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 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.
Latest Selections

AFCAT AIR 03

AFCAT AIR 10

AFCAT AIR 119

ACC 133 Entry AIR 65

ACC 133 Entry AIR 76

SCO 58 Entry AIR 8

SCO 58 Entry AIR 47

TGC 143 AIR 03

TGC 143 AIR 5

TGC 143 AIR 12