Definition
The standard cutoff used by the FAA on knowledge tests, written exams, and many training course evaluations, where a score of 70 percent or higher is required to pass. A score below 70 percent is a failure and requires retesting or remedial training before the applicant can proceed.
Plain English
You need to get at least 70 percent of the questions right to pass. Anything less is a fail, and you'll have to study more and try again.
Context Anchor
Seen in lesson planning and testing discussions, especially when an instructor writes a clear objective that states how well the learner must perform.
Why Pilots Care
Maintains a uniform standard so only pilots who demonstrate sufficient knowledge receive certificates.
Intuition Check
Do not read 70 percent as the goal for mastery. Here it is the lowest score that still counts as passing.
Example Sentence 1
She scored 82 percent on her Private Pilot knowledge test, comfortably above the minimum passing score of 70 percent.
Example Sentence 2
After scoring 68 percent, the student retook the test to reach the minimum passing score of 70 percent.