Are GCSEs a hard standard, or is a degree also applicable for interview selection for direct entry to FO/SO?
Additional information
Hi, I do not have good GCSE grades, below requirements, but I have a 2:1 BSc Hons in environmental science degree. Will that be able to overcome the GCSE requirement and join the tagging system from an ATO integrated course. Some ATO say some UK airliners only look at GCSEs, is this true?Thanks Alex
Anonymous asked a question to Pilots
Category: Eligibility
Date asked: Sunday, June 22, 2025
Last reviewed: Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Chloe H.
Captain
Hi Alex -
In order to apply for our Speedbird Pilot Academy or Self-Sponsored Pathway with an ATO, you would need to have the GCSEs, anything higher we would not be able to accept, however if you were applying to one of our Direct Entry Pilot positions, you would not need to satisfy the GCSE requirements.
At this moment in time, our SSP campaign is not open to new applications and will remain closed for the foreseeable, however please do register for career updates here: Pilot Jobs | Hiring & Recruitments| British Airways Careers. If you scroll to the bottom of the page, you will be able to input your email address and sign up for alerts.
I hope this has helped.
Chloe
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Anonymous
Hi Chloe,
Thank you for the clarification, that's helps a lot.
Alex
Tuesday, June 24, 2025