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Application review
Qantas Group Pilot Academy selection: stages, tests and how to prepare
The Qantas Group Pilot Academy is an ab initio flight school at Wellcamp Airport, Toowoomba, run with Flight Training Adelaide (FTA) for students with little or no flying experience. Selection runs from an online form and about 10 hours of computer-based training to online psychometric and skills assessments, a core skills test where it applies and an onsite interview, with a CASA Class 1 medical needed before the course starts. There are no funded cadetships; the Academy offers payment options and scholarships, and graduates are invited to a Qantas Group Accelerate Assessment Centre. Applications are open for courses starting from 22 March 2027. All facts checked 25 October 2026.12
- Programme type
- The Qantas Group Pilot Academy is an ab initio training school designed for students with little to no flying experience. It is not a funded cadetship program.1
- Training provider
- Flight Training Adelaide Pty Ltd (FTA) is the training provider for the Academy site in Toowoomba. FTA provides customised pilot training solutions for the Australian aviation industry.1
- Location
- The Academy is based in Toowoomba, Queensland, at Wellcamp Airport; the region offers over 300 days of sunshine each year.1
- Licence outcome
- Graduates qualify for a Commercial Pilots Licence (CPL), Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (ME IR), Airline Transport Pilots Licence (ATPL) theory, and Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC). A Private Pilot License (PPL) is not included in the training program.2
- Course duration
- The full training course duration is 55 weeks. The course may be extended if weather conditions affect flying hours during this time.1
- Funding model
- There are no funded cadetships available with Qantas Group airlines. The Academy offers access to payment options and a range of scholarships.1
- Employment pathway
- Successful graduates are invited to attend a Qantas Group Accelerate Assessment Centre. If successful there, they may be eligible for employment as a pilot with QantasLink, Jetstar or Network Aviation Australia.1
- Age requirement
- You must be 18 years of age to commence the course. Application for pre-selection is accepted from ages 17 and above.1
- Citizenship for employment
- Australian Citizenship or Permanent Residency is mandatory for consideration in Qantas Group graduate assessment processes and potential employment pathways upon graduation. International applicants can complete training but are not eligible for these employment opportunities.1
- Visa requirement
- International applicants must hold the appropriate visa and legal right to study in Australia. They are not eligible for the Australian Government's Higher Education Loan Program (HELP).1
- Education requirement
- Applicants need a Senior secondary (Year 12) Certificate, Certificate IV or higher, similar overseas qualification, or exit level 3+ in Australian Core Skills Framework reading and numeracy. Year 12 students may apply for pre-selection pending meeting criteria.1
- Experience limits
- The course is designed for those with little or no previous flying experience. Applicants with more than 70 hours of non-integrated training or 30 hours of integrated training on a powered fixed-wing aircraft will be individually assessed.1
- Medical requirement
- You do not require a CASA medical certificate during the selection process. However, you must obtain a CASA Class 1 medical certificate before the course start date.1
- Selection step: Review
- All applications are reviewed by FTA for suitability. Selected applicants are then asked to complete further assessments.1
- Selection step: Online Assessments
- Selected applicants complete approximately 10 hours of mandatory computer-based training and an online assessment on abbreviated aviation theory, and aviation specific online psychometric and skills assessments.1
- Selection step: Interview
- An interview is conducted by FTA’s COO, QGPA or Director of Operations and Training onsite at the Academy in Toowoomba. The interview covers test results, understanding of course requirements, and motivation.1
- Selection cost
- There is a $200 fee payable on the day of testing. Transport, accommodation, and associated costs for travelling to interview sites are at your own expense.1
- Reapplication rule
- Candidates are welcome to re-apply for future courses as they become available. Applications are reviewed after the published closing date, and both successful and unsuccessful applicants are contacted.1
- Accommodation cost
- The approximate cost of accommodation is $490 per week as published by Qantas on 25 October 2026, including three meals a day plus snacks for students residing on campus.1
- Scholarship coverage
- The Qantas Group Pilot Scholarship covers the cost of on-site accommodation and meals at the Academy. Support is provided for the course duration of 55 weeks.1
- Scholarship eligibility
- Scholarships are open to First Nations Peoples and females with Australian Citizenship. These scholarships aim to remove barriers to entry and enhance diversity in the pilot population.1
- Scholarship repayment
- If you leave the Academy prior to successful completion, you are not required to pay back the portion of the scholarship used.1
- Training contract
- You sign a contract with the training provider, Flight Training Adelaide (FTA). You do not sign a training contract directly with Qantas.1
- Aircraft types
- Single engine training is completed in the Diamond DA40 aircraft. Multi-engine training utilizes the DA42 aircraft, supported by flight training devices.1
- Equipment provided
- All training materials are provided by the Academy. A loan iPad is issued with electronic learning material, specific applications, and operational procedures.1
- Campus living benefits
- Residing on campus is not compulsory but allows immersion in the training environment. Facilities include free WiFi, linen, towels, weekly cleaning, sporting facilities, welfare services, and security.1
- Leave policy
- The program does not allow for long periods of leave. FTA will work with you to minimise impact on training schedule if you need to go home for personal or medical reasons.1
- Intakes open now
- Applications are open for courses QG63 (closing 15 November 2026, start 22 March 2027), QG64 (closing 20 December 2026, start 26 April 2027), QG65 (closing 17 January 2027, start 24 May 2027), QG66 (closing 21 February 2027, start 28 June 2027) and QG67 (closing 28 March 2027, start 2 August 2027).2
- Application form
- You apply with the online form, submitting your education history, flying experience, health status and availability to commence training; you pick a preferred commencement date before completing the form.2
- Fee schedule
- Course fees are published by Flight Training Adelaide in a downloadable schedule of fees for the Wellcamp courses; the Academy page also links payment options and tuition assurance.2
Interview
The Academy interview covers your test results, your understanding of the course requirements and your motivation for becoming a pilot. The course has strong elements of maths and science, and the Academy describes a thorough understanding of both at Year 12 level as desirable.
Prepare by writing down what you know about the 55-week course, where you will train in Toowoomba and what the licences and ratings are, so that your understanding of the course requirements is concrete. Then prepare two or three real examples of commitment, such as sustained study, sport or work, that show why you will see the course through.
Finish with a short, honest answer to why you want to fly. The Academy is an ab initio school for students with little or no flying experience.1
What you can practise here
Start with the paperwork: your Year 12 certificate or equivalent, your flying history (more than 70 hours of non-integrated or 30 hours of integrated training means individual assessment) and the date you want to start.
Then set aside the ten hours for the computer-based training and revise Year 12 maths and science, so that the theory assessment and the aptitude tests feel familiar.
Finally plan the Toowoomba interview: travel and accommodation are at your own expense, and the testing process carries a $200 fee payable on the day. Rehearse a short account of your test results, the course and your motivation.
The practice plan for this selection includes Interview preparation. A Pass unlocks the practice modes in that plan and runs for a week, a month, three months or a year, with no subscription and no automatic renewal.
Questions candidates ask
Is the Qantas Group Pilot Academy a funded cadetship?
No, there are no funded cadetships available with Qantas Group airlines. Graduates may be invited to a Qantas Group Accelerate Assessment Centre if they complete all requirements.
What are the minimum academic qualifications to apply?
You need a Senior secondary (Year 12) Certificate of Education, a Certificate IV or higher, or a similar overseas qualification. A thorough understanding of maths and science at Year 12 level is desirable. You can also qualify via exit level 3 or above in reading and numeracy organised by FTA.
How does the selection process work?
FTA reviews applications for suitability first. Selected applicants complete mandatory computer-based training and an online assessment on abbreviated aviation theory. This is followed by aviation specific online Psychometric and Skills Assessments, a core skills test if applicable, and an onsite interview in Toowoomba.
Are there any fees for the testing process?
Yes, there is a $200 fee payable on the day of the assessment. Transport, accommodation, and associated costs for travelling to Toowoomba, Adelaide, or other advertised sites are at your own expense. These travel costs are not included in the overall course cost.
Do I need a medical certificate to apply?
You do not require a CASA medical certificate during the selection process. However, you must obtain a CASA Class 1 medical certificate before the course start date.
What is the age requirement for applicants?
You must be 18 years of age to commence the course. Applications for pre-selection are accepted from ages 17 and above. Attendance for assessment under the age of 18 requires parental consent.
Can I apply if I already have flying experience?
The course is designed for applicants with little or no previous flying experience. If you have more than 70 hours of non-integrated training or 30 hours of integrated training on a powered fixed-wing aircraft, you will be individually assessed for suitability.
How long is the training course?
The full training course duration is 55 weeks. The course could be extended if weather conditions affect flying hours during this time. There are no long periods of leave allowed during the program.
Can international students apply?
Yes, you do not need to be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident to enrol and complete training. However, Australian Citizenship or Permanent Residency is mandatory for eligibility in Qantas Group graduate assessment processes and employment pathways. International applicants cannot access HELP loans and must arrange alternative funding.
What happens after graduation regarding jobs?
Graduating does not mean automatic employment at Qantas. Successful graduates who meet all requirements are invited to attend a Qantas Group Accelerate Assessment Centre. If successful there, you may be eligible for employment as a pilot with QantasLink, Jetstar, or Network Aviation Australia.1
About Qantas Group Pilot Academy
Qantas Group Pilot Academy is a pilot training programme based in Australia. It belongs to Qantas.
Partner for the programme: Flight Training Adelaide (FTA). On 11 October 2026 the programme was listed as accepting applications. This page sets out the selection in 7 stages.
The seven phases
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Computer-based training and online theory assessmentPractise this phase
3/7
Online psychometric and skills assessments
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Core skills test
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InterviewPractise this phase
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Medical
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Accelerate Assessment Centre (after graduation)
Qantas Group Pilot Academy at a glance
Part of Qantas- Country
- Australia
- Cadet programme
- Qantas Group Pilot Academy (open as of 11 Oct 2026)87
What does Qantas Group Pilot Academy ask of pilots?
- Age requirement
- You must be 18 years of age to commence the course. Application for pre-selection is accepted from ages 17 and above.1
- Citizenship for employment
- Australian Citizenship or Permanent Residency is mandatory for consideration in Qantas Group graduate assessment processes and potential employment pathways upon graduation. International applicants can complete training but are not eligible for these employment opportunities.1
- Visa requirement
- International applicants must hold the appropriate visa and legal right to study in Australia. They are not eligible for the Australian Government's Higher Education Loan Program (HELP).1
- Education requirement
- Applicants need a Senior secondary (Year 12) Certificate, Certificate IV or higher, similar overseas qualification, or exit level 3+ in Australian Core Skills Framework reading and numeracy. Year 12 students may apply for pre-selection pending meeting criteria.1
- Experience limits
- The course is designed for those with little or no previous flying experience. Applicants with more than 70 hours of non-integrated training or 30 hours of integrated training on a powered fixed-wing aircraft will be individually assessed.1
- Medical requirement
- You do not require a CASA medical certificate during the selection process. However, you must obtain a CASA Class 1 medical certificate before the course start date.1
Interview
The Academy interview covers your test results, your understanding of the course requirements and your motivation for becoming a pilot. The course has strong elements of maths and science, and the Academy describes a thorough understanding of both at Year 12 level as desirable.
Prepare by writing down what you know about the 55-week course, where you will train in Toowoomba and what the licences and ratings are, so that your understanding of the course requirements is concrete. Then prepare two or three real examples of commitment, such as sustained study, sport or work, that show why you will see the course through.
Finish with a short, honest answer to why you want to fly. The Academy is an ab initio school for students with little or no flying experience.1
What you can practise here
Start with the paperwork: your Year 12 certificate or equivalent, your flying history (more than 70 hours of non-integrated or 30 hours of integrated training means individual assessment) and the date you want to start.
Then set aside the ten hours for the computer-based training and revise Year 12 maths and science, so that the theory assessment and the aptitude tests feel familiar.
Finally plan the Toowoomba interview: travel and accommodation are at your own expense, and the testing process carries a $200 fee payable on the day. Rehearse a short account of your test results, the course and your motivation.
The practice plan for this selection includes Interview preparation. A Pass unlocks the practice modes in that plan and runs for a week, a month, three months or a year, with no subscription and no automatic renewal.
Questions candidates ask
Is the Qantas Group Pilot Academy a funded cadetship?
No, there are no funded cadetships available with Qantas Group airlines. Graduates may be invited to a Qantas Group Accelerate Assessment Centre if they complete all requirements.
What are the minimum academic qualifications to apply?
You need a Senior secondary (Year 12) Certificate of Education, a Certificate IV or higher, or a similar overseas qualification. A thorough understanding of maths and science at Year 12 level is desirable. You can also qualify via exit level 3 or above in reading and numeracy organised by FTA.
How does the selection process work?
FTA reviews applications for suitability first. Selected applicants complete mandatory computer-based training and an online assessment on abbreviated aviation theory. This is followed by aviation specific online Psychometric and Skills Assessments, a core skills test if applicable, and an onsite interview in Toowoomba.
Are there any fees for the testing process?
Yes, there is a $200 fee payable on the day of the assessment. Transport, accommodation, and associated costs for travelling to Toowoomba, Adelaide, or other advertised sites are at your own expense. These travel costs are not included in the overall course cost.
Do I need a medical certificate to apply?
You do not require a CASA medical certificate during the selection process. However, you must obtain a CASA Class 1 medical certificate before the course start date.
What is the age requirement for applicants?
You must be 18 years of age to commence the course. Applications for pre-selection are accepted from ages 17 and above. Attendance for assessment under the age of 18 requires parental consent.
Can I apply if I already have flying experience?
The course is designed for applicants with little or no previous flying experience. If you have more than 70 hours of non-integrated training or 30 hours of integrated training on a powered fixed-wing aircraft, you will be individually assessed for suitability.
How long is the training course?
The full training course duration is 55 weeks. The course could be extended if weather conditions affect flying hours during this time. There are no long periods of leave allowed during the program.
Can international students apply?
Yes, you do not need to be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident to enrol and complete training. However, Australian Citizenship or Permanent Residency is mandatory for eligibility in Qantas Group graduate assessment processes and employment pathways. International applicants cannot access HELP loans and must arrange alternative funding.
What happens after graduation regarding jobs?
Graduating does not mean automatic employment at Qantas. Successful graduates who meet all requirements are invited to attend a Qantas Group Accelerate Assessment Centre. If successful there, you may be eligible for employment as a pilot with QantasLink, Jetstar, or Network Aviation Australia.1
- 1Frequently asked questions, Qantas Group Pilot Academy, Qantas
- 2Qantas Group Pilot Academy, Qantas
- 3Schedule of Fees, Flight Training Adelaide
- 4Wikipedia: Qantas · accessed 11 Oct 2026
- 5Fly with the Spirit of Australia | Qantas AU · accessed 11 Oct 2026
- 6Pilot Careers & Job Opportunities | Qantas Careers · accessed 11 Oct 2026
- 7Qantas Group Pilot Academy | Frequently asked questions | Qantas AU · accessed 11 Oct 2026
- 8Qantas Group Pilot Academy | Qantas AU · accessed 11 Oct 2026
