IAF Agniveer 2026: Age Limit Hiked, New Eligibility Out

New Delhi, February 27, 2026: In a significant move to broaden the talent pool and provide more opportunities for the nation’s youth, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced a revision to the eligibility criteria for the Agniveer Vayu Intake 01/2027 recruitment cycle. The most notable change is the increase in the upper age limit, a decision that follows similar adjustments made by the Indian Army earlier this year.

This update is expected to provide a “second chance” to thousands of aspirants who may have previously aged out of the recruitment window.

Key Update: Revised Age Limit

As per the latest notification, the Indian Air Force has increased the upper age limit from 21 years to 22 years. This one-year extension is a strategic decision intended to attract more candidates, particularly those with technical backgrounds or those whose preparation was interrupted.

Feature	Details
Minimum Age	17.5 Years
New Upper Age Limit	22 Years (at the time of enrollment)
Eligible DOB Range	Born between January 1, 2005, and July 1, 2009 (both dates inclusive)

Important Dates: Application Window Reopens

Following the revision of the age criteria, the IAF has announced that it will reopen the registration portal. Candidates who are now eligible under the new age bracket—or those who missed the previous deadline—can apply during this fresh window.

• Registration Reopening Date: March 3, 2026
• Registration Closing Date: March 10, 2026
• Original Deadline (Reference): February 8, 2026
• Scheduled Exam Dates: March 30 and 31, 2026

Comprehensive Eligibility Criteria

While the age limit has been relaxed, the educational and physical standards remain rigorous to ensure the high operational readiness of the force.

1. Educational Qualifications

Candidates can apply under two primary categories:

• Science Subjects:
  • Passed 10+2 (Intermediate) with Mathematics, Physics, and English with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate and 50% marks in English.
  • OR A 3-year Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, etc.) with 50% aggregate and 50% in English.
• Other Than Science Subjects:
  • Passed 10+2 in any stream with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks and 50% marks in English.

2. Physical Standards

The IAF maintains strict physical benchmarks for both male and female candidates:

• Height: Minimum 152.5 cm for males; 152 cm for females (relaxations apply for candidates from North East, Hilly regions, and Lakshadweep).
• Chest: Well-proportioned with a minimum expansion of 5 cm.
• Fitness Test: Includes a 1.6 km run (7 mins for males, 8 mins for females), push-ups, sit-ups, and squats.

Selection Process & Benefits

The recruitment follows a multi-phase selection process designed to test mental and physical endurance:

1. Phase I: Online Computer-Based Test (CBT).
2. Phase II: Physical Fitness Test (PFT), Document Verification, and Adaptability Tests.
3. Phase III: Comprehensive Medical Examination.

Agniveers will serve for a duration of four years. Upon completion, they receive the Seva Nidhi package (approximately ₹10.04 Lakhs) and a “Skill Gained Certificate.” Additionally, up to 25% of each batch will be considered for enrollment into the regular cadre based on merit and performance.