Indian Air Force (IAF) Group Y (often for roles like Medical Assistant, administrative/non-technical posts) cut off is one of the most watched metrics by aspirants. As the 2025 recruitment cycle advances, candidates are eager to know what the qualifying marks might be, how past cut-offs have trended, and how to strategize their preparation accordingly.
What Is “Group Y” & Cut Off Context
What Is “Group Y” & Cut Off ContextIn the IAF recruitment scheme, Group Y typically includes non-technical trades such as Medical Assistant, civil, administrative, logistics, etc. Candidates must clear multiple phases — an online test (Phase I), followed by physical fitness / adaptability tests (PFAT / adaptation tests), and then medical examination.
The cut off refers to the minimum marks required in the online test / Phase I to qualify for the next stage (PFAT / adaptation). Only those who cross this threshold move ahead. Thus, estimating this cut off is critical for candidates to plan their score buffer.
Past Years’ Cut Off Trends
Past Years’ Cut Off TrendsExamining past trends helps us infer likely cut offs. Several portals have compiled historical data for IAF Group Y. Testbook notes that the IAF Group Y cut off 2025 will be released soon and they maintain a table of previous cut offs.
JagranJosh has published an “Expected Cut Off 2025” article and lists past cut off values for Group Y (out of 50) for various batches:
| Year / Batch | Cut Off (Group Y, out of 50) |
|---|---|
| 2020 Batch 1 | 37.25 |
| 2020 Batch 2 | 33.00 |
| 2019 Batch 1 | 37.25 |
| 2019 Batch 2 | 34.25 |
| 2018 Batch 1 | 36.00 |
| 2018 Batch 2 | 32.75 |
| 2017 | 34 (approx) |
| 2016 | 29 (approx) |
From this, we see:
The Group Y cut off typically ranges from low 30s to high 30s out of 50.
In stronger batches, cut off has gone into high 30s (~36–37+).
In weaker / tougher exam conditions, cut offs have dropped to lower 30s (e.g. ~32–33).
This historical bracket gives us a reference for estimating 2025.
Expected Cut Off 2025 (Online Test / Phase I)
Expected Cut Off 2025 (Online Test / Phase I)Based on past trends and projected competition, JagranJosh provides an expected cut off for 2025:
| Batch / Category | Expected Cut Off 2025 (out of 50) |
|---|---|
| Batch 1 | 38 – 39 |
| Batch 2 | 34 – 36 |
This suggests that the first batch (perhaps earlier / easier shift) may have a somewhat higher cut off, whereas subsequent batches may see a slightly lower threshold due to higher exam difficulty or variance in candidate performance.
To be safe, aspirants should aim to score at least 40+ out of 50 if possible, so as to buffer against an upward shift.
Factors Influencing the Cut Off
Factors Influencing the Cut OffCut off is not static — it fluctuates due to many variables. Understanding these helps you shape strategy:
Exam Difficulty / Paper Variation
If the test is comparatively easier, more candidates score high, pushing the cut off upward. Conversely, a tougher paper can pull cut off downward.Number of Applicants / Competition
More candidates competing for fixed seats increases competition and tends to raise the cut off.Vacancies Available
If the number of positions (for that cycle / batch) increases or decreases, the cut off shifts accordingly.Sectional Minimums / Qualifying Rules
If there are minimum required marks in each section (English, GA, Reasoning etc.), failure in one section can disqualify even if overall is high. This tends to push aspirants to be consistent.Normalization / Multiple Shifts
If the exam is held in multiple shifts, some normalization may be applied to level difficulty variation across shifts.Candidate Performance & Clustering
If many aspirants score closely in a band, small differences may push cut off notch upward to distinguish eligible ones.
What Aspirants Should Target
What Aspirants Should TargetGiven the expectations and trends, here’s how you should set your goals:
Aim above estimate: Rather than targeting exactly 38–39, aim for 42–45 out of 50 to be on the safe side.
Be consistent across sections: Don’t neglect weaker areas; scoring low in one section can hurt your overall even if you exceed cut off in others.
Attempt smartly: Since there is negative marking (–0.25 for wrong, +1 for correct, as per JagranJosh article) , focus on accuracy rather than wild guesses.
Mock & analyze shift variation: Give mocks in multiple time windows to understand how shift difficulty might vary.
Revision & clarity: Reinforce basics across all topics because in a tight cut off scenario, minor errors can cost you the selection.
Steps to Verify Official Cut Off When Released
Steps to Verify Official Cut Off When ReleasedWhen IAF officially releases the cut off for Group Y 2025, here’s how to check:
Visit the official Indian Air Force website (indianairforce.nic.in) or the recruitment / notification section.
Locate the link for “Group Y Cut Off / Merit / Results 2025”.
The cut off may be published as a PDF or through candidate login.
Identify your shift / batch (if cut offs are batch-wise).
Compare your marks with the published cut off to see if you qualify.
Download and keep a copy for your records.
Sample Comparison: Past vs Expected
Sample Comparison: Past vs ExpectedHere’s a compact comparison:
| Year / Batch | Past Cut Off (out of 50) | Expected 2025 Cut Off |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 Batch 1 | 37.25 | 38–39 |
| 2020 Batch 2 | 33.00 | 34–36 |
| 2019 Batch 1 | 37.25 | ~38–39 |
| 2019 Batch 2 | 34.25 | ~34–36 |
So the expected cut offs are closely aligned with historical norms, with a slight upward tilt for stronger batches.
Final Tips & Strategy
Final Tips & StrategyDon’t wait for exact cut off — practice with buffer in mind (target 42+).
Analyze each mock test to see weak points and improve them.
Focus on time management — even if you know all answers, slow pace might cost you marks.
Use past cut off trends as guidance but don’t over-rely — shifts and conditions differ.
Stay updated — once IAF releases the official cut off and merit list, cross-check immediately
