Can arts and commerce students become pilots in India? The 2026 position
It is one of the most common questions we hear: "I took commerce. Can I still become a pilot?" The answer today is yes, with one extra step.
The current rule
To get a commercial pilot licence (CPL) in India you need 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics. This requirement has applied since the mid-1990s, and many people consider it unusual by international standards.
The proposed change
In 2025 the DGCA recommended dropping the requirement so that students from any stream could train, subject to medical and other tests. Reports in April and May 2025 said:
- The DGCA had sent its recommendation to the Ministry of Civil Aviation
- If approved, the change would be notified through the Ministry of Law and Justice
- The physics and maths pilots need are largely taught before Class 12 anyway
Until a change is formally notified in the official gazette, the existing rule applies. We have not seen a notification as of October 2026. Always check the DGCA's latest instructions before you plan.
The route that works today: NIOS
Students without Physics and Mathematics in Class 12 can take these subjects through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). Once you pass them, you meet the educational requirement. Many students do this alongside DGCA ground classes.
Other requirements stay the same
- Minimum age: 16 for a student pilot licence, 17 for a PPL, 18 for a CPL
- DGCA Class 2 medical to start flying, Class 1 for the CPL
- DGCA theory papers and RTR(A)
Our advice
Do not wait for the rule to change. If you are from arts or commerce, start NIOS Physics and Maths now. You can begin DGCA ground preparation at the same time, because the subjects use the same concepts.
Frequently asked questions
Can a commerce student become a pilot in India?
Yes. Under the current rule you need Physics and Mathematics at 10+2, which you can pass through NIOS. A proposal to remove this requirement had not been notified as of October 2026.
Has DGCA allowed arts students to become pilots?
The DGCA recommended it in 2025, but the change only applies once the government notifies it. Check the DGCA's current rules.
What is the minimum age for a CPL in India?
18 years. You can get a student pilot licence at 16 and a PPL at 17.
Sources
- https://www.businesstoday.in/amp/latest/trends/story/can-arts-commerce-students-pursue-pi…
- https://www.deccanherald.com/india/arts-commerce-students-eligible-for-pilot-training-dgc…
- https://carveraviation.com/faq/
We summarise public reports in our own words. Check the original sources and official DGCA notices for the latest position.