Can I Join IndiGo Cadet Program After 12th? Eligibility, Process & Complete Guide 2025

Yes, you can join the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program directly after completing your 12th standard, provided you meet the specific eligibility criteria set by IndiGo and its training partners. This program is designed for fresh school graduates who aspire to become airline pilots and offers a direct, structured pathway to a cockpit career with IndiGo.

Eligibility Criteria for IndiGo Cadet Program After 12th

To apply for the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program after 12th, you must fulfill these requirements:

Note: A diploma is not accepted unless you have an equivalency certificate confirming it is the same as 10+2 with Physics, Maths, and English

Step-by-Step Process to Join IndiGo Cadet Program After 12th

1. Complete 10+2 with Required Subjects

• Ensure you have Physics, Mathematics, and English as separate subjects.
• Score at least 51% in each subject individually.
• If you don’t have these subjects, you can complete them via NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling)

2. Obtain DGCA Medical Certificate

• Start with DGCA Class 2 Medical Certificate (required at application stage).
• Upgrade to DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate before starting flight training

3. Prepare Required Documents

• 12th marksheet with required subjects and marks.
• Medical certificate (Class 2 or Class 1).
• Valid passport and ID proof (Aadhar card or equivalent).
• Board verification certificate if requested
• Resume and any additional forms as per the training partner.

4. Apply Online

• Visit the official website of IndiGo’s training partners (CAE, Chimes, Skyborne, Insight, etc.) or for guidance.
• Fill out the application form and upload all required documents.

5. Selection Process

Stage 1: Online Assessment
Includes pilot aptitude test, hand-eye coordination, technical reasoning, mathematics, and general aptitude

Stage 2: Group Activity/Discussion
Assesses communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills

Stage 3: Personal Interview
One-on-one interview with IndiGo selection panel to evaluate motivation and suitability

Medical Verification:
Ensure you meet all medical standards before final selection.

6. Letter of Intent (LOI) and Training

• If selected, you receive a Letter of Intent from IndiGo.
• Proceed to commercial pilot training (CPL) at designated flying schools (e.g., NFTI Gondia, CAE, Skyborne)
• Complete CPL, A320 type rating, and airline induction training.

IndiGo Cadet Program Pathway: Training Structure

Required Documents for Application

• 10th and 12th marksheets (with 51% in Physics, Maths, English)
• DGCA Class 2 or Class 1 Medical Certificate (CA-35)
• Valid Indian passport and Aadhar card
• Board verification certificate (if requested)
• Recent passport-size photographs
• Resume

Key Points to Remember

• No prior flying experience is required to join the IndiGo Cadet Program after 12th
• NIOS and open school marksheets are accepted if you meet the subject and marks criteria
• English language proficiency is essential for all stages of selection and training
• Medical fitness is mandatory-start your medical process early to avoid delays
• Diploma holders must provide equivalency certificates or complete 10+2 via open school

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I join IndiGo Cadet Program immediately after 12th?
Yes, as long as you have 51% or more in Physics, Maths, and English individually, and meet age and medical criteria

Q2: Is prior flying experience required?
No, you can apply as a fresher after 12th

Q3: Are NIOS marksheets accepted?
Yes, with the required subjects and marks

Q4: What is the age limit?
Generally, 18 to 35 years at the time of application, depending on the training partner

Q5: What if I have a diploma instead of 12th?
You need an equivalency certificate showing your diploma equals 10+2 with Physics, Maths, and English, or you must complete 12th via open school

Sample Selection Process Timeline

• Application Submission: 1–2 weeks
• Online Assessment: 1 week after application
• Group Discussion & Interview: 2–3 weeks after assessment
• Medical Verification: Parallel with other stages
• Final Selection & LOI: 1 month after interview
• Training Start: 1–2 months after LOI

Total time from application to training: 2–4 months (varies by intake and partner)

Program Fees and Funding

Total cost: ₹80 lakhs to ₹1 crore (including CPL, type rating, and induction)

Funding:

• Education loans available from leading banks and NBFCs.
• Golden Epaulettes Aviation provides guidance for loan applications and financial planning.

Scholarships:

• Limited; mostly merit-based or for reserved categories.
• Some training partners offer partial fee waivers for top performers.

How Golden Epaulettes Aviation Can Help

Ground School Classes:
DGCA exam prep, small batches, expert instructors.

Simulator Training:
Airbus A320 sessions (20, 30, 60 minutes) for real-world skills.

Workshops and Counseling:
Career guidance, parent counseling, and interview prep.

Loan and Documentation Support:
Help with education loan applications and document verification.

Mock Tests and Interview Prep:
Practice for aptitude tests, group discussions, and personal interviews.

Conclusion

You can join the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program right after 12th if you meet the eligibility criteria: 51% or more in Physics, Maths, and English, age 18–35, and DGCA medical fitness. The process involves online application, assessments, group discussion, interview, and then structured CPL and type rating training. With support from Golden Epaulettes Aviation for ground school, simulator training, and documentation, your journey from 12th standard to the IndiGo cockpit is within reach.