Which entrance exam is required to become a pilot in India?

To pursue pilot training in India particularly the Commercial Pilot License (CPL) route, there is no single unified national entrance exam mandated by the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation). However, many reputable flying training organizations and academies require candidates to clear specific entrance exams to assess their aptitude and eligibility.

One of the most widely used entrance tests is the Pilot Common Entrance Test (Pilot CET). This online exam available in both Hindi and English comprises 90 multiple choice questions over 1.5 hours and evaluates subjects like Physics, Mathematics English and reasoning. The Pilot CET score, valid for three years, serves as a basis for merit-based admissions and scholarship allocation to top flying schools offering PPL (Private Pilot License) CPL or ATPL training.

Other institutions use different entrance exams such as the AME CET (Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Common Entrance Test) which may be adapted for pilot course admissions in certain academies. Additionally some defense route aspirants aiming for careers as fighter pilots must clear national level exams like NDA (National Defence Academy) or CDSE, administered by UPSC earlier in their educational journey.

Once admitted to a DGCA approved flying school, aspirants must pass DGCA licensing examinations encompassing theory papers in Air Navigation, Air Regulations, Aviation Meteorology, Technical General and a Restricted Radio Telephony (RTR) exam via WPC to obtain their CPL.

Moreover recent 2025 reforms by DGCA propose expanding eligibility to students from arts and commerce streams no longer just science students for CPL training, pending final approval from the Ministry of Civil Aviation. This change aims to broaden access and inclusivity in pilot training.

To become a pilot in India, most candidates take the Pilot CET exam for entry into flying schools. After that they must clear mandatory DGCA theory exams to secure their CPL. Different pathways including defense or specific academies may involve additional exams like NDA or AME CET depending on the institution or career route chosen.

Which entrance exam is required to become a pilot in India?

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