Are there any eyesight requirements for the AFCAT exam?

Yes, there are specific eyesight requirements for the AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) exam. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has set these requirements to ensure that candidates have adequate visual acuity to perform their duties effectively and safely. Here are the details of the eyesight requirements for the AFCAT exam:

1. Visual Acuity Standards:
- Candidates should have 6/6 vision in one eye and 6/9 in the other eye, without correction (i.e., without wearing glasses or contact lenses).
- If the candidate uses glasses or contact lenses, the visual acuity should be 6/6 in one eye and 6/6 in the other eye.

2. Refractive Error Standards:
- Myopia (Near-sightedness): The maximum permissible limits are -3.5 D in any meridian in each eye.
- Hypermetropia (Far-sightedness): The maximum permissible limits are +3.5 D in any meridian in each eye.
- Astigmatism: The maximum permissible limits are 2.5 Cyl in any meridian in each eye.

3. Color Vision:
- Candidates should have normal color vision. They should be able to identify and differentiate between colors accurately.

4. Squint:
- Candidates should not have squint (strabismus). The alignment of the eyes should be normal, and there should be no evidence of squint.

5. Binocular Vision:
- Candidates should have binocular vision and should have a good fusion faculty. They should be able to appreciate depth perception and have 3D vision.

6. Eyelids and Conjunctiva:
- Candidates should have healthy eyelids and conjunctiva. There should be no evidence of any active or chronic infection or inflammation.

7. Fundus Examination:
- Candidates should have a normal fundus examination, without any evidence of pathology or disease.

8. LASIK Surgery:
- Candidates who have undergone LASIK surgery are eligible for the AFCAT exam only if the surgery was done before the age of 20 years and the visual acuity is fully corrected to 6/6, without any residual refractive error.

It is important for candidates to meet these eyesight requirements to be eligible for the AFCAT exam. If a candidate fails to meet these standards, they may be deemed medically unfit for service in the Indian Air Force. It is advisable for candidates to undergo an eye examination before applying for the AFCAT exam to ensure they meet the required standards.