Pilot Training After 12th – Eligibility, Courses, Admission Process (2025)

Finishing Class 12 and thinking about flying for a living? You’re not alone. Many students in India dream of becoming pilots, and you don’t need a college degree to get started. If you've passed Class 12 with Physics and Math, you're already eligible to begin pilot training. This guide will walk you through how to start your pilot training after 12th, step-by-step.

If you’re looking for complete support in training, you can check out Golden Epaulettes Aviation’s CPL program.

Why Start Pilot Training After Class 12?

• No college degree needed to begin training.
• You can earn your Commercial Pilot License (CPL) within 18-24 months.
• Saves time and helps you start your aviation career early.
• Ideal for students who are clear about their career path.

Eligibility for Pilot Training After 12th

Before you begin training, make sure you meet the following requirements:

Educational Requirements:

Must have completed Class 12 (or equivalent) with Physics and Mathematics.

If you haven’t studied these subjects, you can apply via NIOS for pilot training.

Age Requirements:

• Minimum age: 17 years to start training.
• Minimum age for CPL: 18 years.

Medical Requirements:

• DGCA Class 2 Medical to begin.
• DGCA Class 1 Medical required for CPL issuance.
• Learn more about DGCA medical requirements here.

Step-by-Step Admission Process for Pilot Training After 12th

Step 1: Complete Class 12 with Science

Ensure you’ve passed Class 12 with Physics and Math. If not, go for the NIOS route.

Step 2: Apply for DGCA Class 2 Medical

This is mandatory before enrollment in a flying school. Once cleared, move on to Class 1 medical.

Step 3: Apply for Computer Number

Register on the DGCA portal to get your unique computer number — needed to sit for pilot exams.

Step 4: Choose a DGCA-Approved Flying School

Choose an institute recognized by the DGCA. Schools like are well-known for CPL training with proper support and facilities.

Step 5: Enroll in Ground School

Start with ground school to prepare for theoretical subjects like Air Navigation, Meteorology, and Air Regulations.

Step 6: Begin Flight Training (200 hours minimum)

Complete your 200 hours of flying, which includes solo, cross-country, night, and instrument flying.

Step 7: Pass DGCA Exams

You must clear five DGCA papers:

• Air Navigation
• Aviation Meteorology
• Air Regulations
• Technical General
• Technical Specific

Step 8: Apply for Commercial Pilot License

Submit your exam scores, flight hours, and medical certificates to apply for your CPL.

List of Courses You Can Take After 12th to Become a Pilot

Here are the core training programs you’ll go through after Class 12:

• Pilot Training Courses:
• Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
• Ground School Training
• Radio Telephony (RTR)
• Multi-Engine Rating
• Type Rating (after CPL)

Explore more about aviation course options.

Topics Covered in Ground School

Ground school is the backbone of pilot training. Here's what you’ll learn:

These subjects help you pass the DGCA exams and prepare for real-world flying.

How Long Does Pilot Training Take After 12th?

On average, pilot training takes 18 to 24 months, depending on weather, DGCA exam clearance, and flying hours. Golden Epaulettes Aviation offers a streamlined timeline with personal mentoring, CPL exam preparation, and flying schedules tailored to you.

Cost of Pilot Training After 12th

Pilot training is a serious investment. Here's a basic cost breakdown:

Golden Epaulettes offers flexible payment plans and help with education loan documentation.

Top Flying Schools in India After 12th

When selecting a school, always go for DGCA-approved institutes. Here are a few:

• Indira Gandhi Institute of Aviation
• CAE Gondia
• IGRUA
• Capt Sahil Khurana Aviation Academy

Make sure to visit the DGCA’s official website to check current approval status.

What You’ll Get with Golden Epaulettes Aviation

At you’ll get:

• Personalized mentoring from experienced instructors
• DGCA exam preparation classes
• Flight training in India and abroad
• In-house Class 2/1 Medical guidance
• Ground school, simulator, and CPL under one program

You can book a counselling session here to get a personalized training plan.

Admission Checklist

Make sure you have the following:

• 10th and 12th Marksheets
• Aadhar Card or Passport
• Passport-sized photos
• Class 2 Medical certificate
• DGCA Computer Number
• NIOS documents (if applicable)

Get more info on CPL admission process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I join pilot training after 12th without Maths and Physics?
Yes, via NIOS. NIOS support available here.

Q2: How do I apply for flying school?
Apply directly to a DGCA-approved flying school. Golden Epaulettes offers online and walk-in application options.

Q3: Do I need to pass an entrance exam?
Not for all schools. But aptitude tests and interviews are common.

Q4: Can I do pilot training abroad after 12th?
Yes. Many students train in the USA, South Africa, or Canada and later convert their license in India.

Q5: What’s the career path after CPL?
You can go for Type Rating and apply to airlines as First Officer.

Final Advice for Students After Class 12

If you’re passionate about flying, now is the perfect time to act. Starting pilot training after 12th gives you a head start. With the right planning, institute, and mindset, you can be job-ready in less than two years.

For expert guidance, visit Golden Epaulettes Aviation’s homepage and take your first step toward the skies.