AFCAT Exam Pattern 2024: Written Test, Marking Scheme, EKT
AFCAT Exam Pattern 2024 – The AFCAT 2024 exam pattern involves 4 sections with one hundred questions to be attempted in a duration of two hours. The AFCAT exam syllabus is detailed and encompasses various subjects. The exam pattern of 2024 AFCAT Exam serves as a guide for candidates preparing to join the Indian Air Force, providing insights into the subjects and question types included in the test. Understanding the AFCAT exam pattern is essential for candidates seeking a career in the Air Force, as it helps them prepare effectively and perform well in this competitive test.
Highlights of AFCAT Exam Pattern 2024
| Parameters | Details |
| Mode of exam | Online |
| Number of sections | Four |
| Number of questions | 100 |
| Maximum marks | 300 |
| Type of questions | Objective type |
| AFCAT Paper Duration | Two hours |
| Language of paper | English |
Changes in AFCAT Exam Pattern
In 2023, the Indian Air Force introduced certain modifications to the AFCAT exam pattern. These changes are as follows:
- The IAF decided to eliminate the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) from the AFCAT 1 2023 exam. Previously, EKT was a part of the examination for candidates applying to the Technical branch.
- The announcement for Permanent Commission vacancies was absent.
- A new branch, known as the Weapon System branch, was introduced as part of the AFCAT 1 2023 exam.
- Candidates who had submitted applications for the Meteorology branch were now required to participate in the AFCAT online exam.
These adjustments in the AFCAT exam pattern aimed to streamline the selection process and accommodate changes in branch-wise requirements.
AFCAT Exam Pattern 2024
The AFCAT 2024 exam pattern consists of both online tests and AFSB tests. All registered candidates must take the online test, which covers subjects like General Awareness, Verbal Ability in English, Numerical Ability, Reasoning, and Military Aptitude Test. Technical branch candidates also face the EKT, which assesses knowledge in Mechanical, Computer Science, and Electrical & Electronics. AFCAT 2024 is scored out of 300 marks, while the EKT is out of 150 marks.
The AFSB 2024 tests are conducted in three stages. The first stage includes the Officer Intelligence Rating Test, Picture Perception Test, and Discussion Test. The second stage involves the Psychological Test, Group Tests, and Interview. For those applying to the flying branch, participation in the Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) is mandatory. The final merit list is created by considering the performance in both the online exam and AFSB Interview. Candidates are ranked based on the total marks achieved in these assessments. The AFCAT 2024 exam pattern structure is outlined below.
| Subject | Exam Duration | No of Questions | Maximum Marks |
| General Awareness | 02 hours | 100 | 300 |
| Verbal Ability in English | |||
| Numerical Ability | |||
| Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test |
AFCAT 2024 Marking Scheme
The marking scheme is as follows:
- Three marks will be given for each correct answer.
- One mark will be subtracted for each incorrect answer.
- No marks will be awarded for questions that are left unanswered.
Prior to the result announcement, candidate scores will undergo a normalization process.
AFCAT Negative Marking
AFCAT 2024 has a negative marking scheme wherein one mark is deducted for each incorrect answer given by the candidate.
AFCAT Exam Pattern for EKT
The following is the exam pattern for EKT:-
| Subject | Time | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks |
| Mechanical | 45 minutes | 50 | 150 |
AFCAT Exam Pattern for Technical Branch
The following is the exam pattern for Technical Branch:-
| Section | Questions | Marks | Time |
| Reasoning and military aptitude test | 35 | 105 | 2 Hours |
| Verbal ability in English | 30 | 90 | |
| Numerical ability | 15 | 45 | |
| General awareness | 20 | 60 | |
| Mechanics/
Computer science/ Electrical and electronics |
50 | 150 | 45 min |
AFCAT Exam Pattern for Non-Technical Branch
The following is the exam pattern for Non-Technical Branch:-
| Section | Questions | Marks | Time |
| Reasoning and military aptitude test | 35 | 105 | 2 Hours |
| Verbal ability in English | 30 | 90 | |
| Numerical ability | 15 | 45 | |
| General awareness | 20 | 60 |
AFCAT Exam Pattern 2024: Normalisation Process
The AFCAT 2024 exam follows a normalization process to ensure fairness and accuracy in assessing candidates’ performance, as the examination is conducted over multiple days and shifts. Normalization is a statistical method that adjusts scores to account for variations in the difficulty level of different exam sessions. Here’s an overview of the AFCAT 2024 normalization process:
- Calculation of Raw Scores: After each exam session, candidates’ raw scores are determined based on the number of correct and incorrect answers. These raw scores reflect the actual marks obtained in the test.
- Session-wise Difficulty Level Assessment: The Indian Air Force evaluates the difficulty level of each exam session separately. This assessment takes into account factors such as the complexity of questions and the performance of candidates in that particular session.
- Normalization Formula: A statistical formula is applied to adjust raw scores. This formula considers the mean performance of all candidates across various sessions and accounts for variations in difficulty. The goal is to ensure that candidates are not disadvantaged due to differences in exam sessions.
- Normalization Score: The result of the normalization process is a normalized score, which is used to create a merit list of candidates. This score is a fair representation of a candidate’s performance relative to others, regardless of the session’s difficulty.
- Merit List: The final merit list is prepared based on the normalized scores. Candidates with the highest normalized scores are selected for further stages of the selection process.
The normalization process in AFCAT 2024 ensures that candidates are assessed fairly, considering the variations in question difficulty. It eliminates the advantage or disadvantage candidates may have based on the specific session they attended, promoting equality and fairness in the selection process.
AFSB Exam Pattern 2024
The AFSB 2024 exam pattern is specific to candidates applying for the Indian Air Force. It comprises a series of tests and interviews that assess a candidate’s suitability for various branches within the Air Force, such as the Flying Branch, Technical Branch, and Ground Duty Branch. The AFSB 2024 selection process generally consists of the following stages:
Stage I:
- Officer Intelligence Rating Test (OIR): This written test evaluates a candidate’s reasoning and intelligence.
- Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT): Candidates view a picture and then participate in group discussions based on their observations.
Stage II:
- Psychological Tests: A battery of psychological tests is administered to evaluate a candidate’s personality, leadership qualities, and compatibility for a career in the Air Force.
- Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tests: These include various group activities and tasks that assess a candidate’s teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Interview: A personal interview with an interviewing officer is conducted to assess the candidate’s knowledge, communication, and suitability for the Air Force.
Stage III (Applicable to Flying Branch Candidates):
- Computerized Pilot Selection System (CPSS): Flying Branch candidates must undergo this test to assess their aptitude for piloting.
Candidates who clear these stages successfully are recommended for various branches within the Indian Air Force.
Benefits of AFCAT Exam Pattern
- Comprehensive Assessment: The AFCAT 2024 exam pattern assesses candidates’ knowledge, aptitude, and suitability for various branches within the Indian Air Force, including the Flying Branch, Technical Branch, and Ground Duty Branch. This comprehensive evaluation helps identify well-rounded officers.
- Fairness: The normalization process in the AFCAT 2024 exam pattern ensures fairness and equal opportunity for candidates. It accounts for variations in question difficulty across different exam sessions, ensuring that candidates are not disadvantaged due to session-specific factors.
- Selection of the Best: The AFCAT 2024 exam pattern is designed to select the most qualified and deserving candidates who meet the high standards required by the Indian Air Force. It identifies candidates with the potential to excel in their roles.
- Streamlined Selection Process: The pattern provides a structured selection process with multiple stages, including written exams and interviews, to thoroughly evaluate candidates. This systematic approach helps in identifying the most suitable individuals for different branches and roles.
- Diverse Branches: The AFCAT 2024 exam pattern accommodates candidates from diverse educational backgrounds, allowing them to apply for various branches within the Air Force, including flying, technical, and non-technical roles. This flexibility broadens the pool of potential officers.
- Career Opportunities: Successful candidates who pass the AFCAT 2024 can look forward to fulfilling careers in the Indian Air Force, serving their nation and contributing to national security.
- Personal Development: The psychological tests and interviews in the selection process not only assess candidates but also provide opportunities for personal development, leadership training, and self-improvement.
- Continuous Improvement: The Indian Air Force periodically reviews and updates the AFCAT 2024 exam pattern to ensure that it aligns with the changing requirements and standards of the armed forces, allowing for continuous improvement.
AFCAT Mock Test 2024
The Indian Air Force provides AFCAT 2024 Mock Tests along with their answer keys. The candidate can refer to the AFCAT 2024 Mock Test for further clarification and understanding of the AFCAT 2024; https://afcat.cdac.in/AFCAT/downloadpaper.html.
AFCAT Syllabus 2024
The AFCAT 2024 exam syllabus is prescribed by the Indian Air Force. The following is the AFCAT 2024 Syllabus:-
| Subjects | Topics |
| English |
|
| General Knowledge |
|
| Reasoning and Military Aptitude |
|
| Numerical Ability |
|
AFCAT Exam Analysis 2024
Following the completion of the AFCAT 2024 exam, various well-known coaching institutes provide an analysis of the exam. The AFCAT 2024 exam analysis is derived from the input and feedback gathered from candidates who took the AFCAT 2024 online exam.
AFCAT Books
The following are some books that the candidates can refer to when starting their preparation for AFCAT 2024:-
| Name of Book | Author/ Publisher |
| AFCAT Solved Paper | Arihant Publication |
| General Knowledge | Arihant Publication |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | RS Aggarwal |
| A modern approach to Verbal Reasoning | RS Aggarwal |
| From Plinth to Paramount | Neetu Singh |
| Objective Arithmetic | S Chand |
AFCAT Salary
The following is the AFCAT 2024 Salary for a commissioned officer:
| Rank | Level | Pay Scale (In INR) |
| Flying Officer | Level 10 | 56,100-1,77,500 |
| Flight Lieutenant | Level 10 B | 6,13,00-1,93,900 |
| Squadron Leader | Level 11 | 6,94,00 – 2,07,200 |
| Wing Commander | Level 12A | 1,21,200 – 2,12400 |
| Group Captain | Level 13 | 1,30,600-2, 15,900 |
| Air Commodore | Level 13A | 1,39,600-2,17,600 |
| Air Vice Marshal | Level 14 | 1,44,200-2,18,200 |
| Air Marshal HAG Scale | Level 15 | 1, 82, 200-2,24,100 |
| HAG+Scale | Level 16 | 2,05,400 – 2,24,400 |
| VACS/Airforce Cdr/ Air Marshal (NFSG) | Level 17 | 2,25,000/-(fixed) |
| CAS | Level 18 | 2,50,000/-(fixed) |
How to Prepare for AFCAT 2024?
- Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the AFCAT exam pattern and syllabus. Understand the sections, subjects, and question types.
- Create a Study Schedule: Develop a study timetable that suits your daily routine. Allocate sufficient time to cover all the subjects and topics.
- Study Material: Gather recommended study material, including AFCAT preparation books, previous year question papers, and online resources.
- Subject-wise Preparation: Break down your study into subject-wise preparation. Focus on General Awareness, Verbal Ability in English, Numerical Ability, Reasoning, and Military Aptitude Test. If applying for the Technical Branch, prepare for the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) if applicable.
- Practice: Regularly practice with mock tests and sample papers to get a feel for the exam and improve your time management and accuracy.
- Current Affairs: Stay updated with current affairs, especially related to defense and aviation, as this is an essential part of the General Awareness section.
- Improve English Skills: Enhance your English language skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension.
- Mathematics: Strengthen your mathematical skills by practicing problems and concepts related to numerical ability.
- Reasoning and Aptitude: Work on your logical reasoning and aptitude skills by solving puzzles and practicing different types of questions.
- Physical Fitness: Maintain good physical fitness as the selection process includes medical and physical tests.
AFCAT Exam Pattern 2024 FAQs
Q Is there a negative marking in the AFCAT 2024 exam?
Ans Yes, there is a negative marking system in the AFCAT 2024 exam. For each incorrect answer, one mark is deducted. No marks are deducted for unattempted questions.
Q How is the AFCAT 2024 exam score calculated?
Ans The AFCAT 2024 exam is scored as follows:
- Three marks are awarded for each correct answer.
- One mark is deducted for each incorrect answer.
- No marks are deducted for unattempted questions.
- The final score is calculated based on the number of correct and incorrect answers, and this score is then normalized for fairness.
Q Is there a specific syllabus for the EKT (Engineering Knowledge Test) in AFCAT 2024?
Ans Yes, the EKT syllabus is specific to the Technical Branch candidates. It includes topics related to their respective engineering disciplines, such as Mechanical, Computer Science, and Electrical & Electronics. The syllabus is based on the engineering subjects studied during their undergraduate courses.
Q How many questions will be asked in the AFCAT 2024?
Ans A total of 100 questions will be asked in AFCAT 2024.
Conclusion
The AFCAT 2024 exam pattern is a comprehensive and fair assessment system designed to select the best candidates for various branches within the Indian Air Force. With its well-structured selection stages, normalization process, and subject-specific evaluations, it ensures a rigorous and unbiased selection process. Candidates preparing for AFCAT 2024 should thoroughly understand the pattern and syllabus, practice consistently, and maintain a positive outlook to succeed in this highly competitive examination.
Also See :
- AFCAT 2024
- AFCAT Registration 2024
- AFCAT Eligibility criteria 2024
- AFCAT Exam pattern 2024
- AFCAT 2024 Admit card 2024
- AFCAT Syllabus 2024
- AFCAT Result 2024