How Much Percentage is Required in 12th to Become a Pilot? Eligibility & Steps 2025

If you want to become a pilot in India, your marks in 12th standard matter. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and most flying schools require you to have a minimum of 50–51% marks in Physics and Mathematics in your 12th board exams to start commercial pilot training. Here’s a complete, practical guide on the minimum percentage, subject requirements, and the step-by-step process to become a pilot after 12th.

Minimum Percentage Required in 12th for Pilot Training

Commercial Pilot License (CPL):
You must have passed 12th (10+2) with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.

Minimum Marks:
Most flying schools and DGCA guidelines require at least 50%–51% in Physics and Mathematics combined

English Proficiency:
Some institutes also ask for a minimum score in English.

What If You Don’t Have Physics or Maths in 12th?

If you didn’t take Physics or Mathematics in 12th, you’re still eligible by:

Enrolling in NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling) for Physics and Maths.

Passing these subjects through NIOS, which is accepted by DGCA for pilot training eligibility

This route is common for commerce or arts students who wish to switch to aviation.

Other Key Eligibility Criteria

Age:

• Minimum 17 years for Student Pilot License (SPL)
• Minimum 18 years for Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Medical Fitness:

Must pass DGCA Class 2 and later Class 1 medical exams (no color blindness, 6/6 vision in one eye, physically fit)

Nationality:

Indian citizen

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Pilot After 12th

• Complete 12th with Physics & Maths:
  Secure at least 50–51% in these subjects. If not, clear them via NIOS.
• Get Class 2 Medical Certificate:
  Visit a DGCA-approved doctor for your initial medical check.
• Register for DGCA Computer Number:
  Needed to appear for DGCA exams.
• Apply to a DGCA-Approved Flying School:
  Submit your 10th and 12th marksheets, medical certificate, and ID proof.
• Start Ground School:
  Study core subjects: Air Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulations.
• Pass DGCA Exams:
  Clear the required theory papers.
• Upgrade to Class 1 Medical:
  Mandatory before starting flying hours for CPL.
• Complete 200 Flying Hours:
  Includes solo, cross-country, night, and instrument flying.
• Apply for CPL:
  Submit all documents and pass the final checks.

Required Documents for Pilot Admission

Medical and Physical Standards

• Vision: 6/6 in one eye (correctable), no color blindness
• Hearing: Normal
• BMI: Within DGCA range
• General Health: No major diseases or impairments

Pilot Training Timeline After 12th

Admission Process: Step-by-Step

• Submit application with marksheets and medical certificate
• Take entrance test (if required by the flying school)
• Attend interview and counseling
• Complete documentation and pay initial fees
• Begin ground and flight training

Cost of Pilot Training in India

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is 50% in 12th enough to become a pilot?
Yes, most flying schools and DGCA require at least 50–51% in Physics and Mathematics for CPL training.

Q2: Can I become a pilot if I have less than 50% in 12th?
You may need to reappear for Physics and Maths via NIOS to meet the minimum marks requirement

Q3: Is English compulsory for pilot training?
Yes, many schools require a minimum score in English and DGCA tests English proficiency.

Q4: What if I studied Commerce or Arts in 12th?
You can clear Physics and Maths through NIOS and become eligible for CPL.

Q5: What medical standards must I meet?
You must pass DGCA Class 2 and Class 1 medical exams, with no color blindness or major health issues

Conclusion

To become a pilot in India, you must pass 12th standard with at least 50–51% in Physics and Mathematics. If you don’t meet this requirement, you can clear these subjects through NIOS and still pursue your dream. Along with academic marks, you must clear medical exams and complete the required flying hours. With the right preparation and support from a reputed institute like Golden Epaulettes Aviation, your journey to the cockpit is well within reach.