APPLICATIONS

Pre-entry requirements

The basic requirements are as follows:

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have achieved a minimum of 5 GCSEs. These should include Mathematics and a science based subject at a level of Grade C GCSE or higher (or the equivalent thereof).

For the level of Maths and Physics required, please try out our sample Maths and Physics Quizzes.

For further revision of these important subjects, try the BBC's Bitesize website for Maths and Physics.

Those accepting an offer to join an Integrated Course must be in possession of a JAA Class 1 Medical Certificate. The initial examination for this Certificate is completed at the Civil Aviation Authority Aeromedical Centre based at Gatwick Airport.

Before embarking on an intensive and expensive course of training, it is of paramount importance that applicants discover whether they have the aptitude and commitment to succeed. It is vital that a student completes the course to a good standard, for recommendations of suitability to be made to airlines on completion.

The College works closely with operators to determine the level of skills and personality required to work as a First Officer. Accordingly, we require all applicants to successfully complete a formal assessment before being offered a place on the Integrated programme.


Assessment

Assessment sessions are normally conducted over one day at Cranfield in our new dedicated Airline Preparation and Assessment Centre, and are intended to identify any element of training risk. Potential students will be asked to complete written aptitude examinations in Mathematics and Physics, as we are required by JAA Regulations to ensure that all entrants possess an adequate knowledge of these subjects.

Applicants will also be required to complete the computer based Pilapt Profile. This comprises six tests, which are set as part of a continuous session. There are three psychomotor co-ordination tests and three cognitive ability/information processing tests all designed to determine the ability of the ab initio entrant to succeed in training.

Applicants will be interviewed in order to establish a personality profile. Account will be taken of academic and career achievement, leisure/group activities and motivation to fly.

Results are compiled and evaluated at the end of the session and Assessors will determine whether or not a place can be offered. On the basis of these results, it may be decided that some form of extra preparation or foundation is necessary, and advice will be offered in this regard.

ICAO Language Proficiency Standard Level 4 is required for issue of a Professional Pilots licence, so for students commencing pilot training, this will be relevant. During the interview we will be monitoring the following areas – pronunciation, stress, rhythm and intonation, and that vocabulary range and accuracy are sufficient to communicate effectively.

Those successful at assessment will be issued with a document which will include their results and the firm offer of a place on a First Officer Direct course. Also included will be a full Proposal of Costs and a copy of our Terms and Conditions of Business.

Funding Solutions

Cabair College of Air Training continues to be able to offer through their funding partners access to individually tailored loan schemes, to help with your training expenses. These loan schemes may also be able to provide you with your full tuition fees plus an amount towards living costs. In order to apply for a loan, the applicant will have to successfully pass the Pilot Assessment and formally be offered a place at the College.

Currently, we are working with Nat West Private Banking to provide funding options, and they sometimes attend our Seminars in order to talk to prospective students on a one to one basis. Please see the Seminars page for further details.