Can I Become a Commercial Pilot Without a Science Background?
Posted on : 12 November, 2025 04:36 pm
Many students dream to choose flying as their future career but have taken a non-PCM stream in 12th but there is a myth that only a science background student can become a pilot. After completing 12th standard with any stream weather it is arts or commerce, students can still make a successful career in aviation. Its just need a right training, eligibility & passion to become a pilot & learn how to fly an aircraft and get a CPL. After meeting the basic requirements, students can join a DGCA-approved flying school through scholarship based exams like Pilot CET & AME CET to start their pilot training journey.
Basic Eligibility
Before joining the CPL course, students have to meet several eligibility requirements regardless of any stream which are given below:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Class 12th with PCM / 3 Years engineering polytechnic Diploma |
| Minimum Marks | Minimum 50% aggregate in PCM |
| Entrance Exams | Pilot CET, AME CET |
| Age Requirement | Minimum 17 years at the time of admission (must be 18 years to get CPL) |
| Medical Fitness | Must pass DGCA Class 2 and Class 1 medical examinations conducted by authorized medical examiners |
Options for Non-Science Students
If student have chosen a non PCM stream in 12th and havent studied Physics and Maths in 12th standard, they dont need worry about whether they can build a successful career in aviation or not. Below is given some options which student can opt for CPL training or can do except commercial flying:
- Students can qualify Physics and Maths exams through NIOS or any equivalent open schooling board. After passing in these subjects students will become eligible to join CPL training.
- If student wants to learn flying just for passion, hobby or fun and not as a full-time job then students can apply for a PPL (Private Pilot License). It allows students to fly small aircraft for personal use.
- You can also pursue another aviation related courses like AME, BBA in Aviation, Airport Management or Ground Staff Training. These courses offer exciting career options in airlines and airport operations.
- Another good option is that you can join cabin crew or flight attendant course, where you can travel the world and work in the aviation industry without needing Physics or Maths.
Why Science Matters?
Science plays a very important role in pilot training. It helps future pilots understand the principles behind flying, navigation and aircraft control. Heres how each subject makes a difference:
-
Physics Explains How Aircraft Fly
- Physics helps you understand the basic forces of flight like lift, drag, thrust and weight etc.
- It explains how aerodynamics keeps an aircraft in the air.
- You learn how air pressure and airflow affect the wings and engines.
- This knowledge helps pilots handle situations like turbulence or air resistance confidently.
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Maths Helps in Navigation and Planning
- Pilots use Maths to calculate fuel, altitude, speed and flight distance.
- It also helps in navigating accurately, adjusting the aircrafts route and predicting flight times.
- Even small calculation errors can affect safety so strong Maths skills are very useful.
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Understanding Aircraft Systems
- Science helps pilots learn how different aircraft systems work.
- For example, hydraulic, electrical & fuel systems all follow scientific principles.
- Understanding these helps pilots identify and solve issues quickly during flight.
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Weather and Environment Awareness
- Physics also helps in understanding meteorology (weather science).
- Pilots learn how temperature, wind and humidity impact flight performance.
- This knowledge helps them make safer flying decisions during bad weather or storms.
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Builds Confidence and Decision-Making Skills
- Having a science background gives pilots strong analytical thinking.
- It helps them solve problems calmly during unexpected situations.
- This confidence ensures safe, professional and well-planned flights.
Getting a CPL not just require a good knowledge in PCM subjects but Passion, dedication and proper training is what really matter. CPL career welcomes anyone who is determined to become a pilot regardless of which subject you have taken as your 12th stream. If you are a Non-PCM student dreaming to build a successful o flying career in aviation industry then you can start your journey today by appearing for Pilot CET, AME CET (scholarship based exam) with the right preparation you can complete your training, earn your CPL and take off into a professional aviation career worldwide.