CURRENTLY RECRUITING
Aircraft Analysis & maths Gaming & computers
INITIAL ANNUAL PAY DURING OFFICER TRAINING
£35,900+
+ Benefits
PAY AFTER 3 YEARS SERVICE AND PROMOTION TO THE RANK OF FLT LT
£64,600+
+ Benefits
Royal Air Force Pilots provide air power on behalf of the country, operating state-of-the-art aircraft world-wide.
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Requirements & eligibility
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Meet Nathan
Listen to Nathan, the new Typhoon Display Pilot, talk about flying training and the opportunities he has had throughout sixteen years in the RAF.
What will you do?
This is a diverse and exciting role helping protect the skies and space as well as supporting operations and protecting the interests and influence of the UK and our allies. You’ll be streamed to fast-jet, multi-engine, rotary-wing (helicopter) or Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) depending on operational requirements and your flying ability. You are then likely to specialise in this type of aircraft throughout your career. Across these different specialisms you could be:
Conducting air-to-air combat
Taking part in ground attack missions
Be involved in intelligence and surveillance
Providing military support
Delivering equipment and supplies
Controlling aircraft from ground control stations
Mission planning and ground-based staff duties
Requirements at a glance
Apply from 17-and-a-half years old. The maximum age on entry to Direct Entry Pilot is age 23, Phase One training at RAF Cranwell must be started before your 24th birthday meaning candidates are to submit an application before their 23rd birthday.
GCSEs at Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 at Grade C in English Language, Maths/Application of Mathematics (Functional Skills Level 2 will be accepted) and at least three other subjects.
A minimum of 64 UCAS points made up from a maximum of 3 qualifications, minimum of 27 UCAS points for at least one qualification. If you hold a UK degree at Grade 2:2 you only need Mathematics and English Language GCSEs (or acceptable alternatives) at Grade 4 or Scottish National 5 Grade C in Mathematics and English Language.
You will need to meet specific Nationality and Residency criteria.
Commit to minimum 12 years service
Meet the health and fitness criteria, pass a fitness test and undertake a swimming test in training
View all entry requirements below
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
The maximum age on entry to Direct Entry Pilot is age 23, Phase One training at RAF Cranwell must be started before your 24th birthday. Candidates are to submit an application before their 23rd birthday. Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
You will need GCSEs at Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 at Grade C in English Language, Maths/Application of Mathematics (Functional Skills Level 2 will be accepted) and at least three other subjects.
In addition a minimum of 64 UCAS points which can be accrued from A/AS Levels (or equivalent), T-Levels, or National Diplomas (e.g BTECs/NVQs). This must be made up from a maximum of 3 qualifications, minimum of 27 UCAS points for at least one qualification (excluding General Studies, Critical Thinking and Citizenship Studies).
If you hold a UK degree at Grade 2:2 or higher you only need Mathematics and English Language GCSEs (or acceptable alternatives) at a minimum of Grade 4 or Scottish National 5 Grade C in Mathematics and English Language.
If your qualifications are not listed, or you do not have any qualifications, please Contact Us to learn more about how you can join the Royal Air Force.
NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY
NATIONALITY
You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/other nationality.
RESIDENCY
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 10 years immediately preceding your application, but candidates with a minimum of 7 years may be considered.
If you have resided abroad for a period due to work or study, you may still be eligible on a case by case basis. This will be established during the selection process.
The Nationality and Residency requirements are the foundation of obtaining the necessary security clearance. The nationalities of your spouse or partner, and parents, are also taken into account among other factors.
There will be further pre-employment checks and you will be expected to achieve the security clearance of Developed Vetting (DV).
Employment restrictions may be imposed in the future if you are unable to achieve an increased security clearance requirement for selected placements.
Security Vetting and Nationality Considerations
RAF security policies are subject to ongoing review, which may impact the eligibility of individuals with dual nationality or direct connections to certain countries to obtain the minimum required level of security vetting. Security vetting is a mandatory requirement for all RAF personnel.
Applicants are welcome to proceed with their application to join the RAF; however, it is important to understand that permanent employment is contingent upon successfully obtaining the appropriate level of security vetting for the chosen role.
If it is determined that an applicant’s nationality or connections may prevent the granting of the required clearance, this could result in the rejection of the application. Additionally, restrictions may apply to the roles available to individuals based on nationality or dual nationality concerns, as outlined by UK government policy.
FITNESS REQUIREMENTS
You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively. Every candidate's fitness levels are tested as part of the application process.
The first of these is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) which takes place at a fitness centre local to you. This consists of a 2.4km (1.5m) run on a treadmill (set to zero incline)
How fit you need to be to pass this test varies on age and gender. The PJFT requirements are listed on the charts below (Male and Female).
MEN
AGE
2.4 Km Run
(Mins)
15-16
13.52
17-29
13.20
30-34
13.49
35-39
14.14
40-44
14.46
45-49
15.17
50-54
15.53
WOMEN
AGE
2.4 Km Run
(Mins)
15-16
16.22
17-29
15.48
30-34
16.14
35-39
16.44
40-44
17.22
45-49
17.57
50-54
18.34
See here for more information about a training plan
A second fitness test will take place at RAF Cranwell as part of your familiarisation visit. This includes the Multi-Stage Fitness Test (MSFT or Bleep test). Standards to achieve will be given during the visit.
RAF SWIMMING TEST
To train as aircrew in the RAF, you must be able to pass the RAF Swimming Test as follows: Swim 100 metres without rest, using any front or sidestroke. Tread water for 2 minutes. Get out of the deep end of the pool unassisted, without the use of steps or the bottom of the pool.
All personnel attempting the test must wear clothing commensurate with that worn for their normal operating activity, which for aircrew is a flying suit.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Candidates joining the RAF must be medically fully fit, both physically and psychologically, to meet the challenges of military service, during which they will be expected to deploy, potentially at short notice, to locations world-wide that are remote from established medical care.
Certain medical conditions could preclude entry to the RAF. Further details can be found in this document.
Body Mass Index (BMI) Information
Why is BMI important?
One of the most common medical causes of delay to candidate’s applications, is falling outside the selection BMI limits. Candidates with a BMI outside the selection limitations are statistically at increased risk of injury during basic training and long-term ill health.
What is BMI?
BMI is calculated using your height and weight. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) classify a healthy BMI as being between 18.5 and 24.9. Some individuals have an elevated BMI due to a high muscle mass. To accommodate individuals with an elevated BMI (up to a maximum of 32) caused by high muscle mass, waist circumference measurements are used.
How to measure your waist circumference
Breathe normally and the waist measurement is to be taken at the end of a normal breath out. Position the tape measure midway between the bottom of the ribcage and the top of the pelvis. The tape should be snug but not compress the skin. If there is difficulty finding the bony landmarks, place the tape at the level of the tummy button.
Calculating your BMI
Calculate your BMI here
BMI Limitations for RAF Selection
Age
BMI minimum
BMI maximum
Male maximum BMI (with additional assessment)
Female maximum BMI (with additional assessment)
18 or over
18
30
32 (waist circumference less than 94cm)
32 (waist circumference less than 80cm)
16 to 17
17
27
27
27
Eyesight
Eyesight standards vary for different roles. Wearing glasses or contact lenses may be allowed, including for aircrew roles.
Health Criteria
If you are unsure about any health criteria, please continue your application and your eligibility will be assessed at the medical examination stage.
During your application, the Medical Risk Assessment that all candidates undergo is there to make sure that you are healthy enough for the intense training required by the RAF. Your application will be rejected if you fail to meet the minimum acceptable medical standard for entry. Your medical history is confidential and is not disclosed to those not authorised to hold this information.
BACKGROUND CHECKS
YOU MUST
Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions
Check if you qualify under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 through this summary
Achieve the minimum Security Clearance of Developed Vetting (DV) for this role
DISQUALIFYING FACTORS
YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:
Have been or are member of a group that stirs up racial hatred and violence
Are waiting to appear in court, or have unspent convictions. You may also have to declare spent convictions for certain roles
Misuse drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. But each case is considered upon its own merits
Have tattoos, brands or bead implants that are obscene or offensive.
Any permanent or temporary tattoos, whether ordinarily visible or not, must not be obscene or offensive (eg, racist, anti-religion or belief, crude, overtly sexist, homophobic, drug related or of an extreme political nature). Tattoos may be worn on the side and back of the neck but tattoos on the back of the neck must not extend above the natural hairline (scalp tattoos are not permitted).
Have body piercing which causes holes that do not close up
Declare yourself to be an 'undischarged' bankrupt
Beard Policy:
Serving personnel can wear a smart, neatly-trimmed, full-set beard. The length of acceptable beards is between Grade 1 (2.5mm) and Grade 8 (25.5mm).
Usually, candidates are to be clean shaven when being fitted for their respirators in Phase One training, however other methods of creating a clean seal can be advised if this is not possible due to religious reasons.
If you don’t have any of the above, you might still be able to apply. For more information please contact us.
ROLE STREAMING
Pilot is part of the Aircrew Profession, and this role is split into 4 main streams. After Elementary Flying Training you will be streamed into one of the following for specialist training tailored to type of aircraft. This will depend upon aptitude, qualifications, career aspirations and the Service need.
Fast-jet
As a Fast-jet pilot you will be responsible for flying in a front-line combat air role. You will initially fly the Texan, after which you will be awarded your Pilot 'Wings', before progressing to the Hawk T2.
After successful completion of the tactical weapons phase, you will go to train on the specific aircraft that you will be flying in a front-line role (e.g. Typhoon)
Multi-engine
As a multi-engine pilot you will fly the Phenom at RAFC Cranwell before going on to train on the aircraft that you will be flying operationally (e.g. C17) upon receiving your Pilot ‘wings’
Rotary-wing
If you are streamed to rotary, you will start by flying twin-engine helicopters at RAF Shawbury, the Juno and Jupiter. After being successfully awarded your Pilot ‘wings’, you will then go to train on the helicopter that you will be flying operationally (e g. Chinook)
Remotely Piloted Aircraft System
If you are streamed to Pilot (ISR) RPAS, you will learn to fly the Protector. After successfully completing your Operational Conversion Unit you will be awarded your Pilot Flying Badge or 'Wings', before progressing to your front line unit.
CAREER, TRAINING & EDUCATION
At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas.
01
Phase one training
Initial Officer training
24 weeks
RAF Cranwell
Your training will commence on the Modular Initial Officer Training Course (MIOTC) where you will graduate outside the College Hall Officers’ Mess at RAF College Cranwell.
Read more
24 weeks
RAF Cranwell
Phase one training
You will be trained and assessed over 4 six-week terms that will develop your fitness, leadership and academic skills over several indoor and outdoor exercises across the UK. The course is designed to bring out your natural talents for command, leadership and management that you will use for the rest of your life. You will make friends that will also last a lifetime.
You can find out more about what to expect in this booklet . This will allow you to prepare for MIOTC as well as the OASC assessment, which is also covered in this YouTube video .
02
Phase two training
Specialist training
27 weeks
As assigned
Your specialist training begins with Elementary Flying Training where you’ll fly the Tutor or Prefect aircraft.
Read more
27 weeks
As assigned
Phase two training
Crewed-aircraft Pilots will then be streamed to fast jet, multi-engine or rotary (helicopter) flying training, whilst Pilot (ISR) RPAS progress to the Protector RG1.
03
Phase two training
Fast-jet training
2 years
RAF Valley
If you are streamed to Fast-jet, training lasts about 2 years and you will initially fly the Texan at RAF Valley.
Read more
2 years
RAF Valley
Phase two training
After that you will be awarded your Pilot flying badge – known as ‘wings’. You will then go on to fly the Hawk T2 at RAF Valley and, after successful completion of the tactical weapons phase, you will go to an Operational Conversion Unit (OCU), where you will train on the specific aircraft that you will be flying in a front-line role (e.g. Typhoon).
04
Phase two training
Multi-engine training
10 months
RAF Cranwell
If you are streamed to multi-engine aircraft, the training is 10 months long, during which you will fly the Phenom at RAFC Cranwell.
Read more
10 months
RAF Cranwell
Phase two training
You will then be awarded your Pilot ‘wings’ and go to an OCU to train on the aircraft that you will be flying operationally (e.g. C17).
05
Phase two training
Rotary wing training
18 months
RAF Shawbury
If you are streamed to rotary-wing, you will spend 18 months flying twin-engine helicopters at RAF Shawbury, the Juno and Jupiter.
Read more
18 months
RAF Shawbury
Phase two training
After your training, you will be awarded your Pilot ‘wings’. You will then go to an OCU where you will train on the helicopter that you will be flying operationally (e g. Chinook).
06
Phase two training
Pilot (ISR) RPAS training
9 months
RAF Waddington
If you are streamed RPAS you will spend 9 months flying Protector with 54 Sqn at RAF Waddington prior to posting to a frontline Squadron.
Read more
9 months
RAF Waddington
Phase two training
If you are streamed RPAS you will spend 9 months flying Protector with 54 Sqn at RAF Waddington, on an Operational Conversion Course, prior to posting to a frontline Sqn.
07
First tour
Specialist training
Ongoing
As assigned
During your first tour, you are likely to serve overseas on detachment or an exercise.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
First tour
You could fly on a training exercise in allied airspace.
08
Your career prospects
Specialist training
Ongoing
As assigned
You will join the RAF on an Initial Commission of 12 years.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Your career prospects
You will be selected to serve on a commission of 20 years’ service or to age 40, whichever is the later, when you are awarded 'Combat Ready' status. However, at any time during that commission, following the completion of your 6 years initial return of Service, you are free to leave on giving 12 months notice.
Promotion to the rank of Flight Lieutenant is on a time served/satisfactory service basis 2½ years after completing IOT. Further promotion to Squadron Leader and above is by competitive selection.
09
In-Service Degree
Development
Ongoing
As assigned
As a Pilot, you will have opportunities for further professional development throughout your career.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
In-Service Degree
As well as training to fly different aircraft, there are opportunities for structured command and staff training as your career progresses.
An In-Service degree for RAF Pilots on completion of their flying training is currently being implemented and details and can be found via this publication .
10
Transferable skills
Development
Ongoing
As assigned
The skills and experience you gain throughout your career as a Pilot in the RAF are valuable.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Transferable skills
They can equip you for a number of civilian jobs upon completion of service, including: Commercial Pilot; Flying Instructor and various aviation management posts.
Alternatively, as a RPAS pilot in the RAF will equip you for a number of civilian jobs upon completion of service, including: civilian UAV pilot operator and instructor, systems specialist; simulator coordinator and management posts.
WHY JOIN AS AN OFFICER?
When you become an RAF Officer, your responsibilities start from day one. You’ll be tasked with leading a team, building a sense of camaraderie, and making quick decisions. Become tomorrow’s leader. Start today.
Discover more
What's it like being a pilot in the RAF
Flight Lieutenant Chris Gordon explains how he joined the RAF and what his job involves as a Chinook pilot
WHY JOIN THE RAF?
Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.
Rent from £75p/m
Free gym
Subsidised food
Health care
World travel
Training
View all benefits
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING
Joining the RAF takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are.
1
Aptitude test
2
CBAT Aptitude test
3
Suitability Assessment
4
Health Assessment
5
Fitness test
6
OASC
7
Familiarisation visit
8
Offer of service
1
Aptitude test
Stage 1 of 8
The aptitude test has been designed to ensure you're a good fit for the role you're applying for. You'll answer six multiple choice sections which each focus on a different skill:
Verbal reasoning - use and interpretation of written information
Numerical Reasoning - ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae
Work rate - speed and accuracy of tasks
Spatial reasoning - how shapes and objects work
Electrical comprehension - working with electrical concepts
Mechanical comprehension - grasp of mechanical concepts
You can try the online practice test here
2
CBAT Aptitude test
Stage 2 of 8
An early step in the application process is a series of Computer Based Aptitude Tests (CBAT). These tests ensure we match the right candidate to the right role. They take place over one day at the Officers and Aircrew Selection Centre at the RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire, and measure your ability to perform specific tasks such as:
How well you respond physically to visual information
Your ability to interpret information in two dimensions and devise a three-dimensional solution
Your ability to complete several tasks simultaneously
Your natural abilities, including deductive reasoning, spatial reasoning, work rate and concentration, and verbal and numerical reasoning
3
Suitability Assessment
Stage 3 of 8
This session is designed to assess your motivation and readiness to attend the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre (OASC).
It has two parts and lasts 15 minutes in total. It may be conducted in person or online and you will be interviewed by a Flight Lieutenant or a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer.
Part One is about you and you may be asked about your achievements, spare time activities, responsibilities and examples of leadership and commitment.
Part Two assesses your Motivation and Service Knowledge. You should be prepared to talk about the role you are applying for, the training that you will be expected to do, the role of the RAF, where we are based and length of service/Reserve commitment.
4
Health Assessment
Stage 4 of 8
You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index.
We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. View details below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.
5
Fitness test
Stage 5 of 8
A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFC). This will take place at a local gym near to you, and is a 2.4km run.
The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation here .
6
OASC
Stage 6 of 8
This will be your second visit to the Officers and Aircrew Selection Centre. OASC lasts one day, but you will arrive the day before. During this time the officers will be assessing your leadership, teamwork, communication, motivation, and problem solving.
The day will end with an interview. The first half of the interview covers your achievements at school and college, in sports, your community, at work, and as a cadet, scout or guide.
The second half explores your motivation for joining the RAF – what you know about current affairs and the RAF’s role in the national and international arena, current operations the RAF is involved in and your knowledge about the RAF and the role you've applied for.
You can watch a video here that explains the OASC selection process in more detail.
7
Familiarisation visit
Stage 7 of 8
This takes place over 2 days and is designed to give you an insight into officer training. You’ll be issued with your initial kit, including your boots, attend lectures, and also repeat the fitness test taken at OASC.
8
Offer of service
Stage 8 of 8
Once you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process you’ll be invited to a provisional offer of service interview at your nearest AFCO.
This is to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training.
APPLY NOW
Got what it takes? Start your application here.
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