A clear understanding of the AFCAT 1 2026 cutoff and the likely result timeline helps plan next steps, set realistic score targets and prepare for AFSB. The official notification and exam schedule for AFCAT 1 2026 show a predictable sequence: application window, admit card release, exam date, answer key (if released), and final result with cutoffs announced alongside the scorecard.
Based on recent practice and the official AFCAT calendar released in November 2025, the likely timeline places the AFCAT 1 2026 exam in late January 2026 with the result expected in February 2026. This sequence is in line with the Air Force’s usual post-exam processing time that allows for evaluation, normalization and merit-list preparation. Watch the official AFCAT portals for the exact release of scorecards and the final cutoff announcement.
AFCAT 1 2026 — Expected Result Date and Key Timelines
| Event | Expected Date (AFCAT 1 2026) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Admit Card | Late Jan 2026 | Issued before exam |
| Exam Date | 31 Jan 2026 (typical window) | Computer-based test |
| Answer Key (if issued) | 1–2 weeks after exam | Sometimes released for review |
| Result & Cutoff | February 2026 (expected) | Download Now |
Cutoffs for AFCAT exams have shown variation over the years, driven by exam difficulty, vacancy count, and the candidate pool’s overall performance. In recent cycles, cutoffs have ranged from around the low 120s to the mid-160s out of 300. For AFCAT 1 2026 cutoff, a reasoned prediction for the General category would place the qualifying/merit threshold near 130–155 marks, while category-wise reductions (OBC, SC, ST, EWS) will follow reservation norms and relative scoring patterns. If the paper proves easier than expected, the cutoff could push higher; conversely, a tougher paper or larger candidate pool with lower top scores would pull it down. The final published cutoff remains authoritative.
How to check result on the official UPSC website
Open the UPSC website in a browser (type upsc.gov.in).
On the homepage look for the menu item “Examinations” or “Recruitment”, then click “Results” (some pages show “Notices / Results / Interviews”).
Find the exam name (for example CDS / CAPF / Civil Services) in the list of recent results or archived results. Results and cutoffs are usually published as a PDF.
Click the result link to open or download the PDF file.
Open the PDF and use the browser/PDF viewer’s Find function (Ctrl+F / Command+F) and search for keywords like “cut-off”, “cutoff”, “minimum qualifying marks”, or the specific category name (General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS).
Note the category-wise cutoffs and any separate subject/section or exam-specific cutoffs shown in the PDF. Save the file for records.
If a separate merit list or scorecard download is available, follow the links on the same result page to access those documents.
Factors That Decide AFCAT Cutoffs
Several concrete elements shape the AFCAT cutoff each session. First, exam difficulty is crucial: an easier paper pushes cutoffs up, while a harder paper lowers them. Second, vacancies matter—higher vacancies can relax the effective cutoff for merit, while fewer vacancies raise competition. Third, normalization and negative marking influence final marks and ranking patterns across different slots. Finally, reservation rules determine category-wise bars and affect how many candidates from each category move to AFSB. Reading these factors together helps interpret why a seemingly small change in question difficulty can shift the cutoff by several marks. Historical patterns show how these variables combine to produce the final numbers.
Previous Year Cutoffs: AFCAT 1 & AFCAT 2 (Last 10 Years)
The best guide to forecast is past data. The table below compiles a concise history of AFCAT cutoffs as publicly reported for recent sessions.
| Year | Session | AFCAT Cutoff (out of 300) |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | AFCAT 2 | 139 |
| 2024 | AFCAT 1 | 137 |
| 2023 | AFCAT 2 | 151 |
| 2023 | AFCAT 1 | 155 |
| 2022 | AFCAT 2 | 157 |
| 2022 | AFCAT 1 | 157 |
| 2021 | AFCAT 2 | 157 |
| 2021 | AFCAT 1 | 165 |
| 2020 | AFCAT 2 | 155 |
| 2020 | AFCAT 1 | 153 |
| 2019 | AFCAT 2 | 142 |
| 2019 | AFCAT 1 | 133 |
| 2018 | AFCAT 2 | 140 |
| 2018 | AFCAT 1 | 155 |
| 2017 | AFCAT 1 | 150 |
| 2016 | AFCAT 1 | 132 |
| 2015 | AFCAT 1 | 126 |
This table is drawn from publicly reported cutoff summaries and exam analyses across education portals; it shows fluctuations aligned with vacancy changes and exam difficulty over time. Use the trend to set a realistic target rather than expect any single fixed number.
How to Use Historical Cutoffs to Set Targets?
Historical cutoffs indicate boundaries. A strategy that aims to exceed the historical mean by a safe margin improves selection chances. For a conservative target in AFCAT 1 2026 cutoff planning, aiming for 10–15 marks above the recent lower-cycle cutoffs provides a buffer for normalization swings. Tracking sectional strengths is equally important because final merit depends on total marks combined with AFSB performance; strong sectional balance lowers the risk of missing minimums in key areas.
Preparation & Score Targets
Preparation now should be anchored to an informed cutoff goal. Priority must be given to mock tests, error logs and time management to convert accuracy into marks. Section-wise practice that mirrors expected difficulty and a rolling review of recent current affairs are essential, since General Awareness often decides marginal seats. Finally, preparing documentation and fitness routines in parallel ensures readiness for AFSB once the AFCAT 1 2026 cutoff and results are out. Mock-to-real simulations in the final weeks help translate practice performance into the actual exam temperament needed to surpass the cutoff and move to the next phase.
About Doon Defence Dreamers
Doon Defence Dreamers (best AFCAT Coaching in Dehradun) is one of India’s most trusted and result-oriented defence training institutes, dedicated to preparing young aspirants for the Armed Forces through NDA, CDS, AFCAT, Agniveer, RIMC, Sainik School, and other prestigious defence examinations. Established with a mission to build future officers with discipline, leadership, and integrity, Doon Defence Dreamers has consistently delivered outstanding results year after year.
With a team of highly experienced mentors, ex-armed forces officers, structured training modules, GTO ground facilities, and a commitment to individual attention, we continue to empower students not only to crack written exams but also to excel in SSB interviews and personality development. Our success stories and consistent selections reflect our dedication and the trust thousands of students place in us every year.
YEAR-WISE ACHIEVEMENTS
2024–2025
Record-breaking success — 4 SSB Recommendations from a single batch
710+ Written Qualified Students in NDA 2 2025
Advanced GTO training facility upgraded
Launch of digital learning platform for online students
2023–2024
Highest number of Sainik School & RMS selections
More than 120+ students shortlisted for SSB screening stage
Structured practice sessions with psychological tests & OIR/GD modules introduced
2022–2023
100+ written exam qualifiers across NDA, CDS, AFCAT & Agniveer
Partnership with retired GTO officers for real-assessment based training
Defence motivational & uniform ceremony for recommended cadets introduced
2021–2022
Online + offline hybrid training successfully launched during pandemic recovery
Expansion of batches and hostel facility for all-India students
2019–2021
Strong foundation years with rapid growth in student strength
Multiple selections in NDA, RIMC & Sainik Schools
BATCH DETAILS
NDA Foundation Program: Class 11 & 12 with board + defence preparation
NDA Target Batch: 6–8 month written + SSB integrated program
SSB Interview Special Batch: GTO, Psychology, PI, OIR, Group Tasks
AFCAT / CDS / Agniveer Batches: 3-4 month intensive training
RIMC & Sainik School Pre-Foundation: Classes 6–10
Online + Offline modes available
Hostel & mess facility for out-station cadets
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)?
Q.1. What is the official AFCAT 1 2026 cutoff (category-wise)?
The official AFCAT 1 2026 cutoff lists the minimum marks required for each category (General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS) as released by the Exam Authority. These numbers are published in the official cut-off notification on AFCAT/IAF portals and may vary by vacancy and paper difficulty. Always check the official PDF for exact figures and download/quote the release date when you publish.
Q.2. When and where will the AFCAT 1 2026 cutoffs be announced?
AFCAT cutoffs are usually announced after the evaluation and merit-list preparation, typically a few weeks after the results. The authoritative source is the official AFCAT/Air Force website (or UPSC/official notification pages if applicable) — watch the “Results / Notices” section and download the cut-off document. Do not rely on unofficial social posts; always cite the official release date and PDF link.
Q.3. How will be AFCAT 1 2026 cutoff be calculated (what factors affect them)?
Cutoffs depend on factors such as number of vacancies, overall exam difficulty, candidate performance distribution, and reservation category norms. Higher difficulty or fewer vacancies generally push cutoffs up or down depending on how candidates perform. Authorities may also use normalization or tie-break rules; detailed methodology (if any) is often described in the official cut-off notice.
Q.4. What score should I aim for to be safe for SSB calls in AFCAT 1 2026?
A safe target is usually 8–12 marks above the official cutoff for your category to account for tie-breaks and merit variations. Additionally, aim for a strong sectional balance since shortlisting can consider overall merit and sometimes sectional trends. Use past-year cutoffs and yearwise trends to set a concrete numeric target rather than relying on guesswork.
Q.5. Where can I find yearwise AFCAT cutoffs and trend analysis?
Yearwise cutoffs and trend analysis are often compiled on official or reputable coaching/defence-education sites that cite the official PDFs. Look for pages that list cutoffs year-by-year (with sources) and include short commentary explaining reasons for increases/decreases. For the most reliable comparison, always cross-check the listed numbers against the original official notifications.
