What the programme is
IndiGo runs airline-linked cadet pathways with approved training partners. The aim is simple: take ab-initio candidates through DGCA CPL training plus an Airbus A320 type rating under a curated, airline-standard syllabus. IndiGo’s careers page lists current partners and confirms that the cadet route is designed to deliver CPL + A320 TR in a focused way.
You still earn a DGCA licence and pass DGCA exams via PARIKSHA; the cadet route just standardises quality and sequencing around IndiGo’s operating standards. Regulatory rules live in DGCA Section 7 (Flight Crew Standards, Training & Licensing).
Who runs the training
IndiGo’s careers page names multiple partners—CAE, Skyborne, Flight Training Adelaide (FTA), L3 Harris, Insight Aviation, Chimes Aviation Academy, Garuda Aviation, NZICPA, Marigold—and links to their cadet pages for intake details. Always apply via the official links listed there.
- CAE – IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme describes a self-sponsored track culminating in CPL and A320 type rating.
- Skyborne – IndiGo Cadet describes a mentored pathway with dual FAA & DGCA licences for the US training route and notes an LOI (Letter of Intent to employ) from IndiGo when selected—always read the fine print.
Eligibility — what IndiGo material and partners say
Exact criteria can vary slightly by partner and intake. Check the current partner page each time.
- Age and academics: IndiGo’s public PDF “Becoming a Pilot” notes 18–35 years, Indian or OCI, and 10+2 with Physics, Maths, and English (minimum 51%) for ab-initio cadet entry. A separate IndiGo page (License to Fly) mentions 18–32 for the cadet programme. Treat the partner’s current intake page as final.
- Medical: DGCA Class 1 is required before course commencement; candidates may apply initially with Class 2 and upgrade as instructed by the programme. DGCA publishes Class 1 medical examiner resources and process on its site.
- Language: You’ll need operational English. DGCA implements English Language Proficiency (ELP) standards within Section 7; partners may test English during selection as well.
The selection flow — what to expect
IndiGo’s PDF outlines a multi-stage assessment: written tests in Maths, Physics, and English; psychometric evaluations; group task/discussion; and an interview. Only those who pass are offered a cadet place. Partners mirror this flow in their own screening.
At a glance:
- Online application on the partner’s cadet page (linked from IndiGo careers).
- Screening tests — academics and English.
- Psychometrics and group exercise — teamwork, decision-making, CRM behaviours.
- Interview and verification — documents and motivation.
- Medical clearance — Class 1 before start.
- Offer/seat allocation — some partners note an LOI conditional on performance and operational needs.
How to apply — step-by-step
- Start on IndiGo’s careers page → Flight Operations → Cadet Pilot. Click the official partner link for your chosen intake. This ensures you avoid copycat sites.
- Create your application on the partner portal. Fill personal details, 10+2 marks in Physics/Maths/English, and upload ID as specified. Keep scans ready in the exact file formats.
- Book the selection slot and complete online/centre assessments as instructed by the partner.
- Undergo medicals — if not already Class 1, the programme will guide you on upgrading from Class 2; check DGCA’s official list of Class 1 examiners and appointment process.
- Register on DGCA PARIKSHA for your theory exams once instructed (Computer Number, scheduling, results). Partners will tell you when to align ground school with exam windows.
- Track official email/SMS from the partner for admission, visa steps if your phase is overseas, and pre-joining instructions.
Training arc — what the course delivers
IndiGo’s “Becoming a Pilot” PDF states the core path: CPL-MEIR followed by A320 type rating. If an overseas phase is included, the foreign CPL is converted to a DGCA CPL on return, with composites and required Indian-registered hours. On graduation you should hold CPL (with night rating), Multi-Engine, Instrument Rating, and A320 TR.
Partners detail their own variants:
- CAE — IndiGo-designed, self-sponsored track to CPL and A320 TR.
- Skyborne — US training with dual FAA & DGCA licensing; IndiGo-mentored path and LOI note.
Regulatory standards for licensing and training quality sit with DGCA Section 7; flying/ground syllabi and type ratings are approved under these requirements.
Documents to keep ready
- Identity — Passport, Aadhaar (IndiGo PDF explicitly references Aadhaar at admission).
- Education — 10+2 mark sheets with Physics, Maths, and English; equivalency if from a non-standard board.
- Medical — Class 2 for initial application if permitted; Class 1 mandatory before start.
- Photos/signature — follow pixel/format rules if the partner uses automated verification similar to PARIKSHA standards.
- Category certificates if applicable for loans/scholarships.
Costs and funding — the realistic view
Partners will publish the current fees and payment schedules. Do not rely on third-party numbers. For financing, use PM-Vidyalakshmi for education loans, and check any state concessional-loan schemes that explicitly include CPL. Combine bank financing with any eligible scholarships you find on National Scholarship Portal or reputable aviation associations. (See your earlier “DGCA Scholarships” article for a verified funding roadmap.)
DGCA touchpoints you cannot skip
- Section 7 — source of truth for licensing, training, and ELP requirements.
- PARIKSHA — register, get your Computer Number, book CPL/ATPL theory papers, and track results.
- Class 1 Medical — book only through DGCA-empanelled examiners/centres.
Practical tips that save time
- Apply only via IndiGo’s official links to partners listed on the careers page — this avoids out-of-date or look-alike sites.
- Note the age criteria on your specific intake. IndiGo material references 18–35 in its PDF, while another IndiGo page mentions 18–32. Partners will state the final intake criteria.
- Keep medicals moving. Upgrading to Class 1 early prevents start-date delays.
- Plan around PARIKSHA sessions. Align ground school and exam bookings; keep an eye on the Notice Board.
Short FAQ
Is a job guaranteed after I finish?
Employment is conditional on performance and operational needs. For example, Skyborne mentions an LOI from IndiGo for selected cadets, but that still depends on meeting all standards and checks. Always read the partner’s current terms.
Do I still have to pass DGCA exams?
Yes. Cadets take the same DGCA theory via PARIKSHA, meet the same flight experience and skill-test requirements, and hold the same DGCA licences and ratings.
Where do I see the official partner list?
On IndiGo’s careers site under Flight Operations → Cadet Pilot — it names partners and links to their pages.
What medical do I need?
Class 1 before starting training; some intakes let you apply with Class 2 and upgrade before course commencement. Use DGCA’s official medical pages to locate examiners.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, applicants are advised to refer to the official DGCA Pariksha portal and consult authorized professionals or aviation training institutions for guidance tailored to their specific cases. Wing Path and the authors are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from misinterpretation or misapplication of the information provided.