The AFCAT 1 2026 examination has successfully concluded, and candidates who appeared for the exam are now eagerly waiting to evaluate their performance. The AFCAT answer key 2026 plays a crucial role in helping aspirants calculate their expected score and assess their chances of qualifying for the next stage of selection.
In this article, you’ll find complete and updated information about AFCAT 1 2026, how to download the AFCAT answer key, marking scheme, score calculation process, expected cut-off, and what happens next after the answer key release.
What is AFCAT 1 2026?
The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is conducted by the Indian Air Force to recruit eligible candidates for Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) branches.
AFCAT 1 2026 is the first cycle of the AFCAT exam conducted in 2026 and witnessed participation from thousands of defence aspirants across India through an online Computer Based Test (CBT).
AFCAT Answer Key 2026 – Overview
The AFCAT answer key 2026 contains the officially approved correct answers for all questions asked in the exam. Along with the answer key, candidates can also access:
- AFCAT 1 2026 Question Paper
- Individual Response Sheet
- Marks calculation option
These documents help candidates estimate their probable score even before the declaration of results.
How to Download AFCAT 1 2026 Answer Key
Follow these simple steps to download the AFCAT answer key:
- Visit the official AFCAT candidate login portal
- Log in using your Email ID and Password
- Click on the “Answer Key / Response Sheet” link
- Download the AFCAT answer key 2026 PDF
- Match your responses with the official answers
Note: The answer key is released online only. No physical copy is sent to candidates.
AFCAT 1 2026 Marking Scheme
Understanding the marking scheme is essential while using the AFCAT answer key 2026.
| Response Type | Marks |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +3 Marks |
| Wrong Answer | −1 Mark |
| Unattempted Question | 0 Marks |
Using this scheme, candidates can easily calculate their expected AFCAT 1 2026 score.
How to Calculate Your AFCAT Score Using the Answer Key
- Count the number of correct answers
- Multiply correct answers by 3
- Count incorrect answers and multiply by 1
- Subtract negative marks from total positive marks
Formula:
Score = (Correct × 3) − (Wrong × 1)
This calculated score helps you predict whether you are close to the expected cut-off.
AFCAT 1 2026 Expected Cut-Off (Tentative)
Based on previous trends and exam difficulty level, the expected cut-off for AFCAT 1 2026 is likely to fall in the range of:
- 135 – 145 marks (AFCAT Written Exam)
The actual cut-off may vary depending on:
- Exam difficulty
- Number of candidates
- Vacancies available
- Normalization (if applicable)
Can You Challenge the AFCAT Answer Key 2026?
Traditionally, the Indian Air Force does not provide a formal objection window for challenging the AFCAT answer key. The released key is considered final and is used for result preparation.
However, candidates should always check official notifications for any updates regarding challenges or clarifications.
What Happens After AFCAT 1 2026 Answer Key?
After the release of the AFCAT answer key 2026, the selection process moves forward as follows:
- AFCAT Result Declaration
- AFSB Interview Call Letter
- Stage I & Stage II AFSB Testing
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Candidates who clear the written exam and AFSB interview will be inducted as officers in the Indian Air Force.
AFCAT Score Calculator
AFCAT Score Calculator 2026
Use this AFCAT score calculator to estimate your marks and expected rank based on the official AFCAT marking scheme.
+3 marks for correct answer
−1 mark for wrong answer
0 marks for unattempted
Important Points to Remember
- The AFCAT answer key helps estimate scores, not confirm selection
- Final results depend on written exam + AFSB performance
- Keep your login credentials safe to access future updates
- Regularly check the official AFCAT portal for result notifications
The release of the AFCAT 1 2026 answer key is a crucial milestone for aspirants dreaming of a career in the Indian Air Force. By carefully checking the AFCAT answer key 2026, candidates can realistically evaluate their performance and start preparing for the next stage of selection with confidence.
