No, you don’t need to be a bachelors or college degree to become a pilot. That’s one of the most common misconceptions about flight training, especially for those just entering the aviation world. The truth is, becoming a licensed pilot depends on FAA certifications, not academic degrees.
Tablet: Becoming a pilot depends more on passing FAA certifications than holding a college diploma.
FAA Pilot Certifications vs. Bachelor or Academic Degrees
To fly an aircraft legally, the FAA requires certifications like the Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. These licenses are earned through flight hours, checkrides, and written exams — not through college coursework.
At The Pilot Studio, we’ve trained pilots from all walks of life — some with advanced degrees, others with none. What matters is skill, discipline, and passing the FAA standards.
So Why Do Airlines Ask for Degrees?
Historically, many major airlines preferred or required a bachelor’s degree. But times are changing. Due to pilot shortages and evolving industry needs, many regional airlines, cargo operators, and even some majors no longer require a degree. Instead, they focus on flight time, safety record, training quality, and professional conduct.
A degree might give you an edge or help in a competitive hiring environment, especially for corporate or international flying, but it is not required to start or complete your pilot training.
Should You Still Consider College?
If your goal is to work in a large airline’s flight deck, especially internationally, or move into aviation management, airline operations, or instruction, then having a degree could open more doors. But if your main focus is to fly, you can absolutely start your training first, build your flight time, and even pursue a degree later — often online and at your own pace.
At The Pilot Studio, we’ve seen students go from zero hours to professional pilots without setting foot in a college classroom — and others combine both for a well-rounded career. There’s no one-size-fits-all path.
What’s the Best Path for You?
Ask yourself:
- Do I want to fly professionally or just recreationally?
- Am I planning to work for an airline that still prefers degrees?
- Can I focus on flight training now and get a degree later?
- What’s the most affordable and direct route to my goals?
One of the best ways to start is by taking a demonstration flight to see if aviation is truly your calling. From there, we’ll help you map out your training — with or without a degree.
Final Thoughts
A degree can help, but it’s not required. What really matters is your training quality, flight hours, professionalism, and commitment. The cockpit doesn’t care about your GPA — it cares that you know your stuff, and can safely fly the aircraft.
For more on FAA requirements and career pathways, visit the FAA resource to explore the licensing process in detail.