Possible routes of Becoming a test pilot for me!!

[Jas1]

Hi Folks,

Before i tell you my situation i have read through the forum and the stuff on here does'nt apply to me i think.

So here it goes, I have always wanted to be a pilot ever since i can remember. Ok to cut a long story short i have just graduated from uni with a 2:1 (Hons) in aerospace systems engineering and want to become a test pilot, i have considered the RAF route but past max entry age last year.

I am considering going through a major FTO to get my fatpl, have already gone through the selection and been offered a place self funded in spain.

After getting my fATPL, work for a commercial airline for a number of years and then move into flight testing and possibly attend ETPS.

Are there any other ways of getting to be a test pilot, i dont think i could afford the 650K for ETPS even after working for an airline for a number of years.

Any help and suggestions are much appreciated

Thanks
Jas