What is EKT in AFCAT

July 17, 2025
5:43 pm

What is EKT in AFCAT

What is EKT in AFCAT Everything You Need to Know all details by NDA coaching in UP

In this detailed guide created by Shield Defence Academy, known as the best NDA coaching in UP, we’ll walk you through everything about EKT in AFCAT —its structure, eligibility, syllabus, preparation tips, and more. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear roadmap to crack this technical hurdle and soar high with the IAF. Planning to join the Indian Air Force through AFCAT? If you’re aiming for the Technical Branch, then you must know about EKT—the Engineering Knowledge Test. Many aspirants are aware of AFCAT, but few understand the role and significance of EKT.

AFCAT & EKT – The Basics

What is AFCAT?

AFCAT, or Air Force Common Admission Test, is the primary written exam for recruiting candidates into the Indian Air Force across three main branches: Flying, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical).

What is EKT in AFCAT?

EKT stands for Engineering Knowledge Test. It is an additional test conducted right after the AFCAT paper, exclusively for candidates applying for the Technical Branch. This test evaluates your understanding of engineering concepts and stream-specific knowledge.

Why is EKT Important?

EKT serves as a filter to ensure that only technically capable individuals move forward in the recruitment process for technical roles. It assesses your command over your core engineering subjects, validating your ability to handle the technical responsibilities within the IAF.

Who Needs to Take EKT?

Eligibility Criteria

Only those candidates who have pursued or are in the final year of their engineering degrees in specified disciplines (such as Electrical, Mechanical, or Computer Science) are eligible for the Technical Branch and hence, must take EKT.

Applicable Branches

EKT is mandatory for:

Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics)
Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical)

If you apply for the Flying or Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches, you do not need to appear for the EKT.

EKT Exam Pattern

Mode of Exam

Format: Online (CBT)
Conducted Immediately after the AFCAT paper

Duration

45 Minutes

Number of Questions & Marking Scheme

Total Questions: 50
Maximum Marks: 150
Marking:
- +3 for each correct answer
- –1 for each incorrect answer
- 0 for unanswered questions

EKT Syllabus – What You Need to Study

The syllabus is divided into three streams based on engineering backgrounds:

1. Mechanical Engineering

Thermodynamics
Engineering Mechanics
IC Engines
Strength of Materials
Theory of Machines

2. Computer Science/IT

Operating Systems
Programming Languages (C, C++, Java)
Data Structures and Algorithms
Computer Networks
Software Engineering

3. Electrical & Electronics

Basic Circuit Theory
Digital Electronics
Microprocessors
Communication Systems
Control Systems

Each candidate must select one stream based on their educational qualification. The Shield Defence Academy syllabus plan includes topic-by-topic coverage and weekly progress tracking.

How to Prepare for EKT – Smart Tips

Manage Time Wisely

Create a study plan that balances both AFCAT and EKT. Ideally, dedicate at least 1.5 to 2 hours daily to technical subjects.

Use Quality Study Resources

Use trusted engineering books and EKT-focused materials. Shield Defence Academy provides stream-specific modules that make learning efficient.

Practice Makes Perfect

Mock tests, previous year papers, and quizzes help boost speed and accuracy. Make it a habit to take at least two mocks per week.

Shield Defence Academy’s Unique Strategy

Being among the top NDA coaching centres in UP, Shield Defence Academy offers structured and result-driven EKT preparation:

Expert Instructors

Classes are led by experienced faculty from engineering and defence backgrounds.

Personal Mentorship

Each student is assigned a mentor to guide through difficult subjects and track progress.

Regular Assessments

Weekly tests and mock exams are designed to replicate actual exam scenarios, helping you build confidence.

AFCAT vs EKT – Key Differences

Feature	AFCAT	EKT
Who Takes It	All AFCAT candidates	Only Technical Branch aspirants
Subjects	English, Reasoning, GK, Math	Engineering Core Subjects
Duration	2 Hours	45 Minutes
Total Marks	300	150
Eligibility	Any graduate	Engineering graduates

Top Books for EKT Preparation

Mechanical Stream

“Mechanical Engineering for Competitions” by R.K. Jain
“Thermal Engineering” by R.S. Khurmi

Computer Science

“Let Us C” by Yashwant Kanetkar
“Operating System Concepts” by Galvin

Electronics/Electrical

“Principles of Electrical Engineering” by V.K. Mehta
“Digital Electronics” by Morris Mano

Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing for EKT

Neglecting Core Subjects

Don’t take your engineering fundamentals lightly. EKT is technical and requires conceptual clarity.

Skipping Revision

Without consistent review, even strong topics fade over time.

Not Solving Mocks

You must practice under time limits to succeed. Mocks highlight both strengths and weak points.

EKT Cut-Off Trends & Safe Score

Past Cut-Offs

2022: Around 40 marks
2023: 42–45 marks

Safe Score

Aim for 50–60 marks to ensure you comfortably cross the cut-off and secure your position in the merit list.

What Happens After EKT?

Next Steps in Selection

If you clear EKT in AFCAT, you’re called for the SSB interview, followed by medical tests.

EKT’s Role in Merit

Your EKT score is crucial—it contributes to your final merit position for Technical Branch selection.

Real Success Stories – Shield Defence Academy Alumni

At Shield Defence Academy, students have successfully cracked EKT with structured guidance. One such example is Ankur Singh, now an IAF officer, who attributes his success to weekly mock drills and focused one-on-one mentoring sessions at the academy.

His advice? “Stick to basics, follow a disciplined routine, and don’t skip the mocks!”

Conclusion ABOUT EKT in AFCAT

To wrap it up, the Engineering Knowledge Test (EKT) is your gateway to joining the Technical Branch of the Indian Air Force. It’s not just an exam; it’s a crucial step in proving your engineering capabilities.

Whether you’re from Mechanical, CS, or Electrical backgrounds, cracking EKT requires consistent preparation and smart strategies. The best way to succeed is with expert mentorship—and that’s exactly what Shield Defence Academy, the leading NDA coaching institute in UP, offers.