To become a fighter jet pilot in India, you must join the Indian Air Force (IAF) as a fighter pilot through one of the recognized officer entry schemes. Here’s a brief, structured overview including all relevant exams and the path to reach senior levels:
🛩️ 1. Entry Routes to Become a Fighter Jet Pilot in India
a. NDA (National Defence Academy) Entry – After Class 12th
Eligibility: 12th pass with Physics and Mathematics, age 16.5–19.5 years.
Exam: NDA conducted by UPSC twice a year.
Process:
Written exam
SSB interview
PABT/CPSS (Pilot Aptitude Test)
Medical exam
Training: 3 years at NDA (Pune) + 1 year at Air Force Academy (Hyderabad)
b. CDS (Combined Defence Services) Entry – After Graduation
Eligibility: Graduate (any stream with Physics & Maths at 10+2 level), age 19–24 years.
Exam: CDS by UPSC (Air Force wing).
Process:
Written exam
SSB interview
CPSS
Medicals
Training: Air Force Academy, Hyderabad.
c. AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) – After Graduation
Eligibility: Graduate with 60% marks + 10+2 with Physics & Math; age 20–24 years
Exam: AFCAT (conducted twice a year by IAF).
Entry: Flying Branch.
Process:
Online test
AFSB interview
CPSS
Medicals
Training: Air Force Academy.
d. NCC Special Entry (Flying Branch)
Eligibility: NCC Air Wing ‘C’ Certificate holders; age 20–24 years.
Selection: Direct SSB call (no written test) + CPSS + Medical.
🧠 2. Key Tests and Exams You Must Clear
| Stage | Test | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Entry | NDA/CDS/AFCAT | Competitive written exams |
| Officer Selection | SSB Interview | Psychological + Personal Interview + GTO |
| Pilot Aptitude | CPSS (Computerized Pilot Selection System) | Mandatory for flying role |
| Medical | Air Force Medical Standards | Stringent physical/mental requirements |
🧑✈️ 3. Career Path to Senior Level Fighter Pilot
After joining the IAF as a Flying Officer, here’s how your progression works:
| Rank | Promotion Time (approx) | Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Officer | After training | Flying duties under supervision |
| Flight Lieutenant | 2 years | Independent flying, basic combat missions |
| Squadron Leader | 6 years | Combat missions, training juniors |
| Wing Commander | 13 years | Flight commander, senior leadership roles |
| Group Captain & Above | Based on merit + exams | Commanding squadrons, strategic roles |
✍️ Senior Level Exams:
Promotion exams (Service exams like Part B, Part D).
Staff College course (for senior leadership roles).
Interview boards, annual assessments.
✅ Tips to Clear These Exams
Written Exams (NDA/CDS/AFCAT):
Focus on Maths, English, and General Awareness.
Practice previous year papers and mock tests.
Maintain speed and accuracy.
SSB Interview:
Develop leadership, communication, and team skills.
Practice psychological tests and group tasks.
- Stay confident and self-aware
CPSS:
One-time test; train your reflexes and spatial coordination.
No prior coaching allowed; stay relaxed and focused.
Medical:
Stay fit, avoid color blindness or vision issues.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle and body weight.
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