In India to pursue pilot trainingb especially through programs like Pilot Common Entrance Test (PILOT CET) which leads to courses like Private Pilot License (PPL) or Commercial Pilot License (CPL) the mandatory educational qualification is 12th standard with PCM subjects. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) also requires candidates to have passed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics to enroll in CPL ground classes. Specifically many institutes require at least 45–50% aggregate in PCM.
If you did not take PCM in 12th there are still pathways you can consider:
Bridge or Equivalence Programs: You can re qualify in PCM via the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) or another recognized board. This allows you to meet eligibility requirements for PPL or CPL training.
Alternative Exams: Some flying schools may accept equivalent PCM exams conducted by themselves though this is less common and not universally recognized by the DGCA.
It s important to note that without PCM in Class 12 or its equivalent you would not be eligible to appear for PILOT CET or commence PPL/CPL training. So your inability to take the entrance exam isn't due to the exam itself but due to the prerequisite academic qualifications set by regulatory authorities and pilot training institutions.
In India, becoming a pilot via entrance exams like PILOT CET almost always requires that you have completed 12th standard with Physics Chemistry and Mathematics (PCM). This requirement is mandated by both the entrance test platforms and the DGCA s licensing criteria for PPL and CPL programs. For instance the PILOT CET’s eligibility clearly states the need for PCM. and DGCA compliant flying schools routinely demand the same for enrollment. A few institutions may hint at minimum PCM percentages starting from 45–50% aggregate.
If PCM was not part of your 12th curriculum, hope is not lost. Many aspiring pilots choose to take bridge courses or register as private candidates via open schooling systems such as the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). This route allows you to add Physics and Mathematics to your qualification and make yourself eligible for pilot training exams. Additionally, some training institutes may permit alternative examinations to establish PCM competence although such alternatives may not always meet DGCA standards.
In essence you haven’t been excluded from becoming a pilot but the first step is to ensure you fulfill the PCM requirement. Once that’s in place, you can confidently proceed toward taking the PILOT CET and beginning your aviation journey.