AFCAT Preparation Strategy · Guide 7 of 7
AFCAT Preparation Strategy
Dates, vacancies and fees can change. Always confirm on the official AFCAT website before you apply.
AFCAT is very "trainable": its sections are predictable and most questions are short. Three months of steady practice – about two to three hours a day – is enough for a competitive score if you focus on accuracy.
The 3-month plan
| Weeks | Focus | Daily target |
|---|---|---|
| 1–4 | Basics: grammar rules and vocabulary; arithmetic chapters; verbal reasoning types; daily news reading | 30 English + 20 maths + 20 reasoning questions |
| 5–8 | Spatial reasoning (figures, mirror images, cubes); static GK and defence GK; cloze tests and comprehension | Sectional timed sets; 1 full mock a week |
| 9–12 | Full mocks, accuracy analysis, revision of weak areas, last 6 months' current affairs | 2–3 full mocks a week |
Attempt strategy for +3 / −1 marking
- Attempt every question you are sure of. Attempt a doubtful one only if you can eliminate at least two options – with one option eliminated, guessing does not pay on average.
- Aim for 85–90% accuracy. Track it in every mock.
- Suggested order: English and reasoning first (fast and scoring), then numerical ability, then general awareness.
Most important topics
- Reasoning & military aptitude: series, analogy, coding, embedded figures, mirror and water images, cubes, pattern completion
- Verbal ability: synonyms, antonyms, idioms, error detection, cloze test
- Numerical ability: percentage, average, ratio, profit and loss, speed and distance, time and work
- General awareness: IAF aircraft, ranks and commands, joint exercises, gallantry awards, national parks, sports and books
AFSB and CPSS preparation
- OIR and PP&DT: practise verbal and non-verbal reasoning sets and narrate short stories from pictures in under a minute.
- Psychology: practise writing quick, positive and practical WAT and SRT responses.
- CPSS (Flying): it tests instrument reading, coordination and multitasking, and can be taken only once in a lifetime. Learn to read basic flight instruments (altimeter, artificial horizon, airspeed indicator) and practise hand–eye coordination games.
- Interview: know your education, your hometown, current affairs and the IAF well – its aircraft, history and role.
Fitness and medicals
- Build up to a comfortable 4 km run, push-ups, sit-ups and rope climbing for the group tasks.
- Pilots must meet strict eyesight and body-measurement standards – check them in the notification before you choose the Flying branch.
AFCAT FAQs
Can women apply for AFCAT?
Yes. Women are eligible for all branches, including Flying, with separate vacancies.
Is there an age relaxation for the Flying branch?
The upper age limit is 24 years, relaxed up to 26 years for holders of a valid DGCA Commercial Pilot Licence.
Can I apply for both Flying and Ground Duty?
Yes, you can give preferences for more than one branch if you meet the eligibility for each. Flying candidates who fail the CPSS can be considered for their other preferences.
Is there sectional cut-off?
The Air Force decides the minimum marks for the AFSB call in each cycle; the overall cut-off is what matters. Aim for 70%+ of the maximum in mocks to be safe.