Candidates interested in enrolling in a cadet pilot program must satisfy specific regulatory and academic prerequisites to qualify. These requirements ensure that applicants possess the foundational skills and certifications necessary for safe and effective pilot training. Understanding and fulfilling these criteria is essential for successful admission.
Meeting these baseline standards verifies that applicants have the necessary legal, medical, and educational background to progress into advanced pilot training. It also aligns with aviation regulatory mandates governing cadet admissions.
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Program Name
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Class Type
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Batch Start Date
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Enroll Now
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#1
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DGCA Ground Classes
Preparatory Classes |
Online/Offline
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4th Sept, 2025
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#1
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INDIGO CADET PROGRAM
Preparatory Classes |
Online/Offline
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1st Sept, 2025
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Enroll Now |
The prerequisites for a cadet pilot program are designed to assess a candidate’s academic, medical, physical, and cognitive readiness for professional flight training. Applicants must have completed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics, possess a valid DGCA medical certificate (Class 2 and later Class 1), and meet the minimum age requirement of 18 years. Additional requirements include English language proficiency, strong communication skills, and the ability to pass an airline-specific aptitude test such as ADAPT. A clean background check and sound physical fitness are also mandatory. These criteria ensure candidates are capable of handling the technical and operational demands of a commercial aviation career. Meeting all prerequisites is the first step toward airline placement and a structured pilot training journey.
What is a Cadet Pilot Program?
A Cadet Pilot Program is a structured training pathway designed to prepare aspiring pilots for direct entry into commercial airlines. Offered in collaboration with airline companies and flight training organizations, the program covers ground school, simulator sessions, and actual flight training. It ensures candidates are trained to airline standards from day one. Most cadet programs come with a Letter of Intent (LOI), which assures a job upon successful completion of training. This makes it a direct and reliable route into the aviation industry. The curriculum typically includes DGCA syllabus coverage, soft skills development, and airline-standard procedures. The program aims to develop professional, cockpit-ready commercial pilots.
To enroll in a Cadet Pilot Program, candidates must have completed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics from a recognized board. The minimum percentage required typically ranges between 51% and 60%, depending on the airline. English proficiency, both written and spoken, is mandatory since all training and exams are conducted in English. Students who did not have Physics or Mathematics in school can take supplementary exams through recognized open schooling systems like NIOS. While a graduate degree is not compulsory, it may give candidates an edge during interviews. Academic consistency and strong fundamentals in science subjects are highly valued. All educational documents are verified as part of the application process.
Eligibility Summary Table
| Criteria | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics |
| Minimum Marks | 51% – 60% (based on airline) |
| English Proficiency | Mandatory |
| Graduation | Optional but advantageous |
| Supplementary Exams | Accepted via NIOS |
| Recognized Boards | CBSE, ICSE, State, NIOS |
Key Points:
Medical fitness is a critical requirement for becoming a commercial pilot. Candidates must clear DGCA Class 2 medical exams initially, followed by Class 1 before starting flight training. These medical assessments test physical health, vision, hearing, mental well-being, and overall fitness. The Class 1 medical must be conducted by DGCA-authorized medical examiners. Failing to meet medical standards can disqualify a candidate, even if other criteria are met. In parallel, aspiring pilots are encouraged to clear DGCA ground subjects like Air Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulation, and Technical General to fast-track their training. Passing these exams in advance strengthens the candidate’s profile during selection and interviews.
The minimum age to apply for a cadet pilot program is 18 years, and while there is no strict upper limit, most airlines prefer candidates under the age of 32. Good physical fitness is essential for the demanding nature of pilot training and future responsibilities in commercial aviation. Minimum height requirements vary by airline but generally fall around 158 cm, with proportional weight. Vision must meet DGCA standards, and corrective lenses are allowed within prescribed limits. There should be no history of psychiatric illness or any physical disability that can impair flight performance. Candidates are advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle and routine medical check-ups.
The selection process for cadet pilot programs typically includes multiple stages such as aptitude testing, group discussions, and personal interviews. The ADAPT test, widely used by airlines, assesses cognitive ability, multitasking skills, psychomotor coordination, and logical reasoning. Successful candidates proceed to the group discussion round, which evaluates communication, leadership, and teamwork skills. The final interview is conducted by airline or academy professionals and focuses on personality, motivation, technical knowledge, and overall suitability for the cockpit environment. Each stage is elimination-based, and thorough preparation is crucial. Candidates should demonstrate confidence, clarity, and professionalism throughout the process.
Cadet pilot programs are significant financial investments, with total training costs typically ranging between INR 80 lakhs to INR 1.5 crores, depending on the training location and airline. The program includes ground school, flight hours, simulator time, and living expenses in some cases. In return, most programs provide a Letter of Intent (LOI), which assures candidates a job as a First Officer upon successful completion of training and licensing. This job assurance is one of the main benefits of cadet programs, setting them apart from self-sponsored training. Financing options, scholarships, and bank loans are often available to support eligible students.
The cadet pilot program offers multiple advantages, including structured training, airline-aligned curriculum, job assurance, and faster career progression. Trainees receive hands-on experience with modern aircraft and simulators under the guidance of certified instructors. Upon successful completion, cadets typically join the airline as Junior First Officers and gradually progress to Senior First Officer and Captain based on hours and performance. The program reduces the uncertainties of job hunting post-training, which is common in self-funded pathways. A cadet pathway also instills discipline, technical proficiency, and airline culture from day one, ensuring long-term career success in aviation.
Your Career Deserves Clarity, Not Confusion
To join a cadet pilot program, candidates must have completed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. The minimum marks required range from 51% to 60%, depending on the airline. For example, IndiGo accepts candidates with 51% while Air India typically requires 60%. The education must be from a recognized board such as CBSE, ICSE, or State Board. Candidates who haven’t studied Physics or Math in school can take additional subjects through NIOS. Having a solid academic foundation in science helps during technical training and aptitude tests. Good academic performance reflects discipline and mental readiness for aviation. Most airlines conduct document verification during the selection process.
Academic Eligibility Table
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Qualification | 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics |
| Minimum Percentage | 51% to 60% (airline-specific) |
| Accepted Boards | CBSE, ICSE, State, NIOS |
| Supplementary Exams | Accepted via NIOS |
| Graduation | Not mandatory, but adds value |
| Medium of Instruction | English preferred |
| Documentation | Verified during selection |
Key Points:
The minimum age required to apply for a cadet pilot program is 18 years. While there is no fixed upper age limit by DGCA, most airlines prefer candidates below the age of 32–35. Airlines look for long-term potential and physical agility, which is often associated with younger candidates. That said, many candidates up to 35 years old have successfully entered training programs and airlines. Age can influence selection, especially when comparing similar profiles. Airlines also consider age at the time of course completion, not just at the time of application. Early application ensures a wider range of opportunities. Age relaxation is generally not offered.
Key Points:
Most airlines and aviation medical authorities require a minimum height of around 158 cm for both male and female candidates. This is to ensure that the candidate can comfortably reach the aircraft controls and has full visibility during flight operations. The height requirement is linked to cockpit ergonomics and safety protocols. In some cases, arm reach may also be measured to ensure control accessibility. Some foreign cadet programs have slightly different standards, but Indian DGCA guidelines generally follow this range. Candidates below the minimum height may be disqualified during the medical stage. Height must be proportional to body weight for health reasons.
Key Points:
Medical fitness is a crucial prerequisite for any cadet pilot program. Candidates must first obtain a DGCA-approved Class 2 medical certificate, followed by a Class 1 medical certificate before beginning flight training. These medicals assess vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and overall physical and mental wellness. Vision must meet strict criteria, and limited corrective lenses may be allowed. The Class 1 medical is more comprehensive and is conducted by DGCA-authorized centers only. Candidates are advised to complete Class 2 medical early to identify any issues. Regular physical fitness and health maintenance are essential for long-term pilot performance and license renewal.
Key Points:
Cadet pilot applicants are encouraged to clear DGCA CPL theory exams in advance, including Navigation, Meteorology, Regulations, and Technical General. While not mandatory before joining the program, clearing these exams early provides a competitive advantage. Candidates who pass DGCA subjects can skip ground school in some modules and focus on flying. These subjects also appear in technical interviews and knowledge assessments. Passing DGCA exams before program selection can speed up the overall training timeline. Many candidates enroll in ground school coaching to improve success rates. Strong conceptual knowledge is crucial for flight planning and in-flight decision-making.
Key Points:
The cadet pilot selection process usually consists of three main stages: an aptitude test (like ADAPT), a group discussion, and a final personal interview. The ADAPT test assesses cognitive skills, hand-eye coordination, multitasking, and logical reasoning. Candidates who clear the aptitude round move on to group discussions, which test communication, leadership, and situational awareness. The final interview evaluates motivation, attitude, and technical knowledge. Each stage is elimination-based, so consistent preparation is essential. Airlines look for candidates with a balanced skillset — intelligence, maturity, and team spirit. Soft skills matter as much as technical accuracy.
Key Points:
A clean legal background is mandatory for all cadet pilot applicants. Candidates must not have any criminal record, past convictions, or involvement in unlawful activities. Airlines conduct background verification through official agencies and require police clearance certificates before final enrollment. Professional behavior, discipline, and ethical conduct are key expectations in the aviation industry. Any falsification of documents or misrepresentation during application leads to disqualification. Even minor legal issues may impact visa processing if training is conducted abroad. Maintaining a good character and integrity is essential throughout the selection and training period.
Key Points:
Proficiency in English is a core requirement in all cadet pilot programs. Since all aviation communication, training, DGCA exams, and aircraft manuals are in English, candidates must have strong spoken and written English skills. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings in the cockpit and during emergency procedures. During the selection process, communication skills are assessed in interviews and group discussions. Candidates should also be familiar with aviation-specific terms and technical vocabulary. A good command of English improves situational awareness and CRM (Crew Resource Management). Candidates from non-English backgrounds are advised to take language training before applying.
Key Points:
Cadet pilot training is a high-investment program with costs typically ranging from ₹80 lakhs to ₹1.5 crores. This includes ground training, flying hours, simulator time, uniforms, accommodation, and sometimes visa expenses. Despite the cost, the major advantage is job assurance via a Letter of Intent (LOI) provided by the airline after successful program completion. This letter serves as a conditional job offer, subject to license issuance and performance. Many institutions offer loan assistance, EMI options, or bank tie-ups to support eligible students. Transparency in cost and job guarantee is a crucial factor when selecting a training partner.
Cost Overview Table
| Item | Estimated Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Ground Training | ₹10–15 lakhs |
| Flying Hours (200+ hrs) | ₹35–60 lakhs |
| Simulator Training | ₹10–15 lakhs |
| Visa, Travel, Stay (if abroad) | ₹5–15 lakhs |
| Total Program Cost | ₹80 lakhs – ₹1.5 crores |
Key Points:
Both 10+2 pass and graduate candidates are eligible for cadet pilot programs. A graduate degree is not compulsory, but it may offer an edge during interviews and long-term career growth. Airlines prioritize aptitude, communication skills, and performance over academic level. Candidates with technical or science degrees may find it easier to grasp DGCA subjects and flight systems. However, several successful pilots have come straight from school without a college degree. Ultimately, airline-specific requirements and candidate potential matter most. Completing graduation before applying is a personal decision based on time, cost, and career planning.
Key Points:
The Cadet Pilot Program is one of the most structured and reliable pathways to becoming a commercial airline pilot. It offers a well-defined training route, starting from ground school to airline-specific simulator sessions, and culminates in direct placement with leading airlines. With eligibility open to 10+2 students and graduates, the program is accessible to a wide pool of aspirants who meet medical, academic, and aptitude standards. While the cost is significant, the job assurance and fast-track career growth make it a worthwhile investment. Choosing the right training partner, preparing thoroughly, and understanding all prerequisites will significantly increase your chances of success. For anyone serious about a long-term career in aviation, a cadet pilot program offers unmatched structure, support, and career opportunities.
1. Is a degree mandatory for joining a cadet pilot program?
No, a graduate degree is not mandatory. Candidates who have completed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics are eligible.
2. What is the duration of a cadet pilot program?
The program typically lasts between 18 to 24 months, depending on the training location and weather conditions.
3. Can I get a loan for the cadet pilot program fees?
Yes, many training academies have tie-ups with banks for education loans. Candidates must meet eligibility criteria.
4. What is the success rate of cadet pilot program placements?
Most cadet programs come with a Letter of Intent (LOI), ensuring placement if training and licensing are completed successfully.
5. Do I need to clear DGCA exams before joining?
It's not mandatory, but clearing DGCA subjects in advance can give you an edge in selection and training.
6. What happens if I fail the medical examination?
Failure to clear DGCA Class 1 medical disqualifies you from commercial pilot training. A Class 2 medical is the first step.
7. What is the minimum height requirement?
Most airlines require a minimum height of around 158 cm to ensure safe cockpit operation.
8. Can I work for international airlines after completing a cadet program in India?
Yes, with experience and valid licenses, you can apply to international airlines, subject to their conversion requirements.
9. How many flying hours are included in the training?
Typically, cadet programs include 200+ hours of flying as part of the CPL (Commercial Pilot License) training.
10. Which are the most reputed cadet pilot programs in India?
Programs affiliated with IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet are considered highly reputed for structure and placement.
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