Science v/s Arts/Commerce Students – Who Can Become a Pilot Now? DGCA’s New Rules Explained
For decades, one of the most common questions among aviation aspirants in India has been: “Do I need to be from a Science background to become a pilot?” Traditionally, the answer was Yes—only students with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level were considered eligible for commercial pilot training under the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) rules.
But things are changing. In 2024–25, DGCA proposed an amendment in eligibility rules for appearing in CPL exam, still pending for final approval from the Ministry- a progressive relaxation in rules, allowing Arts and Commerce students to pursue pilot training. This marks a historic shift in Indian aviation training, giving opportunities to all streams students.
So, does Science still hold an advantage? How can Arts and Commerce students enter aviation now?
Traditional Eligibility – The Science Route
The eligibility criteria to apply for a Student Pilot License (SPL) or Commercial Pilot License (CPL) in India required is as below:
- Age: Minimum 17 years for SPL, 18 years for CPL.
- Educational Qualification: 10+2 or equivalent with Physics and Mathematics.
- Medical Fitness: DGCA Class I Medical Certificate.
This meant that students from Science (PCM) backgrounds had a direct entry into pilot training but it was not the same for arts and commerce students. They didn’t need any additional courses—their Class 12 certificate was sufficient to register for DGCA exams like Air Navigation, Air Regulations, Meteorology, and Technical General.
Advantages for Science Students
- No additional eligibility.
- Due Science background familiarity with concepts
- Strong base for future ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) subjects.
DGCA’s Entry for Arts/Commerce Students
Recognizing the growing demand for pilots in India (over 1,000 new pilots required annually), DGCA has eased its stance.
Now, Arts and Commerce students apply for pilot training but need to fulfill certain criteria:
- Complete Class 12 in any stream (Arts, Commerce, Humanities, or Vocational).
- Appear for Physics and Mathematics as additional subjects through:
- NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling), or
- Any recognized board/university that offers Physics & Maths at the senior secondary level.
Key Rule
It is not mandatory to select Physics and Mathematics during school itself, even after graduation if you want to become a pilot you can clear these exams through NIOS and once you clear these subjects, you are eligible to as equivalent to Science students, making you eligible for DGCA licensing exams.
Pilot Career in India After 12th | Step-by-Step Guide 2025
Science v/s Arts/Commerce – A Comparative Breakdown
| Factor | Science Students | Arts/Commerce Students (After DGCA’s new rules) |
| Eligibility | Direct after Class 12 PCM | Must clear Physics & Maths separately (e.g., through NIOS) |
| Time Taken | Faster entry into flight school | 6–12 months extra for additional subjects |
| Cost | Standard CPL cost (₹45–60 lakhs) | Slightly higher (₹5,000–₹20,000 extra for NIOS subjects + delay cost) |
| Learning Curve | Easier grasp of aerodynamics, navigation | May initially struggle with technical subjects |
| Opportunities | Airlines, corporate aviation, charter, defense conversion | Same opportunities once licensed |
| Advantage | Early start | Flexibility to shift into aviation later |
Step-by-Step Pathway for Arts & Commerce Students
If you’re from Arts or Commerce and want to become a pilot, here’s the roadmap:
- Complete Class 12 in any stream.
- Register for Physics & Maths through NIOS or a recognized board.
- NIOS offers On-Demand Exams (ODE), which allow flexible scheduling.
- Clear both subjects successfully.
- Apply for DGCA Class II Medical (first step before training).
- Enroll in a Flight Training Organization (FTO) approved by DGCA.
- Apply for Computer Number (registration with DGCA).
- Start Ground School + Flying Training (200 hours minimum for CPL).
- Pass DGCA exams (Air Navigation, Air Regulations, Meteorology, RTR, etc.).
- Obtain Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
Why This Change Matters
1. Wider Talent Pool
Earlier, only Science students had access, limiting the talent base. Now, anyone with passion can pursue aviation.
2. Career Flexibility
Students who initially chose Arts/Commerce for law, business, or humanities can now switch to aviation without restarting school.
3. Meeting Pilot Shortage
India is the third-largest aviation market and faces a pilot shortage. This reform ensures a steady inflow of trainees.
4. Level Playing Field
Once Physics & Maths are cleared, DGCA treats all candidates equally, regardless of their stream.
Challenges Arts/Commerce Students May Face
- Extra Time: Mandatory to clear secondary level exam with Physics and mathematics before applying.
- Conceptual Gaps: Without prior exposure, subjects like aerodynamics, navigation, and meteorology may feel tougher.
- Perception Bias: Some airlines and instructors may still prefer Science-background candidates, though officially both are equal.
- Financial Impact: Due to rise in fees every year for flying training schools, and clearing additional 12th exams as well incur more cost.
Tips for Non-Science Aspirants
- Starting Early with NIOS – Registering simultaneously for Physics and Maths exam along with your Commerce/Arts 12th exam will certainly save your time and money.
- Build a Strong Foundation – Use online resources, coaching, or bridge courses in Physics & Maths to prepare for DGCA subjects.
- Stay Consistent – Since Training is expensive, plan your finances beforehand.
- Focus on Medicals – To prevent surprises later, get your DGCA Class II medical completed even before you begin.
Future Outlook – Will Rules Relax Further?
In other parts of the world, countries like the US and Canada do not strictly require Physics & Maths to be studied at the school level. The concepts are imparted later in ground school.
