What is AFCAT normalisation of marks?

AFCAT exam is conducted to get into the Indian Air Force. To adjust the level of difficulty, normalisation of marks are done in AFCAT. It is the process to mark and rank candidates based on the difficulty level of the shifts. It is a process to equalize scores of students appearing for the same exam but in different shifts having different Sets of question papers. Candidates are marked based on the difficulty level of the shifts. AFCAT exam is held across multiple shifts. Each shift has a different difficulty level. The normalisation process is introduced to adjust the difficulty level of each set and is used to fill the gap of disparity.

How does the normalization process affect the AFCAT marks?

AFCAT normalisation is a process that is applied to data to adjust its values so that they conform to a standard scale or distribution. This is often done to make it easier to compare or analyse the data. In the context of marks or grades, normalisation can be used to adjust the scores or grades given by different teachers or evaluators so that they are comparable to one another. This can be done by converting the scores to a standardised scale, such as a percentile or Z-score, or by adjusting the scores based on factors such as the difficulty of the course or the performance of the class as a whole. It's important to note that normalisation can have an impact on the marks, as it can alter the scores or grades given to students. Some students may have their marks increased, while others may have them decreased, depending on how the normalisation process is applied. Additionally, some students and teachers may object to the use of normalisation, as they may feel that it is unfair or that it does not accurately reflect the student's performance.

Why IAF initiated the AFCAT normalisation process?

AFCAT Exam was introduced in the year 2011 as an OMR-based paper but in 2019 the Computer Based Test (CBT) was initiated. In 2022, normalisation process was introduced in the exam process. The reason why the normalisation process was introduced in the AFCAT exam is given below: To maintain uniformity in the selection process and judge the merit of the candidates on a common notation Candidates might feel they have been evaluated unfairly as the paper they got in their shift was comparatively tougher than other shifts. Since the IAF could not have a similar question paper for all the shifts, so to end this feeling of unfairness in candidates’ scores, AFCAT normalisation was introduced.

Why AFCAT marks are calculated using the normalisation process?

AFCAT marks are calculated using the normalisation process since the exam is conducted in multiple shifts. Normalisation of marks is done to adjust the difficulty level of the question papers since the exam is conducted in multiple shifts and dates. This is done to maintain transparency in the process.

What is considered a good score in AFCAT exam?

To qualify AFCAT exam, it is ideal that candidates should secure a score between 140 and 160 marks out of 300. In 2022, AFCAT cut off was 157, whereas the cut off for EKT was 18. Candidates are required to secure equal to or more than the cut off marks to qualify the exam. For correct answer, candidates score three marks whereas one mark is deducted for wrong answers. The total marks of candidates are calculated based on the number of correct and incorrect answers. The normalisation formula is applied to calculate the score.

When will AFCAT scorecard be released? What details to check in the scorecard?

AFCAT scorecard is released along with the result. To download the scorecard, candidates need to enter user ID, password and captcha code. The scorecard of AFCAT comprises the following details: Registration number Name of candidates AFCAT cut off Obtained score Qualifying status The hard copy of the AFCAT scorecard is not sent to candidates by post. The scores of candidates are calculated based on normalisation because the exam is conducted in multiple shifts. The normalisation of scores is done to adjust the difficulty level of the question papers held across various shifts. For every correct answer, three marks are awarded to candidates. For incorrect answers, one mark is deducted. No marks are awarded for unattempted questions. The scores are calculated based on the number of correct and incorrect answers.

Will I receive the hard copy of AFCAT scorecard?

AFCAT scorecard can be downloaded online only. The hard copy of the scorecard is not sent to candidates by post. To download the scorecard, candidates need to enter the required credentials. The scorecard displays the scores secured by candidates in the exam.

I am not satisfied with AFCAT result. How to raise complaint?

There is no such facility to raise a complaint against the AFCAT result. The result once announced is considered final and no queries will be entertained by the examination authority. Candidates can file an RTI if they have any queries related to the result. AFCAT result for the online test is prepared out of 300 marks. Candidates clearing the online test are called for AFSB interview. The final merit list is prepared based on the performance in the online test and AFSB interview.

I have forgotten the password while checking AFCAT result. What to do?

To retrieve the password while checking AFCAT result, candidates need to click the ' Forgot Password' tab. The system will ask candidates for some details to retrieve the password. After entering the details, the verification link will be sent to the candidate's registered email ID. After verification, the password will be reset. AFCAT result is valid till the merit list of that particular course is out. Once candidates get eliminated in any of the stages of recruitment. They need to take the test again and apply for a new course.

I am not able to access AFCAT result login window. What to do?

At times due to the heavy load at the server, AFCAT result login window takes time to load. In such case, candidates must keep patience and try to download the result within certain interval of time. AFCAT result can be checked online only. The scorecard can be accessed along with the result. The scorecard can be downloaded by logging with the required credentials. AFCAT scorecard displays the marks secured in the exam.

What is the time period between AFCAT Results and AFSB interview?

The time period between the release of the results for the Air Force Common Admission Test AFCAT and the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview can vary. Typically, the interview process begins several weeks after the results are released. Once the result is declared, candidates can select the AFSB date, time and venue. AFSB interview is conducted at Dehradun (1 AFSB), Mysuru (2 AFSB), Gandhinagar (3 AFSB), and Varanasi (4 AFSB). AFSB interview is conducted in several stages which candidates need to qualify successfully.

What is considered a good score in AFCAT exam?

To qualify AFCAT exam, it is ideal that candidates should secure a score between 140 and 160 marks out of 300. In 2022, AFCAT cut off was 157, whereas the cut off for EKT was 18. Candidates are required to secure equal to or more than the cut off marks to qualify the exam. For correct answer, candidates score three marks whereas one mark is deducted for wrong answers. The total marks of candidates are calculated based on the number of correct and incorrect answers. The normalisation formula is applied to calculate the score.

How to check AFCAT cut off?

AFCAT cut off is announced online along with the result. The cut off is released on the official website of IAF. Candidates securing equal to or more than the cut off marks are called for AFSB interview. The final selection of candidates is done based on the marks obtained in the online test and AFSB interview. The steps to check AFCAT cut off are given below: Visit the official website of IAF Click on the AFCAT scorecard link on the home page Candidates need to enter the required details to login After logging, candidates can check the cut off marks Based on the cut off marks, candidates are selected for the next round of selection process.

What is the AFCAT cut off?

AFCAT cut off is the minimum qualifying marks that candidates need to secure inorder to qualify the exam. AFCAT 1 cut off 2023 was 155 out of 300. In 2022, AFCAT 1 cut off was 157 whereas it was 18 for EKT. In the same year, AFCAT 2 cut off was 157. In 2021, AFCAT 1 cut off was 165 whereas EKT cut off was 30. In 2021, AFCAT 2 cut off was 157 whereas EKT cut off was 18. In 2019, AFCAT 1 cut off was 133 whereas it was 50 for EKT. In 2020, AFCAT 2 cut off was 155 whereas EKT cut off was 40. AFCAT cut off is announced online on the official website. AFCAT cut off is common for all the categories. Candidates securing equal to or more than the cut off marks are called for the next round of selection process.

Does AFCAT has sectional cutoff?

Yes, there is sectional cut-off marks in the exam. Candidates need to secure the overall cut-off marks to get selected for AFSB Interview. Candidates securing equal to or more than the cut off marks are selected for the subsequent rounds of the selection process. Around 10,000 candidates are selected for the AFSB test based on their performance in the online test. The final selection is done based on the performance in the AFCAT and AFSB interview. To qualify the AFCAT exam, candidates need to score between 140 to 190 marks out of 300. This is considered as a good score.

What is the AFCAT cut off?

AFCAT cut off is the minimum qualifying marks that candidates need to secure inorder to qualify the exam. AFCAT 1 cut off 2023 was 155 out of 300. In 2022, AFCAT 1 cut off was 157 whereas it was 18 for EKT. In the same year, AFCAT 2 cut off was 157. In 2021, AFCAT 1 cut off was 165 whereas EKT cut off was 30. In 2021, AFCAT 2 cut off was 157 whereas EKT cut off was 18. In 2019, AFCAT 1 cut off was 133 whereas it was 50 for EKT. In 2020, AFCAT 2 cut off was 155 whereas EKT cut off was 40. AFCAT cut off is announced online on the official website. AFCAT cut off is common for all the categories. Candidates securing equal to or more than the cut off marks are called for the next round of selection process.

How to Check AFCAT result?

AFCAT result is announced online on the official website. To download the result, candidates need to login with the required credentials. The steps to check AFCAT result are given below: Visit the official website of IAF Click on AFCAT Result link on the home page Enter email ID, password, and captcha code The result is displayed on the screen Download the result and take its printout The hard copy of the result is not sent to candidates by post Candidates need to download their results online only. The scorecard and cut off marks are also released along with the result. The scores of candidates are calculated based on the marking scheme prescribed by the examination authority.

Can I check AFCAT result offline?

AFCAT result will be announced online only. There is no facility to check the result offline. The link to check AFCAT result will be made available on the official website of IAF. Candidates can download their results by logging with the required credentials. Candidates qualifying the online test of AFCAT are called for AFSB interview. Normalisation process is followed to calculate the scores.

What is the significance of scoring above the cutoff in AFCAT?

Scoring above the cut off is esstential as it qualifies you for the next stage of the selection process, which is the AFSB interview. However, merely clearing the cutoff does not guarantee selection; a higher score can improve your chances of advancing in the merit list.

AFCAT Result 2025: How to Download AFCAT Scorecard

Q: What is AFCAT merit list?

AFCAT merit list is prepared based on the performance in the online test and AFSB Interview. Separate qualifying marks are decided for the online test and AFSB interview. Candidates are placed in the order of merit on the basis of their total marks secured in both the stages of exams. Allotment of candidates in Permanent Commission/Short Service Commission in Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) and Flying Branches are done based on the number of vacancies, performance in the selection process, and choices given by candidates.

565 Students Q&A

Exam On - 22 Feb '25 - 23 Feb '25

Updated on Jan 23, 2025 15:24 IST

By Anangsha Patra, Deputy Manager – Editorial

AFCAT Result 2025: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will announce AFCAT result 2025 online on the official website. Candidates who will appear in the AFCAT 2025 exam can check their results through the direct link provided on this page. To check AFCAT result 2025, candidates need to enter user ID, password, and captcha code. Based on the result of AFCAT exam, candidates have been shortlisted for AFSB interview. The final AFCAT result 2025 will be announced after the completion of AFSB interview. AFCAT cut off 2025 will be released along with the result.

AFCAT exam is conducted to select Class-I Gazetted Officers in Flying and Ground Duties (Technical and Non-Technical). Candidates are granted Short Service Commission in Flying Branch and Permanent Commission/Short Service Commission in Ground Duties for both Technical and Non-Technical roles.

Q: Why is it important to get a good score in AFCAT exam?

Achieving a good score in AFCAT is important because it increases your chances of qualifying for the AFSB interview. The scores enhances your position in the merit list. This improves the likelihood of selection. This boosts your confidence for subsequent selection stages.

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Q: Is 175 considered a good score for AFCAT exam?

The minimum good score for AFCAT exam 165-175. Candidates need to secure the required score inorder to qualify the exam. Candidates qualifying the online exam are called for AFSB Interview. Candidates need to practice well inorder to qualify the exam. A good score in AFCAT can be categorised as follows:
Minimum Good Score: 165-175, indicating a basic understanding of the subjects.
Competitive Score: 185-195, showing a stronger grasp of the content.
Excellent Score: 200 and above, reflecting high proficiency and thorough preparation.

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Q: What is section-wise weightage in AFCAT exam?

AFCAT exam comprises sections such as General Awareness, Verbal Ability in English Numerical Ability, Military Reasoning, and Aptitude test. Out of the 100 questions, Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test carries 35 questions, Verbal ability in English carries 30 questions, Numerical Ability carries 15 questions, General Awareness carries 20 questions. The Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test section carries a total of 105 marks, Verbal ability in English carries a total of 90 marks, Numerical ability section carries a total of 45 marks, General Awareness section carries a total of 60 marks. Candidates can check below the section-wise weightage of AFCAT exam: Reasoning and Military Aptitude Test: 35 questions and 105 marks Logical Reasoning: 30 questions and 90 marks Numerical Ability: 15 questions and 45 marks General Awareness: 20 questions and 60 marks.

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Q: I am pursuing BA. Am I eligible for AFCAT? I don't have science background.

Yes, you can apply for the AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) even if you are pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree without a Science background. The eligibility criteria for the AFCAT exam are as follows: Nationality: Indian Age: The minimum age should be 20 years and the maximum age should be 24 years as of the date of commencement of the course. Educational Qualification: The candidate must have a graduation degree in any discipline from a recognised university with a minimum of 60% marks or equivalent.

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Q: What is AFCAT marking scheme?

AFCAT marking scheme is prescribed by the examination authority. The marking scheme highlights how many marks are deducted for wrong answers and how many marks are awarded for the correct answers. AFCAT marking scheme is given below: Three marks are awarded for every correct answer One mark is deducted for every incorrect answer No marks are awarded for unattempted questions The score of candidates is calculated based on the number of correct answers after applying a penalty for wrong answers. Candidates should mark the answers correctly in the exam in order to avoid negative marks in the exam. Normalisation of scores is also done as the exam is conducted in multiple shifts. Normalisation of marks is a standard formula which is followed if the exam is held in multiple shifts.

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Q: How does AFCAT score affect the merit list?

AFCAT score is a crucial initial screening criterion. Alongside the AFCAT score, factors like performance in the AFSB interview, medical fitness, educational qualifications, and available vacancies determine your final position in the merit list.

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AFCAT Result 2025

AFCAT result is announced online on the official website-afcat.cdac.in/AFCAT/. To check AFCAT result and download the scorecard, candidates need to log in with email ID, password, and captcha code. Based on AFCAT result, candidates are shortlisted for Air Force Selection Boards (AFSB) interview. Shortlisted candidates can select their AFSB date, centre and time.

AFCAT Result 2025 Overview

Some of the important highlights related to AFCAT result are given below.

Parameters	Details
Name of Exam	Air Force Common Admission Test
Conducting Body	Indian Air Force
Periodicity	Twice a year
Exam Level	National
Mode of Application	Online
Mode of Exam	Online (CBT)
Exam Rounds	Two Stages (Online Test+ AFSB)
Job Location	Across India
Official Website	https://afcat.cdac.in

Also Read: AFCAT dates

AFCAT Result Link

The direct link to check AFCAT result is provided on this page. Aspirants who pass the exam join the elite force in Group A Gazetted Officer positions. Candidates can use the direct result link to check their results.

Steps to check AFCAT Result 2025?

The process to check the AFCAT result is explained below:

Step 1: Visit the official website of IAF

Step 2: Click on AFCAT Result on the home page

Step 3: Enter email ID, password, and captcha code

Step 4: The result is displayed on the screen

Step 5: Download the result and take its printout

The infograph below shows the steps to download AFCAT result:

AFCAT Result: Calculation of Scores

The marking scheme of AFCAT is given below:

Three marks are awarded for every correct answer
One mark is deducted for every incorrect answer
No marks are awarded for unattempted questions
The score of candidates is calculated based on the number of correct answers after applying a penalty for wrong answers

AFCAT Marking Scheme

AFCAT question paper comprises 100 questions. The standard of Numerical Ability questions is of Class 10 level. The standard of questions in other subjects is of graduation level. The total marks allotted to AFCAT exam are 100. The marking scheme of AFCAT exam is given below:

Three marks are awarded for every correct answer
One mark is deducted for every incorrect answer
There are no marks for unattempted questions
Before declaration of result, marks scored by candidates are normalised

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AFCAT Marks Normalisation

In order to rationalise the marks scored by candidates appearing in different shifts in AFCAT exam, normalisation scheme will be followed. The normalisation of AFCAT marks is done based on the statistical methods. The normalisation formula is given below:

How to Correct Discrepancies in AFCAT Result?

IAF maintains integrity and correctness while preparing the result. The entire process of AFCAT result generation is automated. In case candidates find any discrepancies in the result, they should contact the examination authority.

AFCAT Scorecard 2025

AFCAT scorecard is released along with the result. To download the scorecard, candidates need to enter the required credentials. The scorecard displays the section-wise and overall scores.

Details on AFCAT Scorecard

AFCAT scorecard displays the following details:

Registration number
Name of candidates
AFCAT cut off
Obtained score
Qualifying status

Also Read: AFCAT cutoff marks

Screenshot of the candidate's scorecard is given below:

Snapshot of AFCAT Scorecard

AFCAT Merit List

AFCAT merit list is prepared based on the candidate's performance in the online test and AFSB Interview. IAF decides separate minimum qualifying marks for the online test and AFSB Interview. Candidates are placed in the order of merit on the basis of their total marks secured in both the stages of exams. Allotment of candidates in Permanent Commission/Short Service Commission in Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) and Flying Branches are done based on the number of vacancies, performance in the selection process, and choices given by candidates.

What After the Declaration of AFCAT Result?

For AFCAT, IAF prepares a list of candidates who get the minimum qualifying marks on the exam. The qualified candidates are called to appear at one of the Air Force Selection Boards (AFSB) for further rounds. The AFSB centres are at Dehradun (1 AFSB), Mysuru (2 AFSB), Gandhinagar (3 AFSB), and Varanasi (4 AFSB). Only the candidates who apply for the Flying Branch can opt for Dehradun, Mysore, and Varanasi. Qualified candidates need to choose the AFSB date and venue and download AFSB Interview Call Letter.

As per the AFCAT selection process, AFSB Interview is conducted in three stages. The first stage is the Officer Intelligence Rating Test along with Picture Perception and Discussion Test. The second stage is Psychological tests. The third stage is the Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) which is conducted only for the Flying branch.

Also Read:

AFCAT Preparation Tips	AFCAT Selection Process
AFCAT Books	AFCAT Salary

AFCAT Cut off

AFCAT cut off is the minimum qualifying marks that candidates need to secure inorder to qualify the exam. The cut off is calculated based on various factors such as the level of competition, total number of test takers, number of vacancies, difficulty level of the question paper, etc. Candidates can check below AFCAT previous years' cut off marks.

AFCAT 1 Cut off

AFCAT	AFCAT Cut Off	EKT Cut Off
AFCAT 1 2023	155	-
AFCAT 1 2022	157	18
AFCAT (1) 2021	165	30
AFCAT (1) 2019	133	50
AFCAT (1) 2018	155	60
AFCAT (1) 2017	150	60
AFCAT (1) 2016	132	52
AFCAT (1) 2015	126	55

AFCAT 2 Cut off

AFCAT	AFCAT Cut Off	EKT Cut Off
AFCAT 2 Cut off 2022	157	-
AFCAT (2) 2021	157	18
AFCAT (2) 2020	155	40
AFCAT (2) 2018	140	55
AFCAT (2) 2017	160	60
AFCAT (2) 2016	148	60
AFCAT (2) 2015	144	52
AFCAT (2) 2014	123	45