Can I Apply for AFCAT EKT with Below 60 in Engineering?

The Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) is a critical part of the Indian Air Force (IAF) Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT). This test is designed to evaluate the basic engineering knowledge of engineering graduates who are applying for technical entry through AFCAT. Below, we explore the eligibility criteria, including the minimum scores required in engineering, age limits, and educational qualifications.

EKT Overview

Engineered to test the foundational engineering knowledge of applicants, EKT is conducted before you start the 2-hour written part of AFCAT. The test is divided into two sections:

Part-A: General Engineering - 40 questions Part-B: Specialized Paper - 35 questions

Passing the EKT with at least 60% in engineering is a mandatory requirement. But what happens if your engineering score is below 60? This article explores this question in detail.

EKT Eligibility Criteria

Nationality and Marital Status

Nationality: Candidates must be Indian citizens.

Marital Status:

Candidates below 25 years of age must be unmarried at the time of commencement of the course. Widows/Widowers and divorcees under 25 years of age are also not eligible. Candidates who marry after their application will not be eligible even if successful at SSB or medical. Candidates who marry during training will be discharged and must refund all government expenses.

Age Limits

Flying Branch through AFCAT NCC Special Entry: 20 to 24 years as of 01 July 2021, i.e., born between 02 July 1997 and 01 July 2001 (inclusive).

Upper Age Limit for Commercial Pilot: Candidates with valid and current Commercial Pilot License can be up to 26 years old (born between 02 July 1995 and 01 July 2001, inclusive).

Educational Qualifications

Flying Branch

Pass with a minimum of 50 marks each in Maths and Physics at 10 2 level. Graduation with a minimum of three years from a recognized university with a minimum of 60 marks or equivalent. BE/B Tech degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 60 marks or equivalent. Candidates who have cleared Sections A and B of the Associate Membership of Institution of Engineers India or Aeronautical Society of India with a minimum of 60 marks or equivalent.

Ground Duty Technical Branch

Minimum 60 marks each in Physics and Mathematics at 10 2 level. Four years degree in Engineering/Technology or cleared Sections A and B exam of the Institution of Engineers India or Aeronautical Society of India with a minimum of 60 marks or equivalent in specific technical disciplines as listed.

Ground Duty Non-Technical Branch

Passed 10 2 and 3-year graduate degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 60 marks or equivalent or cleared Sections A and B of the Institution of Engineers India or Aeronautical Society of India. Post-Graduation with 50 in any discipline including integrated PG Single degree without permission to exit and lateral entry. Graduates with a minimum of 60 marks in Graduation in any discipline or BE/B Tech degree from a recognized university. Candidates who have cleared Sections A and B of the Institution of Engineers India or Aeronautical Society of India with a minimum of 60 marks or equivalent.

Application with Below 60 in Engineering

While the cut-off for engineering is at least 60%, it's worth noting that applicants with below 60 can still apply under certain conditions. If you have less than 60 in engineering but fit within the specified age and educational qualifications, you may still be eligible to apply. However, your chances of clearing may depend on factors beyond just your engineering score, such as your specialization and academic performance in other subjects.

For detailed guidance, it's advisable to contact the official AFCAT website or a dedicated IAF recruitment officer. They can provide specific advice based on the latest update in regulations.

Conclusion

While the minimum requirement for engineering is 60%, the IAF is willing to consider applicants with lower scores if they meet other eligibility criteria. Success in the EKT still relies heavily on a mix of education qualifications, age, and relevant experience.