AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Analysis: Check Expected Cut-Off and Result Date

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the answer key for the AFCAT 1 2026 exam. The exam, which selects officers for the Flying and Ground Duty branches, was successfully conducted across India on January 31, 2026.

Candidates who appeared for the exam can now check their responses and the official answer key on the official website, afcat.cdac.in. Along with the answer key, the IAF has opened a limited-time window for candidates to raise objections against any incorrect questions or answers.

This article covers the latest updates on the AFCAT 1 2026 answer key, a brief analysis of the exam difficulty, expected cut-off marks, and what candidates should do next.

AFCAT 1 2026: Key Updates at a Glance

The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is a highly competitive exam held twice a year. Below is the updated timeline for the first cycle of 2026.

Read more: CBIC Baggage Rules 2026

Event	Date / Status
Exam Date	January 31, 2026 (Concluded)
Answer Key Release Date	February 1, 2026
Objection Window	February 1 to February 3, 2026
Expected Result Date	Late February or Early March 2026
Official Website	afcat.cdac.in

Exam Analysis: How Was the Paper?

According to student feedback and expert reviews, the AFCAT 1 2026 exam was of moderate difficulty.

• General Awareness: This section was tricky for many. Questions focused on current affairs (last 6 months), military exercises, sports awards, and basic science.
• English Verbal Ability: Most candidates found this section easy to moderate. It included reading comprehension, idioms, synonyms, and error spotting.
• Numerical Ability: This section was slightly time-consuming. Questions covered profit & loss, speed & distance, and percentages.
• Reasoning: This was the highest-scoring section for most students, with standard questions on series, odd one out, and Venn diagrams.

Expected Cut-Off Marks for AFCAT 1 2026

The cut-off depends on the difficulty level of the paper and the number of test-takers. Based on initial trends, experts suggest the cut-off might see a slight rise this year.

• Expected Cut-Off Range: 155 – 160 marks (out of 300).
• Safe Score: Scoring 165+ is considered safe to clear the written stage and prepare for the interview.

Note: This is an estimated range. The final official cut-off will be declared along with the result.

How to Download Answer Key and Raise Objections

The objection window is currently active and will close on February 3, 2026. Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the official website: afcat.cdac.in.
2. Log in using your Email ID and Password.
3. Click on the link for “View Question Paper & Response Sheet”.
4. Compare your answers with the provisional key.
5. If you find an error, click on the “Objection” tab, select the question ID, and upload valid proof (reference from a standard book).
6. Pay the objection fee (if applicable) and submit.

What Happens Next? (Result and AFSB)

Once the objection window closes, the IAF will review the claims and release the Final Result.

• Results: Expected in the last week of February or the first week of March 2026.
• AFSB Interview: Qualified candidates will be called for the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview. This is a 5-day process involving psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews.
• Venue Selection: After results are declared, successful candidates must log in immediately to select their preferred AFSB date and center (Dehradun, Mysore, Gandhinagar, or Varanasi). Slots are booked on a first-come, first-served basis.

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