Is It Necessary to Be from a Science Background to Become a Pilot? Complete Guide 2025

For decades, students in India believed only those from a science background could become pilots. The rules are changing. Today, even students from arts and commerce can pursue their dream of flying, provided they meet certain requirements. Here’s a clear, detailed guide on whether a science background is essential, what the DGCA says, and how anyone can become a pilot in India.

Traditional Requirement: Science Background

Historically, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) required candidates to have completed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics to start commercial pilot training. This was to ensure pilots had the analytical skills needed for flight calculations, navigation, and understanding technical concepts

Table: Traditional Academic Requirements for CPL

Recent Changes: Opening Doors for All Streams

DGCA’s New Approach

No longer strictly science-only: In 2025, the DGCA announced that students from any stream (arts, commerce, science) can pursue pilot training, as long as they clear Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level-even if through an open school like NIOS

Bridge Courses: Candidates without Physics and Maths in 12th can complete an approved bridge course via NIOS to meet eligibility

International Alignment: This move brings India in line with international standards, where aviation authorities focus on performance in aviation-specific exams, not school stream

Pathways for Non-Science Students

If you did not study Physics and Mathematics in 12th, follow these steps:

Enroll in NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling):

Register for Physics and Mathematics as additional subjects.

Pass these exams to fulfill DGCA’s eligibility

Submit NIOS Certificate:

Use your NIOS marksheet as proof of eligibility when applying for pilot training

Proceed with Standard Pilot Training:

Once you meet the subject requirement, your stream (arts, commerce, science) no longer matters

Why Are Physics and Maths Important?

Flight Calculations: Pilots use maths for navigation, fuel planning, and performance checks

Aerodynamics: Physics helps understand how aircraft fly, weather patterns, and instrument readings

Safety: Solid grasp of these subjects is essential for safe and efficient flying.

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Pilot from Any Background

Complete 12th Standard:

Any stream is allowed, but Physics and Mathematics are required for CPL.

Clear Physics and Maths (if needed):

Use NIOS or another open school to add these subjects.

Get Class 2 Medical Certificate:

Visit a DGCA-approved doctor for your initial medical check.

Register for DGCA Computer Number:

Needed 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 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.

Core Subjects for Pilot Training

English proficiency is tested via the DGCA ELP (English Language Proficiency) Test, requiring at least ICAO Level

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can arts or commerce students become pilots?
Yes. By clearing Physics and Mathematics through NIOS or an equivalent, arts and commerce students can pursue CPL training in India

Q2: Is a science background still preferred?
Science makes it easier to grasp aviation concepts, but it’s not mandatory if you clear Physics and Maths separately

Q3: What if I have less than 50% in Physics and Maths?
You may need to reappear for these subjects to meet the minimum marks requirement (usually 50%)

Q4: Is this change in line with global standards?
Yes. Most countries do not restrict pilot training to science stream students

Pilot Training Cost and Timeline

Conclusion

It is not necessary to be from a science background to become a pilot in India. What matters is that you have passed Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level, which you can do even after school through NIOS or similar open schooling. The DGCA’s updated rules make pilot training accessible to students from all streams. With medical fitness, the right academic qualifications, and quality training from a reputed institute like Golden Epaulettes Aviation, your dream of becoming a pilot is within reach-no matter your background.