EASA Part-66 Module Exam Structure: Questions, Time & Pass Mark

Why Exam Structure Matters

Knowing the structure of each EASA module exam is not just about satisfying curiosity — it directly affects how you should prepare. The number of questions determines how many topics you need to cover. The time limit determines your pacing strategy. The pass mark determines your margin for error. And the main topic areas tell you exactly which knowledge elements of Part-66 Appendix I to prioritise during your studies.

All EASA module exams share a common pass mark of 75% (66.A.25), are delivered as computer-based multiple-choice tests at approved examination centres run by maintenance training organisations (MTOs) or national aviation authorities, and are drawn from the knowledge syllabus defined in Appendix I to Part-66. However, the similarities end there. Each module has a unique scope, depth, and character that demands a tailored study approach.

For a broader overview of how all the exams fit together in your licensing journey, read our complete EASA Part-66 licence guide. If you are still deciding between licence categories, our maintenance engineer career guide will help you choose the right path.

EASA Part-66 Module Exam Comparison Table

The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of three representative module exams — M1 Mathematics, M3 Electrical Fundamentals, and M7 Maintenance Practices. Use it as a quick reference to understand how module exams are structured. The full set of 17 modules is listed further down.

As the table shows, module exams vary widely: M1 is a short 32-question paper, M3 carries 92 questions, and M7 — the largest module — has 140 questions plus essay questions for B1 and B2 candidates. All share a 75% pass mark. You must pass every module required for your licence category before you can be issued your EASA Part-66 licence by your national aviation authority.

The 17 Part-66 Modules at a Glance

Part-66 Appendix I defines 17 basic knowledge modules. Here are the official question quotas and minimum time limits (Appendix II); each module also specifies a depth level — 1 (overview), 2 (detailed), or 3 (in-depth) — which varies by licence category:

• M1 Mathematics — 32 questions / 40 min
• M2 Physics — 52 questions / 65 min
• M3 Electrical Fundamentals — 92 questions / 115 min
• M4 Electronic Fundamentals — 72 questions / 90 min
• M5 Digital Techniques/Electronic Instrument Systems — 92 questions / 115 min
• M6 Materials and Hardware — 72 questions / 90 min
• M7 Maintenance Practices — 140 questions / 175 min (essays for B1/B2)
• M8 Basic Aerodynamics — 42 questions / 55 min
• M9 Human Factors — 34 questions / 45 min (essay for B1/B2)
• M10 Aviation Legislation — 64 questions / 80 min (essay for B1/B2)
• M11 Aeroplane Aerodynamics, Structures and Systems — 120 questions / 150 min
• M12 Helicopter Aerodynamics, Structures and Systems — 90 questions / 115 min
• M13 Aircraft Aerodynamics, Structures and Systems — 120 questions / 150 min
• M14 Propulsion — 60 questions / 75 min
• M15 Gas Turbine Engine — 108 questions / 135 min
• M16 Piston Engine — 60 questions / 75 min
• M17 Propeller — 48 questions / 60 min

Nobody takes all 17 — each licence category maps to its own subset of 12–13 modules. A B1.1 (aeroplane turbine) candidate, for example, studies M1–M11 and M15–M17, while a B2 (avionics) candidate studies M1–M10 and M13. Check the module matrix in Appendix I for your exact list.

Common Features Across All Module Exams

• Pass mark: 75% (66.A.25) — for M1 that means at least 24 of 32 questions; for M3, at least 69 of 92; for M7, at least 105 of 140.
• Question format: Multiple-choice with one correct answer and distractors, plus essay questions on M7, M9, and M10 for B1 and B2 categories. Figure-based questions reference numbered illustrations in the exam.
• Computer-based: Module exams are administered at approved examination centres operated by MTOs or national aviation authorities.
• Closed book: No reference materials are permitted, though a calculator and scratch paper are provided.
• Retake policy: A minimum of 30 days between attempts, a maximum of three consecutive attempts per module, after which you must wait 12 months (66.A.25).
• Validity: Module certificates remain valid for 10 years for licence application purposes.

Despite these common features, each module demands a distinct preparation strategy. The following sections provide a detailed breakdown of three representative modules, including specific study tips.

Pacing Strategy for Timed Module Exams

Most module exams give you roughly 1.25 minutes per question, whatever their size — M1 works out to 40 minutes for 32 questions, M3 to 115 minutes for 92, and M7 to 175 minutes for 140. This sounds tight, and some questions — particularly those involving calculations or figure interpretation — can take 2–3 minutes. Here is a proven pacing strategy for a typical 92-question module exam:

• First pass (0–60 min): Answer all questions you are confident about. Flag questions you are unsure of and move on immediately. Aim to complete 60+ questions in the first hour.
• Second pass (60–95 min): Return to flagged questions. Spend up to 2 minutes each. Eliminate obviously wrong answers first, then choose the best remaining option.
• Final review (95–115 min): Review all answers, especially questions you flagged. Check for careless mistakes (misread questions, wrong units, simple arithmetic errors).

Practising with timed simulations is the best way to develop this pacing instinctively. Skylicence Europe offers full-length timed simulations for all 17 modules that replicate the exact examination environment, question quotas, and time limits.

Using Study Tools to Master Exam Structure

Understanding the exam structure is only the first step. To actually prepare efficiently, you need study tools that align with the structure of each module:

• Practice questions by module: Use Skylicence Europe to drill questions organised by Part-66 knowledge element, matching the exact subject distribution of each module exam.
• Timed simulations: Take full-length practice exams under real conditions to build pacing and identify weak areas before exam day.
• Performance analytics: Track your scores across all modules to see which need more attention and which knowledge elements within each module are dragging your score down.
• AI Tutor: When you encounter a concept that is difficult to grasp, ask the AI Tutor for a plain-language explanation tailored to the EASA Part-66 exam context.

To get started with free practice material, visit our free EASA Part-66 practice questions page.

Frequently Asked Questions About EASA Module Exams

Are all EASA module exams the same length?

No. Question quotas range from 32 (M1) to 140 (M7), and time limits from 40 minutes (M1) to 175 minutes (M7). All share a 75% pass mark. Most modules work out to roughly 1.25 minutes per question.

What is the pass mark for EASA module exams?

The pass mark for all EASA Part-66 module exams is 75% (66.A.25). On M1 that means at least 24 of 32 correct; on M3, at least 69 of 92; on M7, at least 105 of 140. There is no negative marking, so you should answer every question — even if you have to guess.

Which EASA module exam is the hardest?

Difficulty is subjective and depends on your background. Most candidates find M7 (Maintenance Practices) the most demanding by sheer volume — 140 questions — while M15 (Gas Turbine Engine) is widely cited as the most technically challenging for its depth. Candidates with strong electrical backgrounds often find M3 and M4 easier, while those with hands-on structural experience may breeze through M6 but struggle with M5 Digital Techniques.

Do I need to take all 17 modules?

No. Each licence category maps to its own subset of 12–13 modules. B1.1 (aeroplane turbine) candidates take M1–M11 plus M15–M17; B2 (avionics) candidates take M1–M10 plus M13. Check the module matrix in Part-66 Appendix I for your category, or use Skylicence Europe's category-based study paths. See our career guide for full details on choosing a category.

How many times can I retake an EASA module exam?

You must wait at least 30 days between attempts, and you may take a maximum of three consecutive attempts per module — after the third consecutive failure you must wait 12 months before trying again (66.A.25). Each retake incurs additional exam fees, and repeated failures can delay your licensing timeline. It is strongly recommended to achieve consistent scores of 80% or higher on practice simulations before booking a retake.

Where can I find free EASA Part-66 practice questions?

Skylicence Europe offers a free tier with practice questions covering one licence category (all its modules). The free plan gives you access to a representative sample of questions aligned with the Part-66 Appendix I syllabus, allowing you to evaluate the platform before committing to a paid subscription.

Next Steps in Your EASA Part-66 Journey

Now that you understand the structure of the module exams, here are your recommended next steps:

1. Review Appendix I and the module matrix — Read the Part-66 knowledge syllabus and confirm exactly which modules your licence category requires.
2. Build a study plan — Use our study mistakes guide and study resources guide to create a structured preparation schedule spanning 8–16 weeks.
3. Take a diagnostic test — Start with our free practice questions to establish your baseline score in each module.
4. Choose your path — If you have not already decided, read our certification guide to confirm which pathway (MTO training or experience-based, per 66.A.30) aligns with your situation.

Start your EASA Part-66 exam preparation with Skylicence Europe free →