What is a Good Score in AFCAT 2026? Tips to Score Better

The AFCAT Exam is one of the most sought-after Air Force Common Admission Tests. The Phase 1 exam is scheduled for Jan 31, 2026. The ones appearing for the exam often ponder over what is the highest score in AFCAT. The AFCAT cutoff generally lies between 150-160, thus you must try to score near this range to continue the AFCAT selection process. A good AFCAT score lies between 165-170 out of 300.

A dream to serve in the Indian Air Force can be achieved through the Indian Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT). The ones attempting the AFCAT 1 2026 Exam are advised to go through the AFCAT good score range shared in the sections below for their reference.

Understanding What is a Safe Score in AFCAT 1?

AFCAT is a 300-mark paper and your performance in the paper will decide your eligibility for the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview process and then a place in the merit list. But what is a good score in AFCAT?

This range is sufficient to understand the basic subjects tested in AFCAT. Yes, it can get you an interview call but that does not mean that you will be placed in the final merit list. If you score between 180–190, you are in a competitive position. It shows good preparation and can help you to pass the selection process.

Most of you will score in the range of 200 – 250, which is considered a good score in AFCAT. If you have scored 200 or more in AFCAT, it is a good score then you are among the top contenders and your chances of getting your desired branch are very high.

The final merit list will be prepared based on the AFCAT Normalization Scheme. Therefore, here is a quick breakdown of what these scores mean in terms of competitiveness.

Also Check: How to Score 200+ in AFCAT 1025?

How Much Percentage Required for AFCAT and Why to Aim It?

Clearing the AFCAT 1 2026 cutoff may seem enough, but a higher score gives you a huge advantage. Your AFCAT written score and AFSB interview performance are considered for the final merit list. That’s why you should aim for a high AFCAT score.

• A higher AFCAT score (200+) can give better chances to competitive branches like the Flying Branch.
• In general, a poor AFSB performance can be compensated by a good written score, and it is easier to get a slot.
• If you score high, you get flexibility in choice; you can choose between multiple branches as per your choice.
• If you have scored 200+ in the AFCAT, your merit ranking will be higher, and you will have a higher chance of getting a seat even if the vacancies are fewer in your desired branch.
• A strong score is a buffer against unpredictable AFSB interview performance, and your final selection is not based on interview marks alone.
• The higher your AFCAT score, the better it is for you, as you have an edge over thousands of aspirants, and your overall selection chances in a highly competitive exam are higher.
• AFCAT written marks are considered for the final merit list; therefore, higher marks will increase the probability of getting recommended and clearing all selection stages without any problem.

How to Score Good Marks in AFCAT 1?

Once you have understood how many marks are required to clear AFCAT, then you must go through the tips and tricks to score it. Here are some of the best tips and strategies to prepare better and aim for a good AFCAT score.

• Master the Basics: Make sure that you are comfortable with the basic concepts in all the subjects – General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability and Reasoning.
• Time Management: Practice under timed conditions. It can save valuable minutes knowing when to skip a tough question and come back to it later.
• Mock Test: Take as many mock tests as possible to know your weak areas. It replicates the real exam environment and helps you to get used to exam day nerves.
• Strategic Guessing: Develop a knack for educated guessing. If you can eliminate one or two wrong answers, it’s usually worth taking a calculated risk.
• Revisit important topics regularly: Revision is key. It makes you remember things and makes you more confident.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid While Preparing for AFCAT

Apart from this, it is also important to know and avoid common mistakes to get a good AFCAT score.

• AFCAT is all about balance, and you should not overemphasize one subject. Give all sections proportionate time.
• Current affairs and general knowledge are unpredictable, but you must keep yourself updated.
• Don’t spend too much time on the hard questions. If you have time, move on and come back later if time permits.

Scoring good marks in AFCAT can set the difference between just qualifying or excelling in the AFCAT 1 2026 Exam. Success is possible with a strategic approach, consistent practice, and a balanced focus on all subjects during the AFCAT 2026 preparation journey. While knowledge is important, your dedication and perseverance are equally important to get a good AFCAT score. With the right tools, strategies, and mindset, you’ll be soaring high in no time!