Computerised Pilot Selection System

The Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) is an advanced screening tool designed to assess the psychomotor skills and cognitive abilities of aspiring pilots across the Indian Air Force (IAF), Army, Navy, and Coast Guard. Developed together by the Defence Institute of Psychological Research and the Air Defence Establishment—both premier organizations under DRDO—CPSS replaces the older Pilot Aptitude Battery Test (PABT), a British-era selection procedure.

Engineered to address the changing needs of contemporary aircraft, CPSS ensures a scientific, data-based analysis of applicants, ensuring selection standards are in line with other top international air forces. Tested by flying branch officers from the Flying Branch, this state-of-the-art system allows for intensive and accurate examination of aspiring pilots, enhancing Indian defense capabilities.

CPSS: AN ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME TEST

The Computerised Pilot Selection System, is a one-time opportunity for aspiring pilots. Candidates get only one attempt to clear the CPSS test.

  • If a candidate is not able to pass the CPSS test, they will not be eligible to apply for any flying branch in the Air Force, Army, Navy, or Coast Guard in the future.
  • If a candidate passes CPSS but does not make it to the final merit list, they will still be considered CPSS-qualified for future attempts at selection.

This strict selection process ensures that only the most competent and skilled candidates move forward in their journey to becoming military pilots.

CPSS TESTING

CPSS has 2 levels of testing:

  1. COGNITIVE ABILITY TEST
  1. PSYCHOMOTOR TEST

1. Cognitive Ability Test in CPSS

  • 6 test are there
  • Total Questions: 212 (MCQ Based)
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

S. No

Test Name

Questions

Time

About

1

INSB 1

15

10 Mins

Recognizing Scales and meters

·Magnetic Compass

· Airspeed Indicator

· Altimeter

· Altitude Indicator

· Vertical Speed Indicator

·Turn Coordinator

2

INSB 2

60

20 Mins

Determining position of airplane from instruments

3

Spatial Ability Test

30

15 Mins

Perceiving 2D, 3D Figures in Space

4

Spatial Visualization Test

57

5 Mins

Perceiving position of object in space

5

Numerical Reasoning Test

20

20 Mins

Numerical Skills

6

Reasoning Test

30

15 Mins

Verbal and Non Verbal reasoning

2. Psychomotor Test in CPSS

  • 10 tests are there
  • 4 tests for each test are given (best attempt is continued )
  • Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

S. No

Test name

Time

1

Sensory Motor Test

1 Hours 30 Minutes

2

Control Velocity Test

3

Dual Task Test

4

Dot Estimation Test

5

Speed Anticipation Test

6

Size Anticipation Test

7

Pursuit Tracking Test

8

Memory Recalling Test

9

Colour Naming Test

10

Vigilanze test

CPSS Test: Clear Guidelines & Focus on SSB Preparation

The CPSS test is designed to be straightforward, with detailed instructions provided before the test begins. This ensures clarity and eliminates any confusion for candidates.

  • No need to worry – Everything is explained before the test
  • Main Challenge: SSB Interview – While CPSS is important, the SSB interview requires extensive preparation and is the key hurdle in the selection process.

Aspirants should prioritize SSB preparation, as it plays a crucial role in securing their place in the Indian Air Force.

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