But if you're not a citizen, you could have a chance of becoming a Russian cosmonaut, a Chinese taikonaut or an astronaut for the European Space Agency. The better you do in high school and college, the better your chances of landing a great job or a place in a top grad school. Here's what you'll need. A bachelor's degree in engineering, biological science, physical science or math. A master's degree can replace one year of experience, a Ph.D. can be substituted for all three years.
Most astronauts have graduate degrees plus some experience.
Pilot astronauts also need flight experience. You can send in an application at any time, but NASA only selects every two years. About one in 20 applicants are called for a week of interviews. Among other things, interviewers want to see how well you get along with others, think for yourself and have a wide range of skills. Perseverance Only about one in 120 applicants are accepted.