DLR How do I prepare for a pilot aptitude test?
Train the core skills almost every pilot aptitude test checks for 6 to 8 weeks, 20 to 45 minutes a day: mental arithmetic, spatial reasoning, memory, concentration, technical knowledge, physics and English. In the last two weeks, practise the exact format of your test with the official materials.
The best preparation for a pilot aptitude test has two phases. First you spend several weeks training the core skills that almost every procedure measures, whether it is the DLR test, SPHAIR, COMPASS, PILAPT, ADAPT or military pilot selection. Shortly before your date you practise the exact format of your test: controls, time limits and instructions. Short and regular beats long and rare.
Which skills should you train?
| Skill | How to practise | Module in DLR Test Trainer |
|---|---|---|
| Mental arithmetic | short daily sets, times tables to 20, percentages and units | KRN |
| Spatial reasoning | fold cube nets, follow paths and rotations in your head | PPT, WFG |
| Memory | digit sequences backwards, n-back with symbols | RMS, VMC |
| Concentration under time pressure | apply rules quickly, read gauges at a glance | SKT, OWT |
| Technical knowledge and physics | revise mechanics, electricity and optics at school level | TVT, PHY |
| English | grammar and vocabulary at B2 level | ENS |
Joystick psychomotor tasks and personality questionnaires cannot be trained with an app. A simple flight simulator on a PC helps with the joystick; for the personality part, answer honestly and consistently.
What does a plan look like?
- Week 1: find out where you stand. A short placement test shows your strengths and focus, for example the free 5-minute placement test in DLR Test Trainer.
- Weeks 2 to 6: 20 to 45 minutes a day, focusing on your weak areas, and closing gaps in physics, technical knowledge and English with school books.
- Weeks 7 to 8: full dress rehearsals to train stamina and order, plus the format of your procedure with the official materials.
A detailed plan is in the 8-week training plan, an overview of all procedures in Pilot aptitude test preparation and the military routes in Military pilot aptitude tests.
How early should you start?
For most people 6 to 8 weeks are enough; with bigger gaps in maths, physics or English, plan 2 to 3 months. More on this in How long to prepare for the DLR test?. No training can guarantee a result, and the current information from the airline, flight school or authority always takes precedence.