Overview
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is inviting talented ITI graduates to join its workforce as apprentices. This is a fantastic opportunity to serve the nation while gaining professional experience in various technical trades. The recruitment is conducted in a transparent manner with a structured selection process. If you have completed your ITI in a relevant trade, this could be your stepping stone to a successful career in the Armed Forces.
📌 Quick Information
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Post Type | Apprentice (Technical Trades) |
| Total Vacancies | 144 Posts |
| Job Type | Apprenticeship Programme |
| Application Mode | Online Only |
| Stipend | ₹10,500 Per Month |
| Official Website | indianairforce.nic.in |
| Location | Base Repair Depot, Air Force, Chandigarh |
📅 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Start of Online Application | 7th December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 30th December 2025 |
| Written Test Date | 18th January 2026 |
| Interview & Medical Test | 19th January 2026 |
| Merit List Release | 23rd January 2026 |
| Joining Instructions Dispatch | 3rd February 2026 |
| Course Commencement | 9th February 2026 |
📍 Vacancy Details
A total of 144 apprenticeship positions are available across multiple technical trades. Here’s the complete breakdown of vacancies by trade:
| Trade Name | Posts | Trade Name | Posts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fitter | 19 | Carpenter | 2 |
| Painter General | 11 | Sheet Metal Worker | 2 |
| Turner | 10 | Mechanic (Motor Vehicle) | 2 |
| Electrician Aircraft | 10 | Mechanic Maintenance (Chemical Plant) | 2 |
| Mechanic (Instrument Aircraft) | 6 | Maintenance Mechanic | 2 |
| Mechanic Mechatronics | 6 | Power Electrician | 2 |
| CNC Programmer cum Operator | 6 | Mechanic (Electrical Maintenance of Process Plant) | 2 |
| TIG/MIG Welder | 6 | Lab Assistant (Chemical Plant) | 2 |
| Mechanic Mechanical Maintenance (Industrial Automation) | 6 | Desk Top Publishing Operator | 4 |
| Machinist | 8 | Electrician | 4 |
| Machinist (Grinder) | 6 | Electroplater | 4 |
| Chemical Laboratory Assistant | 4 | Welder (Gas & Electric) | 4 |
| Quality Assurance Assistant | 5 | Mechanic Electrical Maintenance (Industrial Automation) | 4 |
| Mechanic Machine Tool Maintenance | 5 |
Total: 144 Vacancies
🎓 Educational Qualifications Required
To be eligible for this apprenticeship programme, you must meet the following qualifications:
Essential Qualifications:
- Class 10th Pass from a recognized board
- Class 12th Pass from a recognized board
- ITI Certification in a relevant trade with minimum 40% marks from a recognized institute (either NCVT or SCVT approved)
Important: Your ITI qualification must be in the same trade for which you are applying. For example, if you have completed ITI in Electrician, you can apply for Electrician Aircraft or Electrician positions.
💰 Stipend / Salary Details
Monthly Stipend: ₹10,500 (Consolidated)
This is a monthly stipend paid to apprentices during the apprenticeship training period. The amount includes all allowances and is fixed at this rate throughout the training period.
🎯 Selection Process
The selection of candidates will be done through a transparent and structured process:
Step 1: Written Test (18th January 2026) An objective-type written examination will be conducted to assess your technical knowledge and aptitude for the chosen trade.
Step 2: Interview (19th January 2026) Shortlisted candidates from the written test will appear for a personal interview where your communication skills, subject knowledge, and motivation will be evaluated.
Step 3: Document Verification Your educational certificates, ITI credentials, and other relevant documents will be verified during this stage.
Step 4: Medical & Physical Test (19th January 2026) A medical examination will be conducted to ensure you are physically fit for the apprenticeship programme. Additionally, the Air Force may conduct fitness tests to assess your physical capability.
Step 5: Merit List Declaration (23rd January 2026) The final merit list will be prepared based on your performance in the written test, interview, and other stages. Selection will be based on merit and availability of vacancies.
⏳ Age Limit
| Age Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 17 Years |
| Maximum Age | 35 Years |
| Age as on | 9th February 2026 (Course Commencement Date) |
Candidates who will be 17 years or older and not more than 35 years of age on the course commencement date (9th February 2026) are eligible to apply.
📑 How to Apply
Applying for the IAF Apprentice Programme is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website Go to the official IAF website at indianairforce.nic.in and look for the apprentice recruitment notification.
Step 2: Register Yourself Click on the online application link and create a new account by providing your email ID and a strong password.
Step 3: Fill the Application Form Complete the online application form with the following details:
- Personal information (name, father’s name, date of birth)
- Contact details (mobile number, email address)
- Address details (permanent and current address)
- Educational qualifications (10th, 12th, and ITI details)
- Trade for which you are applying
- Any other relevant information as requested
Step 4: Upload Documents Scan and upload the following documents as per the required format and size:
- Passport-size photograph (colored)
- Signature
- Class 10th certificate or mark sheet
- Class 12th certificate or mark sheet
- ITI certificate
- Any other relevant documents
Step 5: Review & Submit Carefully review all the information you have entered and ensure it is correct. Once satisfied, submit the application form.
Step 6: Save Confirmation After successful submission, you will receive a confirmation message along with your application reference number. Save this for future reference.
Step 7: Take a Printout Take a printout of the submitted application for your records.
Important Notes:
- Application submission is entirely online. No offline applications will be accepted.
- Ensure you apply before 30th December 2025 (last date).
- You can edit your application before the final submission deadline.
- Apply only for one trade. Multiple applications may lead to rejection.
⚙️ Key Documents Required
Keep the following documents ready before applying. You’ll need to upload scanned copies during application:
Educational Documents:
- Class 10th Passing Certificate or Mark Sheet
- Class 12th Passing Certificate or Mark Sheet
- ITI Certificate or Diploma
- All ITI semester mark sheets (if available)
Identity & Personal Documents:
- Aadhar Card
- PAN Card (if available)
- Voter ID / Driving License
- Birth Certificate
Photographs & Signature:
- Colored Passport-size Photograph (4×6 cm) – JPG format, 100 KB
- Clear Signature – JPG format, 100 KB
Other Important Documents:
- Caste Certificate (if applicable for SC/ST category)
- Disability Certificate (if applicable for PwD category)
- Domicile Certificate (if required by the state)
Document Format Requirements:
- All documents should be scanned clearly
- File size should not exceed 500 KB per document
- Preferred format: JPG, JPEG, or PDF
- Documents must be in color or black-and-white, clear and readable
📘 Important Links
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Click to Download |
| Official Website | indianairforce.nic.in |
| Online Application Portal | Apply Here |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply if I’m pursuing my ITI currently?
A: No. You must have completed your ITI and possess the ITI certificate with minimum 40% marks before applying.
Q2: What happens if my ITI trade doesn’t match the available vacancies?
A: You can apply only for the trade in which you have completed your ITI. Ensure your trade is listed in the vacancy details before applying.
Q3: Is the application fee free?
A: The notification does not mention any application fee. The online application is free of cost.
Q4: Can I apply from outside India?
A: Yes, Indian citizens residing abroad can also apply. However, you must provide a valid Indian contact address and be available for the selection process in India.
Q5: What is the duration of the apprenticeship?
A: The duration of apprenticeship varies from trade to trade, typically ranging from 6 months to 2 years. The exact duration will be mentioned in your joining instructions.
Q6: Will I get a job after completing the apprenticeship?
A: The apprenticeship is a training programme. While there’s no guarantee of permanent employment, successful apprentices may be considered for further opportunities in the IAF or other organizations.
Q7: Can I apply for multiple trades?
A: No. You can apply for only one trade. Multiple applications will lead to rejection.
Q8: What if I miss the application deadline?
A: The deadline is fixed at 30th December 2025. Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances. Apply well before the deadline.
Q9: What is the selection ratio?
A: The IAF typically selects candidates based on merit and available vacancies. The selection ratio can vary depending on the number of applications received.
Q10: Will travel allowance (TA/DA) be provided during training?
A: This information is usually provided in the joining instructions. However, it’s advisable to confirm this from the official website or notification.
💡 Pro Tips for Success
✅ Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last date. Apply at least a week before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
✅ Check Eligibility First: Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria before applying. Missing even one criterion may lead to rejection.
✅ Select the Correct Trade: Choose the trade in which you have completed your ITI. Applying for a different trade may result in disqualification.
✅ Prepare for Written Test: Start your preparation early. Focus on your ITI subject knowledge and general aptitude.
✅ Keep Documents Ready: Scan and save all required documents in advance. This will speed up the application process.
✅ Verify Information: Double-check all information you enter in the application form. Errors can lead to rejection during verification.
✅ Practice Interview Skills: Prepare for personal interview. Be ready to discuss your ITI training, technical knowledge, and motivation to join the IAF.
✅ Maintain Physical Fitness: The IAF values physical fitness. Start exercising and maintaining good health from now itself.
✅ Know Your Trade: Have in-depth knowledge of your ITI trade. Be prepared to explain what you learned and how it applies to the IAF.
✅ Stay Updated: Follow the official IAF website for any updates or changes in the recruitment process.
📌 Special Notes
- Merit-Based Selection: The IAF follows a strict merit-based selection process. There is no reservation or preference based on personal connections.
- Medical Fitness: All selected candidates must pass a medical examination. Any undisclosed medical condition can lead to rejection.
- Training Location: Apprentices will be trained at Base Repair Depot, Air Force, Chandigarh. You must be willing to relocate if selected.
- Conduct & Discipline: As an apprentice in the Air Force, you will be expected to maintain high standards of conduct and discipline at all times.
- Security Clearance: Your background will be verified. Any criminal record or security concerns may lead to disqualification.
Last Updated: 8th December 2025
For Further Information: Visit the official IAF website at indianairforce.nic.in or contact the recruitment cell.
All the Best! 🚀 Serve the Nation with Pr
