Defence & Police · Updated October 2026
Air Force Agniveer ExamEligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Salary, Cut-Off, PYQs and Free Mock Test
Indian Air Force Agniveer
Agniveervayu recruitment inducts young men and women into the Indian Air Force for a four-year term under the Agnipath scheme. The selection is conducted by the Indian Air Force through an online test administered by CDAC, followed by a physical fitness test, adaptability tests and a medical examination.
- Type
- Recruitment
- Level
- National
- Conducting body
- Defence
Start for free with Air Force Agniveer syllabus study notes, solved previous year papers, real-pattern mock tests and AI Tutor support.
Air Force Agniveer exam overview and highlights
About Air Force Agniveer
Agniveervayu recruitment inducts young men and women into the Indian Air Force for a four-year term under the Agnipath scheme. The selection is conducted by the Indian Air Force through an online test administered by CDAC, followed by a physical fitness test, adaptability tests and a medical examination. Candidates can apply under the Science stream, the Other than Science stream, or both.
The examination process for Air Force Agniveer comprises 3 stages: Phase I: Online test, followed by Phase II: Physical fitness test and adaptability tests, followed by Medical examination. The official syllabus tests candidates across 4 core areas — English, Physics, Mathematics, Reasoning and General Awareness (RAGA) — focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. Candidates who clear the online test are called for Phase II, which includes physical fitness tests, adaptability tests and a medical examination. Final merit is based on the online test marks among candidates found fit.
Key subjects
- English
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Reasoning and General Awareness (RAGA)
What clearing Air Force Agniveer leads to
- Agniveervayu (Science subjects) in technical trades
- Agniveervayu (Other than Science subjects) in non-technical trades
- Possible selection into the regular Air Force cadre after four years
- Compensation & Pay Scale: Agniveer package starting around ₹30,000 a month in the first year and rising each year, with a Seva Nidhi lump sum on completing four years
- Central / Institutional appointment through Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) merit recommendation
- Structured time-scale promotions, Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) elevation, and central allowances (DA, HRA, TA, Medical & NPS)
Quick facts
- Full name
- Indian Air Force Agniveer
- Conducting body
- Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC)
- Frequency
- Usually twice a year
- Exam mode
- Online (computer-based test)
- Languages
- English and Hindi (the English section is in English only)
- Stages & papers
- 3 stages (3 papers total)
- Negative marking
- One-fourth of a mark deducted per wrong answer
- Official website
- agnipathvayu.cdac.in
Air Force Agniveer — Key Highlights & Official Particulars
Complete snapshot of Air Force Agniveer conducting authority, frequency, mode, stages, negative marking and official portal.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Air Force Agniveer — Indian Air Force Agniveer |
| Conducting Body | Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) |
| Exam Category | Defence & Police |
| Exam Level | National level |
| Exam Type & Purpose | Recruitment (Direct Recruitment & Cadre Selection) |
| Exam Frequency | Usually twice a year |
| Usual Notification & Exam Window | Usually twice a year: registration around January and July, online tests a few months later, followed by Phase II testing |
| Mode of Application | Online on agnipathvayu.cdac.in |
| Mode of Examination | Online (computer-based test) |
| Medium / Exam Languages | English and Hindi (the English section is in English only) |
| Selection Stages | 3 Stages (3 Papers Total): Phase I: Online test → Phase II: Physical fitness test and adaptability tests → Medical examination |
| Negative Marking | One-fourth of a mark deducted per wrong answer |
| Selection / Merit Process | Candidates who clear the online test are called for Phase II, which includes physical fitness tests, adaptability tests and a medical examination. Final merit is based on the online test marks among candidates found fit. |
| Educational Qualification | Science subjects: Class 12 with Mathematics, Physics and English with at least 50% aggregate and 50% in English, or a three-year engineering diploma, or a two-year vocational course with Physics and Mathematics. Other than Science subjects: Class 12 in any stream with at least 50% aggregate and 50% in English, or a two-year vocational course. |
| Age Limit | Typically 17.5 to 21 years |
| Pay Scale / Salary Structure | Agniveer package starting around ₹30,000 a month in the first year and rising each year, with a Seva Nidhi lump sum on completing four years |
| Merit Panel Validity | Valid for the notified recruitment cycle and reserve list period |
| Competition Scale | Several lakh candidates apply for a few thousand vacancies per intake |
| Official Website | agnipathvayu.cdac.in |
Summary for orientation only, last reviewed October 2026. Check eligibility, dates and pattern in the official notification.
Air Force Agniveer exam schedule, vacancy, fee and online application process
Standard annual cycle and application workflow for Air Force Agniveer. Confirm exact notification and closing dates on the official Defence website.
| Examination Event | Typical Calendar Window | Cycle / Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Air Force Agniveer Official Notification & Information Bulletin | Usually twice a year: registration around January and July, online tests a few months later, followed by Phase II testing | Usually twice a year |
| Online Registration & Application Fee Window | Typically remains open for 21 to 30 days from the date of notification release | Online Portal |
| Application Form Correction / Edit Window | 2 to 5 days immediately following the close of the online registration window | As Notified |
| Exam City Intimation & Admit Card Release | City slip 10–15 days prior; Hall Ticket / E-Admit Card 4 to 10 days before the exam date | Via Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) |
| Air Force Agniveer — Phase I: Online test | Usually twice a year: registration around January and July, online tests a few months later, followed by Phase II testing | Online (computer-based test) |
| Air Force Agniveer — Phase II: Physical fitness test and adaptability tests | Typically 6 to 12 weeks after declaration of Stage 1 results | Shortlisted Candidates |
| Provisional Answer Key & Objection Representation Window | Within 3 to 10 days after completion of the objective examination shifts | Online Challenge |
| Final Answer Key, Normalized Result & Merit List / Scorecard | Typically 3 to 6 weeks after conclusion of the examination stage | Merit List PDF / Login |
- Vacancies & Competition
- Several lakh candidates apply for a few thousand vacancies per intake. Exact post-wise, department-wise, and category-wise (UR, EWS, OBC, SC, ST, ESM, PwBD) vacancies are notified in the official Air Force Agniveer recruitment advertisement published by Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC).
- Application Fee & Payment Norms
- Payable online via Debit/Credit Card, UPI, or Net Banking on the Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) portal. Statutory fee concessions or exemptions apply for SC, ST, PwBD, Ex-Servicemen, and eligible female/state-reserved categories as notified in the official Air Force Agniveer advertisement.
How to apply online for Air Force Agniveer
One-Time Registration (OTR) & Portal Login
Visit agnipathvayu.cdac.in and complete your candidate registration using a valid email ID, active mobile number, and Aadhaar / government photo ID details. Online on agnipathvayu.cdac.in.
Fill Academic, Personal & Exam Centre Preferences
Log in to open the Air Force Agniveer application form. Enter your qualifying degree/board details, category/reservation status, medium of examination (English and Hindi (the English section is in English only)), and choose 3 to 4 preferred test cities.
Upload Photograph, Signature & Category Certificates
Upload a recent passport-size photograph (in prescribed KB dimensions and light background), scanned running-hand signature, and valid SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwBD/Domicile certificates where applicable.
Online Application Fee Payment & Confirmation Page
Pay the category-wise examination fee via UPI, Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or e-Challan before the closing deadline, then download and preserve the final Air Force Agniveer Confirmation Page / Application PDF for admit card and verification stages.
Air Force Agniveer eligibility criteria and age relaxation
Candidates applying for Air Force Agniveer must fulfil the academic qualification, age limit, nationality and category reservation rules notified by Defence.
Educational qualification
Science subjects: Class 12 with Mathematics, Physics and English with at least 50% aggregate and 50% in English, or a three-year engineering diploma, or a two-year vocational course with Physics and Mathematics. Other than Science subjects: Class 12 in any stream with at least 50% aggregate and 50% in English, or a two-year vocational course.
Age limit & relaxations
Typically 17.5 to 21 years.
Number of attempts
Unlimited attempts permitted as long as the candidate remains within the eligible category-wise upper age limit as on the crucial cut-off date.
Nationality & domicile
Indian citizen (with specified exceptions).
Other conditions & standards
Unmarried male and female candidates. Minimum height is usually 152.5 cm, with specified chest expansion, vision and hearing standards. The PFT includes a 1.6 km run (within about 7 minutes for men and 8 minutes for women), push-ups, sit-ups and squats.
Air Force Agniveer — Category-Wise Upper Age Relaxation & Reservation Norms
| Category | Age Relaxation / Rule | Key Conditions & Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) (Central Government Norms) | +5 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Requires valid SC/ST certificate in the prescribed Government of India format. |
| Other Backward Classes — Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL) (Central Government Norms) | +3 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Candidate must fall outside the Creamy Layer as on the crucial closing date of the online application. |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD — UR / OBC / SC-ST) | +10 Years (UR) / +13 Years (OBC) / +15 Years (SC/ST) | Subject to post suitability and 40%+ benchmark disability certificate under the RPwD Act, 2016. |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) & Commissioned Officers (ECO / SSCO) | +3 to 5 Years after deducting military service rendered from actual age | Must produce discharge book / NOC from the competent defence authority at document verification. |
Air Force Agniveer selection process and exam pattern
Negative Marking & Evaluation Rule: One-fourth of a mark deducted per wrong answer. Selection & Merit Weightage: Candidates who clear the online test are called for Phase II, which includes physical fitness tests, adaptability tests and a medical examination. Final merit is based on the online test marks among candidates found fit.
Stage 1: Phase I: Online test
Online (computer-based test) • 3 Papers (Science subjects, Other than Science subjects, Science and Other than Science subjects) • 220 Questions • 220 Total Marks • Duration: 60 minutes • A computer-based objective test.
A computer-based objective test. The paper depends on the stream chosen; candidates applying for both streams write a combined paper.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Science subjectsEnglish, Physics and Mathematics 70 70 60 minutes Other than Science subjectsEnglish and Reasoning and General Awareness (RAGA) 50 50 45 minutes Science and Other than Science subjectsEnglish, Physics, Mathematics and RAGA 100 100 85 minutes Stage 2: Phase II: Physical fitness test and adaptability tests
Online (computer-based test) • Shortlisted candidates undergo document verification, the PFT, Adaptability Test I (objective) and Adaptability Test II at an Airmen Selection Centre.
Shortlisted candidates undergo document verification, the PFT, Adaptability Test I (objective) and Adaptability Test II at an Airmen Selection Centre.
Stage 3: Medical examination
Online (computer-based test) • Candidates who clear Phase II are medically examined at a designated Air Force medical facility before the final merit list.
Candidates who clear Phase II are medically examined at a designated Air Force medical facility before the final merit list.
Air Force Agniveer subject-wise syllabus and study material
SmartRank organizes chapter-wise study notes for every subject below in 12 languages, with an AI Tutor on hand for doubts. Start exploring for free, and unlock the complete syllabus with Learn or SmartRank Pass.
English — Part I (Reading comprehension)
- Reading comprehension
- Grammar: tenses, articles, prepositions, modals
- Vocabulary: synonyms, antonyms, one-word substitution
English — Part II (Sentence transformation and voice)
- Sentence transformation and voice
- Idioms and phrases
Physics — Part I (Physical world and measurement)
- Physical world and measurement
- Kinematics and laws of motion
- Work, energy and power
- Gravitation and properties of matter
Physics — Part II (Thermodynamics)
- Thermodynamics
- Electrostatics and current electricity
- Optics, atoms and nuclei
- Electronic devices
Mathematics — Part I (Sets, relations and functions)
- Sets, relations and functions
- Complex numbers and quadratic equations
- Sequences and series
- Trigonometry
Mathematics — Part II (Straight lines, circles and conics)
- Straight lines, circles and conics
- Limits, continuity and differentiation
- Integrals and differential equations
- Probability and statistics
Reasoning and General Awareness (RAGA) — Part I (Numerical series and coding)
- Numerical series and coding
- Analogies and odd one out
- Blood relations and directions
- Time and distance, percentages and averages
Reasoning and General Awareness (RAGA) — Part II (Indian history, polity and geography)
- Indian history, polity and geography
- General science and current affairs
- Computer basics
Air Force Agniveer salary, pay scale, job profile & career growth
Agniveer package starting around ₹30,000 a month in the first year and rising each year, with a Seva Nidhi lump sum on completing four years. Appointments under Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) carry structured pay progression, statutory allowances, and time-bound departmental promotions.
Pay Scale & Grade Structure
Agniveer package starting around ₹30,000 a month in the first year and rising each year, with a Seva Nidhi lump sum on completing four years.
Appointing / Cadre Authority
Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) (Central Government / Public Sector Service)
Allowances & Perks
Dearness Allowance (DA), HRA (X/Y/Z cities: 30%/20%/10%), Transport Allowance, CGHS/Medical cover, LTC, and NPS contribution.
Probation & Training
Initial probation period (typically 1 to 2 years) with induction/foundation training before cadre confirmation.
Allowances, Perks & Service Benefits
- Dearness Allowance (DA) revised bi-annually in line with Consumer Price Index (AICPI)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) or official government quarters / leased accommodation
- Transport Allowance (TA), Leave Travel Concession (LTC), and Children Education Allowance
- Comprehensive medical care (CGHS / ECHS / State Health Scheme) for employee and dependents
- National Pension System (NPS) employer contribution, gratuity, and paid maternity/paternity/study leave
Promotion Hierarchy & Career Progression
- Entry-Level Cadre Appointment (Post allotment & induction training under Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC))
- Senior / Higher Grade Scale via Time-Bound Financial Upgradation (MACP / Dynamic ACP)
- Sectional / Supervisory / Inspector / Assistant Executive Cadre via Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) or LDCE
- Middle Management / Gazetted / Divisional Officer Scale
- Senior Administrative / Directorate / Executive Leadership Cadre
Air Force Agniveer cut-off trends, score normalization and safe target score
Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) releases stage-wise and category-wise Air Force Agniveer cut-off marks at each stage (Prelims/Tier-I shortlisting, Mains/Tier-II evaluation, and Final Merit List). Candidates must clear both minimum qualifying standards and overall/sectional merit cut-offs to advance.
Air Force Agniveer — Qualifying Standards & Safe Target Benchmarks
| Category | Qualifying Floor / Standard | Recommended Safe Target |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved (UR) | 30% to 40% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 72% to 82% of Total Marks (95+ Percentile in Mock Tests) |
| General — Economically Weaker Section (GEN-EWS) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC-NCL) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) / PwBD | 20% to 30% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 58% to 70% of Total Marks |
Score Normalization & Marking Impact
When Air Force Agniveer is conducted across multiple shifts or sessions, Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) applies standard score normalization (Equi-Percentile or Mean-Standard Deviation method) to account for any variation in paper difficulty across shifts. Because raw marks are governed by one-fourth of a mark deducted per wrong answer, maintaining high accuracy (85%+) significantly boosts your normalized score.
Factors Determining Air Force Agniveer Cut-Off
- Total number of notified vacancies / available seats across participating cadres and institutions
- Total number of registered vs actual appearing candidates in the Air Force Agniveer cycle
- Relative difficulty level of the question paper (and shift-wise variation in multi-shift CBT exams)
- Category-wise vertical (UR, EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST) and horizontal (PwBD, ESM, Women) reservation ratios
- Previous year cut-off trajectory and candidate score distribution at the top percentiles
Air Force Agniveer admit card, answer key and result guide
City slip 10–15 days prior • Admit Card 4–10 days before exam
Air Force Agniveer Exam City Intimation & Admit Card
Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) releases the advance Exam City Intimation Slip followed by the official Air Force Agniveer Hall Ticket / e-Admit Card on agnipathvayu.cdac.in. No hard copy is sent by post; candidates must log in with their Registration Number and Date of Birth / Password to download it.
- Clear A4 printout of the Air Force Agniveer e-Admit Card with visible barcode and photograph
- Original valid Government Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, or PAN Card)
- 2 recent passport-size photographs matching the image uploaded in the online application
- PwBD / Scribe certificate and undertaking (if availing compensatory time or scribe facility)
Within 3–10 days after the examination
Air Force Agniveer Provisional Answer Key & Objection Window
After conclusion of the objective test, Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) uploads the candidate response sheet and Provisional Answer Key on agnipathvayu.cdac.in. Candidates can calculate their raw score and submit online representations against any ambiguous question or key discrepancy within the stipulated 48–72 hour window.
- Download your recorded Response Sheet PDF and match Question IDs with the Master Answer Key
- Calculate raw score using the official positive and negative marking formula
- Attach standard textbook / NCERT / official gazette proof if challenging any provisional key
- Review the Final Answer Key published after subject-expert scrutiny of all representations
3–6 weeks after stage completion
Air Force Agniveer Result, Scorecard & Merit List / Counselling
Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) declares the Air Force Agniveer result as a stage-wise Merit List PDF (with roll numbers and category cut-offs) and individual Normalized Scorecards on agnipathvayu.cdac.in. Shortlisted candidates proceed to the next stage, Document Verification, or Centralised Counselling.
- Download and save your official Air Force Agniveer Scorecard / Rank Letter PDF immediately upon release
- Verify category-wise and sectional cut-off marks in the official result write-up notice
- Keep original matriculation, degree, caste/EWS, and domicile certificates ready for verification
- Track reserve list / multi-round seat allotment updates on the official website
Air Force Agniveer mock tests
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Predicted questions for Air Force Agniveer
High-probability questions and topics for your next exam
How to prepare for Air Force Agniveer
- Science stream candidates should solve Class 11 and 12 NCERT Physics and Maths numericals under time, since the pace is about one question per minute.
- English is common to both streams and carries equal weight, so practice comprehension and grammar daily.
- Register for both streams if you are eligible; it widens the number of trades you can be considered for.
- Review the sample test on the official portal to understand the on-screen interface and timing.
- Begin running, push-ups and sit-ups early because Phase II follows the online result closely.
- Read the official Air Force Agniveer notification carefully for the exact pattern, eligibility and selection stages.
Air Force Agniveer FAQs
What is the qualification for Air Force Agniveervayu?
Science stream needs Class 12 with Maths, Physics and English with at least 50% aggregate and 50% in English, or an engineering diploma. The Other than Science stream needs Class 12 in any stream with 50% aggregate and 50% in English.
Is there negative marking in Agniveervayu?
Yes. One-fourth of a mark is deducted for each wrong answer.
Can girls apply for Air Force Agniveer?
Yes. Unmarried female candidates are eligible for Agniveervayu recruitment.
What is the running time for Air Force Agniveer PFT?
Candidates usually need to complete a 1.6 km run in about 7 minutes (men) or 8 minutes (women), followed by push-ups, sit-ups and squats.
What is the Adaptability Test in Agniveervayu?
Adaptability Test I is an objective test on situational judgement, and Adaptability Test II checks whether a candidate can adapt to the Air Force environment. Both are held in Phase II.
What is the selection process and exam pattern for Air Force Agniveer?
Air Force Agniveer is conducted by Indian Air Force (online test administered through CDAC) across 3 stages: Phase I: Online test → Phase II: Physical fitness test and adaptability tests → Medical examination. Candidates who clear the online test are called for Phase II, which includes physical fitness tests, adaptability tests and a medical examination. Final merit is based on the online test marks among candidates found fit.
What is the age limit and educational qualification for Air Force Agniveer?
Educational Qualification: Science subjects: Class 12 with Mathematics, Physics and English with at least 50% aggregate and 50% in English, or a three-year engineering diploma, or a two-year vocational course with Physics and Mathematics. Other than Science subjects: Class 12 in any stream with at least 50% aggregate and 50% in English, or a two-year vocational course. Age Limit: Typically 17.5 to 21 years.
What is the salary and job profile after clearing Air Force Agniveer?
Agniveer package starting around ₹30,000 a month in the first year and rising each year, with a Seva Nidhi lump sum on completing four years.
When is the Air Force Agniveer notification released and how can I apply online?
Air Force Agniveer is held usually twice a year (Usually twice a year: registration around January and July, online tests a few months later, followed by Phase II testing). Online on agnipathvayu.cdac.in.
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