Introduction
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is the gateway for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Air Force (IAF) as an officer in the Flying, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches. However, clearing the AFCAT written exam is just the first step. The next crucial phase is the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview, which assesses candidates on various psychological, physical, and personality parameters.
If you’ve cleared the AFCAT written exam and are wondering how to apply for AFSB, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, eligibility, selection criteria, and preparation tips to help you ace the AFSB interview.
1. Understanding the AFSB Process
The AFSB (Air Force Selection Board) interview is a multi-stage selection process designed to evaluate a candidate’s officer-like qualities (OLQs), leadership skills, mental agility, and suitability for different roles in the Indian Air Force.
It consists of:
Screening Test (OIR and PPDT)
Psychological Tests
Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks
Personal Interview
Conference and Final Selection
Only candidates who pass all these stages successfully make it to the final merit list for training at the Air Force Academy (AFA).
2. Who is Eligible for AFSB?
Before applying for the AFSB, ensure you meet the following criteria:
AFCAT Cutoff Criteria
You must have scored equal to or more than the AFCAT cutoff marks in the written exam.
Your name should be listed in the AFCAT result as a qualified candidate.
Educational Qualification
Flying Branch: Graduation with 60% marks in any discipline with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or BE/B.Tech.
Ground Duty (Technical): BE/B.Tech with 60% marks in specified engineering streams.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Graduation with 60% marks in relevant disciplines.
Age Limit
Flying Branch: 20-24 years
Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical): 20-26 years
Physical & Medical Standards
Must meet the IAF’s medical fitness standards as prescribed by the authorities.
Flying Branch candidates must pass the Pilot Aptitude Battery Test (PABT) and Computerized Pilot Selection System (CPSS).
3. How to Apply for AFSB After Clearing AFCAT?
Once you clear the AFCAT written exam, follow these steps to apply for the AFSB interview:
Step 1: Check Your AFCAT Results
Visit the official AFCAT website: https://afcat.cdac.in
Log in using your credentials.
Check your AFCAT score and ensure you have cleared the cutoff.
Step 2: Select AFSB Center & Interview Date
The Indian Air Force provides a window to choose your preferred AFSB center and date.
Centers available:
AFSB Dehradun (1 AFSB)
AFSB Mysuru (2 AFSB)
AFSB Gandhinagar (3 AFSB)
AFSB Varanasi (4 AFSB)
AFSB Guwahati (5 AFSB) - only for NCC & Meteorology candidates
Select your preferred AFSB center and date of interview from the available slots.
Step 3: Download AFSB Call Letter
Once you have selected your center and date, download your AFSB call letter from the AFCAT portal.
Print the letter and keep multiple copies for future reference.
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
Ensure you carry the following documents for the AFSB interview: ✔️ AFSB Call Letter ✔️ AFCAT Admit Card ✔️ Original & Photocopies of Educational Certificates ✔️ Aadhaar Card or other valid ID proof ✔️ Passport-size Photographs ✔️ NCC Certificate (if applicable) ✔️ Any other relevant certificates
4. AFSB Interview Process – 5-Day Selection Procedure
Day 1: Screening Test (Stage 1)
Candidates undergo Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test and Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PPDT).
Those who qualify move to Stage 2; others are sent home the same day.
Day 2: Psychological Tests
Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)
Word Association Test (WAT)
Situation Reaction Test (SRT)
Self-Description Test (SDT)
These tests evaluate a candidate’s personality, decision-making skills, and mental strength.
Day 3 & 4: GTO Tasks
Group Testing involves physical and mental challenges such as:
Group Discussion (GD)
Group Planning Exercise (GPE)
Progressive Group Task (PGT)
Half Group Task (HGT)
Command Task (CT)
Individual Obstacles (IO)
Final Group Task (FGT)
Day 5: Personal Interview & Conference
Candidates face a personal interview with senior officers.
The final conference decides whether a candidate is recommended or not.
5. AFSB Selection Criteria & Merit List
The final merit list is based on:
AFCAT Written Exam Marks
AFSB Interview Performance
Medical Examination
Only medically fit and recommended candidates are considered for selection in the final merit list.
6. Preparation Tips for AFSB Interview
✔️ Improve communication skills for GD & Interview.
✔️ Stay updated on current affairs & defence-related news.
✔️ Practice Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Tests regularly.
✔️ Work on physical fitness for GTO tasks.
✔️ Stay confident & positive throughout the process.
7. Conclusion
Clearing the AFCAT written exam is a big achievement, but getting recommended in AFSB is what truly matters! The AFSB interview is a rigorous and competitive process, testing candidates on various levels. By following this guide and preparing well, you can boost your chances of becoming an Indian Air Force officer.
🎯 Are you ready for the AFSB? Start your preparation now and give your best!
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FAQs
1. How many AFSB attempts can I take?
There is no limit on the number of AFSB attempts, but you must qualify for AFCAT each time.
2. What is the duration of AFSB?
The AFSB interview lasts 5 days. Candidates recommended on the final day undergo medical examinations.
3. Can I change my AFSB center after selection?
No, once a center and date are selected, they cannot be changed.
4. What happens if I fail the PABT/CPSS test?
If you fail PABT/CPSS, you are permanently unfit for the Flying Branch but can still apply for Ground Duty roles.
5. When is the final AFCAT merit list released?
The final merit list is released a few months after AFSB interviews and medical tests.
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