026. Candidates with 10+2 qualification or Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc in Pharmacy are eligible to apply.
The recruitment offers a starting gross salary of Rs. 26,900 per month post-training, along with comprehensive Air Force benefits including medical facilities, accommodation, and a Group Insurance Cover of Rs. 62.5 Lakhs. Selected candidates will serve for an initial 20-year tenure, extendable up to age 57.
Visit the official recruitment portal at https://iafrecruitment.edcil.co.in to register and submit your application before the deadline closes on 26 July 2026.
IAF Medical Assistant Recruitment 2026 | Quick Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Authority | Indian Air Force (Central Airmen Selection Board) |
| Trade | Group ‘Y’ Non-Technical Medical Assistant |
| Intake | Airmen Intake 02/2027 |
| Eligible Candidates | Unmarried Male Indian/Gorkha |
| Total Vacancies | As per the official notification |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | https://iafrecruitment.edcil.co.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date/Timing |
|---|---|
| Online Registration Opens | 06 July 2026 at 1100 Hr |
| Online Registration Closes | 26 July 2026 at 2300 Hr |
| Online Examination (Phase-I) | 22-23 September 2026 |
| Provisional Select List Publication | Last week of May 2027 |
| Enrolment List Publication | 01 June 2027 |
No extension of registration dates will be granted. Candidates must complete their application before 26 July 2026 at 2300 hours.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates applying for the Indian Air Force Pharmacist Recruitment 2026 must be unmarried males with either a 10+2 qualification or a Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc in Pharmacy, meeting the specified age brackets outlined below.
Age Limit
| Qualification Stream | Date of Birth Range | Age on Enrolment |
|---|---|---|
| 10+2 / Intermediate / Vocational Course | 01 July 2006 to 01 July 2010 | Maximum 21 years |
| Diploma / B.Pharma / B.Sc in Pharmacy (Unmarried) | 01 July 2003 to 01 July 2008 | Maximum 24 years |
| Diploma / B.Pharma / B.Sc in Pharmacy (Married) | 01 July 2003 to 01 July 2006 | Maximum 21 years |
As per the official IAF notification, the exact date of birth (both inclusive) determines eligibility. Candidates born outside these windows are not eligible, regardless of other qualifications.
Educational Qualification
Stream 1: 10+2 Candidates
Candidates must have passed 10+2/Intermediate or equivalent qualification with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English from a Board recognised by Central, State, or UT authorities. Minimum aggregate marks of 50% and a minimum 50% in English are mandatory. Alternatively, a two-year vocational course with the same non-vocational subjects and percentage criteria is accepted.
Stream 2: Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc in Pharmacy Candidates
In addition to passing 10+2/Intermediate with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English (minimum 50% aggregate and 50% in English), candidates must hold a Diploma/B.Pharma/B.A Sc in Pharmacy with at least 50% aggregate marks. Valid registration with the State Pharmacy Council or the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) is mandatory at the time of enrolment. Marks are considered as printed on the marksheet without rounding-for example, 49.99% counts as 49%, not 50%.
Who Should Consider This Recruitment?
- Unmarried male candidates aged 16 to 24 years are eligible based on their qualification stream (10+2 candidates up to 21 years; Diploma/Pharmacy candidates up to 24 years).
- Candidates with 10+2 including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English meet the basic educational requirement without needing further qualification.
- Pharmacy graduates with valid PCI/State Pharmacy Council registration are eligible for faster career progression under the Diploma/B.Pharma stream.
- Candidates willing to serve 20 years initially, extendable to age 57, in the Indian Air Force should apply.
- Indian nationals and Gorkha nationals (subjects of Nepal) are both eligible to apply.
Medical and Physical Standards
Candidates must meet the following medical and physical fitness standards mandated by the Indian Air Force. Failure to meet any standard results in rejection at the respective stage.
| Parameter | Standard |
|---|---|
| Minimum Height | 152 cm |
| Maximum Refractive Error | Not exceeding +3.50D including Astigmatism |
| Visual Acuity | 6/36 each eye, correctable to 6/6 each eye |
| Colour Vision | CP-II |
| Minimum Chest Circumference | 77 cm with at least 5 cm expansion |
| Hearing | Able to hear a forced whisper from 6 metres in each ear separately |
| Dental | Minimum 14 dental points; orthodontic appliances not permitted |
Additional medical criteria include zero tolerance for narcotic drug use or alcoholism. Permanent body tattoos are restricted except in specific arm and hand locations as per Air Force policy. Candidates with a history of LASIK or PRK surgery are disqualified.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| All Candidates | Rs. 550 + 18% GST (Rs. 649 total) |
| Nature of Fee | Non-refundable under any circumstances |
| Payment Modes Accepted | Net Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI |
Salary, Pay Scale, and Benefits
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Stipend During Training | Rs. 14,600 per month |
| Starting Gross Salary (Post-Training, Minimum) | Rs. 26,900 per month |
| Additional Allowances | Dearness Allowance, Transport Allowance, Composite Personal Maintenance Allowance, Leave Ration Allowance, Children Education Allowance, HRA |
| Other Benefits | Ration, Clothing, Medical Facilities, Accommodation, CSD Facilities |
| Annual Leave | 60 days annual leave + 30 days casual leave |
| Leave Travel Concession | Eligible under the LTC scheme |
| Group Insurance Cover | Rs. 62.5 Lakhs at Rs. 3,200 monthly premium |
As an entry-level Group Y (non-technical) post, the Medical Assistant role provides comprehensive government service benefits, pension eligibility after 20 years, and opportunities for career advancement within the Air Force hierarchy.
About the Medical Assistant Role
Medical Assistants in the Indian Air Force work in nursing and first-aid capacities, managing medical stores, dispensaries, and ward supervision while performing other Air Force duties as assigned by superior officers. The role combines clinical and administrative responsibilities, supporting the health and welfare of Air Force personnel across various operational and non-operational bases. Selected candidates undergo initial Joint Basic Phase Training (JBPT) followed by trade-specific medical training, which may include security training relevant to Air Force operations. As a Group Y non-technical post, Medical Assistants support the critical medical infrastructure of the Air Force, with career progression opportunities based on performance and service tenure.
Tenure and Service Commitment
Selected candidates undergo the following service conditions:
- Initial enrolment period: 20 years from the date of enrolment, extendable up to age 57 years, subject to Air Force service conditions and individual performance.
- Candidates undergo Joint Basic Phase Training (JBPT) followed by trade-specific training; the exact duration is determined by the Air Force.
- The allotted Medical Assistant trade cannot be changed on a candidate’s request under any circumstances.
- Unmarried candidates cannot marry until completion of ab-initio (foundational) training.
- Candidates are not permitted to stay with their families during the training period.
- Serving government employees require a No-Objection Certificate (NOC); ex-servicemen must provide a Discharge Certificate.
Selection Process for Indian Air Force Pharmacist Recruitment 2026
The recruitment follows a three-phase selection procedure consisting of a written examination, physical and adaptability tests with document verification, and a detailed medical examination.
Phase I: Online Written Test
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 45 minutes |
| Subjects | English (as per 10+2 CBSE syllabus) and Reasoning & General Awareness (RAGA) |
| Marking Scheme | +1 for correct answer, 0 for unattempted, -0.25 for each wrong answer |
| Qualification Criteria | Must qualify in each paper separately; marks normalised across sessions |
Phase-II: Physical Fitness Test, Adaptability Test, and Document Verification
Physical Fitness Test (PFT-I):
| Test | Time Limit (up to 21 years) | Time Limit (Above 21 years / Diploma-Pharmacy) |
|---|---|---|
| 1.6 km run | Within 7 minutes | Within 7 minutes and 30 seconds |
After completing the 1.6 km run, candidates who qualify undergo PFT-II following a 10-minute recovery break. PFT-II consists of 10 push-ups, 10 sit-ups, and 20 squats, each completed within one minute with short breaks between exercises.
Adaptability Tests and Document Verification:
Candidates passing the Physical Fitness Test proceed to Adaptability Test-I (objective written test). Those clearing Adaptability Test-I advance to the Adaptability Test-II as per the current policy. Document verification of educational certificates and other credentials is conducted during Phase II at the designated Airmen Selection Centre (ASC).
Phase-III: Medical Examination
Candidates who qualify the Adaptability Test-II receive a medical appointment letter and undergo a detailed medical examination by the Air Force Medical Team, including:
- Blood haemogram and urine routine examination
- Biochemistry tests (blood sugar, serum cholesterol, RFT, LFT)
- Chest radiograph and ECG
Candidates declared medically unfit may apply for an Appeal Medical Board (AMB) by depositing Rs. 40 within three working days of the medical examination result.
How to Apply for Indian Air Force Pharmacist Recruitment 2026
- Visit the official CASB recruitment portal at https://iafrecruitment.edcil.co.in.
- Click on the link for Airmen Intake 02/2027 Medical Assistant Trade recruitment.
- Register yourself by creating a new account with a valid email address and mobile number.
- Fill in the online application form with accurate personal, educational, and contact information.
- Select five examination city choices in order of preference.
- Select fourteen Airmen Selection Centre (ASC) choices for Phase-II in order of preference.
- Upload a recent colour photograph (same size as used during registration), signature, and other required documents as specified.
- Pay the application fee of Rs. 649 (Rs. 550 + 18% GST) via Net Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card, or UPI.
- Submit the completed application form before 26 July 2026 at 2300 hours.
- Save and print the confirmation page for your records.
Complete your application at least two days before the deadline to avoid last-minute portal congestion and session timeouts. Verify all personal details, examination city preferences, and ASC choices carefully before final submission, as corrections after submission are extremely limited.
Documents Required for Phase-II Testing
When reporting for Phase-II examination, candidates must carry the following original and certified documents:
- Colour printout of Phase-II Admit Card and original Phase-I Admit Card (both mandatory)
- Colour printout of the duly completed online application form
- HB pencil, eraser, sharpener, glue stick, stapler, and black or blue ballpoint pen
- Eight unattested passport-size colour photographs (identical to the photograph used during online registration)
- Original or DigiLocker-verified printout and four self-attested photocopies of the matriculation (10th) certificate
- Original or DigiLocker-verified printout and four self-attested photocopies of 10+2/Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc Pharmacy certificates and marksheets
- NCC ‘A’, ‘B’, or ‘C’ certificate, if applicable (scanned and uploaded during registration)
- No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from current employer for serving government employees, or Discharge Certificate for ex-servicemen (if applicable)
- Original AADHAAR Card (mandatory for Phase-I examination as well)
What Happens After You Apply
- Online registration closes on 26 July 2026 at 2300 hours.
- Phase-I (Online Written Test) scheduled for 22-23 September 2026; admit cards released on the official portal.
- Phase-II (Physical Fitness Test, Adaptability Test, and Document Verification) was conducted at designated Airmen Selection Centres following Phase-I qualification.
- Phase-III (Medical Examination) scheduled for candidates clearing Phase-II; medical appointment letters issued.The
- Provisional Select List (PSL) was published in the last week of May 2027.
- Final Enrolment List published on 01 June 2027; selected candidates receive joining instructions.
Important General Instructions
- Candidates must indicate five examination city choices and fourteen ASC choices in order of preference during registration; changes will not be entertained after submission.
- Mobile phones, smart watches, and all electronic devices are strictly prohibited inside examination halls during Phase I and Phase II testing.
- Candidates previously discharged from the Indian Air Force for any reason are permanently ineligible to reapply.
- No bribery or financial transaction is required at any recruitment stage; candidates should remain vigilant against unscrupulous agents falsely claiming to facilitate recruitment.
- All corrigenda, updates, and official communications are published exclusively on the CASB web portal; candidates should not rely on newspaper advertisements or third-party websites.
Important Links
| Particulars | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Recruitment Portal | Apply Now |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the deadline to apply for the Indian Air Force Pharmacist Recruitment 2026?
Ans. The online registration deadline is 26 July 2026 at 2300 hours. No extension will be granted, so candidates must complete their application well before this time.
Q2. Am I eligible if I have a B.Pharma degree but am married?
Ans. Married candidates with a Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc in Pharmacy are eligible only if their date of birth falls between 01 July 2003 and 01 July 2006 (maximum age 21 years on enrolment). Unmarried pharmacy graduates can be up to 24 years old on enrolment.
Q3. What is the total cost of applying, including all fees and GST?
Ans. The total application fee is Rs. 649, comprising the examination fee of Rs. 550 plus 18% GST. This fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.
Q4. Can I change my examination city or ASC choice after submitting my application?
Ans. No, requests for changes in examination centre, date, or ASC choice are not entertained after application submission. Candidates must carefully select their five examination city preferences and fourteen ASC preferences during registration itself.
Q5. What happens if I fail the Physical Fitness Test in Phase II?
Ans. Candidates who fail the 1.6 km run are not allowed to proceed further in the selection process. There is no resit opportunity within the same recruitment cycle. However, candidates may apply in future recruitment notifications if they continue to meet eligibility criteria.
Q6. Is LASIK or PRK eye surgery permitted for Medical Assistant candidates?
Ans. No, candidates with a history of LASIK or PRK surgery are automatically disqualified during medical examination. Candidates must meet the visual acuity standards (6/36 each eye, correctable to 6/6) without refractive surgery.
Q7. What is the initial salary I will receive after completing training?
Ans. The starting gross salary post-training is Rs. 26,900 per month (minimum scale including Minimum Support Price). During the training period, candidates receive a stipend of Rs. 14,600 per month.
Q8. Can unmarried candidates marry during the training period?
Ans. No, unmarried candidates are strictly not permitted to marry until completion of ab-initio training. This is a mandatory service condition. Candidates who marry during training face disciplinary action or discharge.
Your Next Step
Eligible candidates should complete their online registration on the official CASB portal before 26 July 2026 at 2300 hours. Once the application window closes, the recruitment board will release Phase-I admit cards for the written examination scheduled for 22-23 September 2026. Stay updated on MyNaukriAlert.com for admit card notifications, exam day announcements, and updates on Phase-II scheduling.
