The Basics
WHEN TO APPLY
You can apply for a pilot cadetship with Jetstar or Rex during Year 12. For the Cathay Pacific and Virgin programs you need to wait until you pass Year 12 and receive your results.
We recommend you start preparing for the aptitude tests and interviews during Year 11, or at the beginning of Year 12. PATS are experts in preparing students for the Airline Cadetship selection tests – the pass rate among our clients has been above 95% in both 2010 and 2011.
HOW TO SPEED UP THE APPLICATION PROCESS
Many of the processes involved can take months, so the earlier you get started the better:
1. Obtain your Aviation Reference Number (ARN)
2. Obtain your Class One Medical
- This is especially important to organise quickly. If you can’t qualify for a class one medical certificate, you cannot become a commercial pilot.
3. Book an appointment with a Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (DAME), then book an appointment with a Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist (DAO).
WHICH SUBJECTS TO STUDY IN YEAR 12
This recommendation exceeds the pre-requisites to become an Airline or Military Pilot, but gives you strong exposure to the important communication rich subject areas. Talk to your school Careers Advisor for more guidance.