1. Prerequisites

What are the entry requirements to the IAPT programme?

+ General / Educational
	+ Above 18 years of age
	+ Have at least GCE “A” level or equivalent educational qualifications
	+ Possess good proficiency in the English language and a good background in    Mathematics and Physics

 

+ Medical
	+ Possess the CASA Class 1 medical certificate
	+ Have a minimum visual acuity of 6/9 with optical aids

Do I have the qualities to be a commercial pilot?

Only you can answer this question.

Anyone who is physically able can fly an aeroplane. However, being a commercial pilot means having the ability to handle an aeroplane to such a high standard that other people are willing to pay for your services.

In order to achieve the standard required takes hard work; many hours of studying to understand the theories and systems used in flying, and even more hours practicing and learning different skills needed to fly professionally.

Most people who succeed in commercial aviation have above-average initiative, self-discipline, willingness to learn, patience and perseverance. Does this sound like you?
 

I am not a Singaporean. Can I apply?

Yes, foreigners are welcomed.

If English is not your first language, you will need to furnish proof of your English Language proficiency via IELTS or TOEFL results, subject to your attainment of minimum standards prior to course commencement.
 

I did not attempt the Physics subject at GCE “O” and/or GCE “A” levels examinations. Am I eligible to apply to STATA?

Having a good academic background in Physics will greatly aid your understanding of theory concepts during training. However, it is not a mandatory requirement for our applicants.
 

I am a Singaporean currently serving my National Service. When should I submit my application to STATA?

You must have fulfilled your National Service obligation before training commencement. Ideally, you should submit your application to us about 3 to 6 months prior to your completion.
 

3. I am in my 40s. Am I too old to pursue pilot training?

While there is no stipulated age limit on an individual applying for Student Pilot Licence, your medical fitness (as assessed during Class 1 medical examination) may deteriorate as you grow older.

You will also need to consider other factors such as employability after training completion.
 

Can I do the course on a part time basis?

The IAPT programmes are conducted on a full-time basis due to the intensity and heavy workload of the theory and practical training.
 

 2. Application / Enrollment

How do I apply for the IAPT programme with STATA?

The following documents are required at the point of application:
a.	Completed Application Form with 1 passport sized photograph
b.	A copy of your identification card / passport
c.	A copy of your educational certificates and transcripts
d.	Payment of application fee (non-refundable)
e.	A copy of your flight experience documents (if any)
f.	For Non-native English speakers: A copy of your IELTS or TOFEL results (if any)

After the submission of your complete application, STATA will invite shortlisted applicants to participate in selection rounds, which will include aptitude tests and an interview.

What can I expect after I apply to STATA?

The application, selection and confirmation processes are summarized below:.

Tell me more about the Aptitude Test conducted by STATA

COMPASS aptitude tests are used in STATA’s cadet pilot selection process. A series of computer based tests are administered to measure and assess applicants’ level of competency in:

	+ Psychomotor skills
	+ Speed and accuracy (Maths questions)
	+ Orientation
	+ Memory
	+ Multi-tasking

 I had undergone Singapore Air Force and/or airline run selection tests. Can I be exempted to take this test in STATA?

Yes, STATA will give such applicants special consideration. The tests should have been taken within 1 year from the date of application to STATA. Documentary proof, i.e. result slips must be provided to STATA during application.
 

What are the regulatory procedures that I should take note of?
Aviation Reference Number

All Australian aviation professionals have an identifier that is unique to the individual. This is an identity number within the Australian aviation world and it is called an ARN (Aviation Reference Number).

STATA will guide you through the procedures to apply for your ARN.

Please refer to CASA website for more information ARN FAQ .
 

Class 1 Medical Certificate

There are three classes of medical that are used for various aviation professionals. For commercial pilots, the requirement is to be certified with a class 1 medical.

A class 1 medical examination includes an ECG, an audiogram, a blood lipids test, a specialist eye examination and a general medical assessment.

STATA will guide you on the procedures to undertake the CASA class 1 medical examination in your country of residence. The CASA class 1 certificate must be renewed annually and all related fees will be borne by the applicant/cadet pilot.

Please refer to CASA’s website Aviation medical for more details.

Language Proficiency Requirement for Pilots

If English is not your first language, you have take the International English Language Test (IELTS) and achieve a minimum overall score of 6.0.

In addition, from March 2008, all pilots applying for a pilot licence (excluding Student Pilot Licence) need to have an Aviation English proficiency of level 4 and above. As part of your pilot training, you will be assessed by an authorized testing personnel or organization.

 Please refer to CASA website on Language Proficiency Standards for more information.

Student Visa

You will need to apply and have a valid student visa throughout the duration of the IAPT programme in Australia. As part of the student visa application requirements, you will need to undergo a health checkup and X-ray at a DIAC recognized clinic.

STATA will guide you through the student visa application procedures upon offer acceptance. All visa related application fee, health checkup fee and expenses will be borne by you.

Please refer to your country of residence’s Australian Embassy, Consulate, High Commission or DIAC website www.immi.gov.au for more information.
 

Aviation Security Clearance

The Australian Government requires all pilots and trainee pilots to undergo background checks before they are allowed to handle an aeroplane in the air on their own. CASA, the aviation authority in Australia, requires proof of identification as part of the security clearance process. The process is combined with the application for your Student Pilot Licence, upon your arrival in Australia.

The appropriate form can be downloaded from the CASA Forms 497 & 498.

 3. Fees (For Year 2010 Enrollment Intakes)

What is included in the IAPT Programme Fees?
 

a.	Airport Pick-up and Orientation
b.	Overseas Student Health Cover
c.	Aircraft and Instructor Hire*
d.	All Pre-and Post-Flight Briefings*
e.	Flight Tests & Licence Application Fees*
f.	Landing & Parking Fees*
g.	Theory Lessons & Theory Examination Fees*
* Based on the IAPT programme syllabus, 1 attempt per test

What is included in the Student Services Fees?

STATA will provide its cadet pilots with accommodation and other student services to facilitate and enhance your flight training experience with us.
 

a.	Return Air Ticket (Singapore to Melbourne)
b.	Furnished Accommodation (twin-sharing basis per bedroom)
c.	Utilities (water and electricity) and basic Internet connection
d.	Personal Insurance
e.	Uniforms
f.	Land Transfers (between accommodation venue and Ballarat Aerodrome)
The above services will be detailed in a separate student services agreement which will be provided to you at the point of offer acceptance.

What are the key expenses that I have to bear separately, in addition to the IAPT (CASA) Programme Fees and Student Services Fees?

The below serves as a guide to additional personal expenditure that our students may incur, based on the IAPT (CASA) programme.

	Description	Estimated Cost (S$)
a.	Application Review and Processing	$214
b.	CASA Class 1 Medical Application and Examination Fee	$383
c.	Student Visa Application and Health Checkup Fee	$662
d.	Meals (A$7/meal x 3 per day)	$10,920
e.	Additional Training Costs and/or Examination Fees if re-attempt(s) are required.	To be charged at prevailing aircraft hire rate, instructing rate and/or examination fees.
f.	Extension of Student Services (accommodation, utilities, insurance, land transfers).	To be charged at prevailing rates.
ESTIMATED TOTAL $12,179

Does STATA provide financial sponsorship schemes to cadet pilots for the IAPT Programme?

No. STATA does not have such policies in place.

Should you require external financing for the IAPT programme, you can consider POSB’s Further Study Assist Loan. More information available at http://www.dbs.com/posb/loans/studyassist/

Alternatively, you can enquire with your preferred banks on their educational loan offerings.

 4. Flight Training Phases (IAPT CASA Programme)

What Can I Expect During the Pilot Training Programme?

Flight Instruction
The training comprises a few phases where you will be trained to each phase’s proficiency level. At the end of every phase, there will be a check flight where your skill for that level will be assessed. At the same time, theory lessons will be conducted to supplement your knowledge in aviation and those are also examined along the way.

There will be a mix of flying and ground school throughout each week while you are on course and you are also expected to do a fair amount of self study and preparation outside of formal lessons. Students within one course may progress at different pace during different phases, so you and your course mates will be an invaluable help to each other in your development in aviation.

The main flight checks are ‘First Solo’, ‘First Area Solo’, PPL, CPL and ‘Instrument Rating’ while the main theory examinations are BAK, PPL, CPL, IREX and ATPL

Flight Instruction

During the initial stages of flight instruction, you will always be accompanied by a flight instructor while in the air.
The basics of flying will be taught in and around the Ballarat Aerodrome and nearby training areas.

During this early phase, you will be taught how to handle an aeroplane to a proficiency level where you are able to fly on your own.
 

First Solo

Your first solo will involve doing a takeoff, fly around the circuit and land the aeroplane safely; All By Yourself!

This is the first step to being a pilot, and it will be an experience you shall cherish forever.

You will of course yearn to fly on your own again after this, but there is more training ahead. From this point on, you will be learning the skills to fly on your own outside the circuit area. And another few hours of training will suffice for you to do just that: Your first area solo!
 

First Area Solo

This is a landmark flight where student pilots earn the right to fly to the local training area without an instructor.

To be able to do this, you have to prove to your instructor that you are a capable pilot. All your training up to this point will prepare you for being in command of an aeroplane and you are expected to execute the flight according to plan.

Come talk to us to find out more.