Can I prepare STS in two weeks?

Only if you already have strong A2-level knowledge and can dedicate multiple hours daily - most pilots need longer.

Should I pass A2 first?

Strongly recommended - STS builds on open-category concepts and risk thinking.

How many full simulations?

At least 8-12 full attempts with analysis before the official test.

STS exam

How long does STS exam preparation take?

STS is a 60-question, 60-minute assessment. Most pilots need more calendar time than for A2 - here is a realistic plan.

A2STS editorial15 min readUpdated 26/05/2026

Contents

1. Realistic calendar time

With A2 already passed: 4-6 weeks at ~45-60 minutes per day. Without A2: add 3-4 weeks for open-category foundations first.

Aviation-background candidates may compress to 3-4 weeks, but still need full 60-minute endurance training.

2. Why STS takes longer than A2

Double the question count (60 vs 30) increases study volume and exam stamina requirements.

STS procedural questions cannot be memorised as isolated facts - you must understand scenario flow and mitigation hierarchy.

3. Recommended time split by topic

Allocate roughly 40% of study time to STS operational procedures, 20% to meteorology, and the remainder across airspace, batteries, human factors and regulations.

Over-investing in regulations alone is a common mistake - procedures drive the majority of marks.

STS procedures ~45% of exam weight
Meteorology ~15%
Airspace, batteries, human factors ~10% each

4. Six-week sample plan

Weeks 1-2: procedures + airspace reading with untimed questions. Weeks 3-4: timed topic blocks. Weeks 5-6: full 60/60 simulations every 2-3 days with error analysis.

Do not book the NAA date until three consecutive simulations at ≥80% (≥48/60).

5. Building 60-minute concentration

Start with 20-question timed blocks, then 40, then full 60. Track when accuracy drops - usually after minute 40 for unprepared candidates.

Hydration, sleep and consistent session times improve endurance more than last-minute cramming.

6. When to register with your NAA

Official pass mark is 75% (45/60). Under stress, scores often drop 3-7 points - train to 80%+.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare STS in two weeks?: Only if you already have strong A2-level knowledge and can dedicate multiple hours daily - most pilots need longer.
Should I pass A2 first?: Strongly recommended - STS builds on open-category concepts and risk thinking.
How many full simulations?: At least 8-12 full attempts with analysis before the official test.

Authority & sources

A2STS Editorial · Reviewed by: EASA UAS syllabus aligned