New Delhi : Following the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has increased the upper age limit for Agniveer recruitment. For Agniveer Air Force Recruitment 2026, eligible candidates aged 17.5 to 22 years can now apply. Earlier, the maximum age limit was 21 years. This move provides relief to candidates who had missed applying due to being overage.
According to sources from the Ministry of Defence, this change will allow more young aspirants to join the scheme.
Application Details:
The application window for recruitment has reopened. Eligible candidates can apply between 3 March 2026 and 10 March 2026 at iafrecruitment.edcil.co.in/agniveervayu. Earlier, applications had closed on 8 February 2026.
Age Criteria:
- New Upper Age Limit: 22 years (Born between 1 January 2005 and 1 July 2009, inclusive)
- Previous Upper Age Limit: 21 years (Born between 1 January 2006 and 1 July 2009, inclusive)
Educational Qualification:
- Science Stream: 10+2 (Intermediate) with Mathematics, Physics, and English, minimum 50% marks in aggregate and in English. Engineering diploma holders are also eligible.
- Other Streams: 12th pass from a recognized board with minimum 50% marks in aggregate and English.
Application Fee: ₹550 + 18% GST for all categories, payable online.
Selection Process:
- Stage-I (Online Exam): Computer-based objective test with 0.25 negative marking for incorrect answers.
- Stage-II (Physical Test): 1.6 km run in 7 minutes for men and 8 minutes for women, along with push-ups, sit-ups, and squats.
- Stage-III (Medical Examination): Health check-up according to Air Force standards.
Salary and Service Benefits:
Selected candidates will receive a monthly salary of ₹30,000 in the first year, increasing to ₹40,000 by the fourth year of the four-year service period. After completing four years, Agniveers will receive a “Seva Nidhi” package of approximately ₹10.04 lakh. Additionally, 25% of Agniveers may be considered for permanent cadre in the Air Force based on performance.