10 Best Flight Training Scholarships: Classroom to Cockpit!

Dreaming of becoming a pilot but feeling grounded by the high cost of flight training courses? We understand. Pursuing an aviation career requires extensive training, flight hours, and certifications, leading to significant expenses. Flight training scholarships can help make your flying dream a reality! Whether you’re just starting, seeking to earn a private pilot license, or aiming for a commercial aviation career, there are several flight training scholarships for you. Stay with us as we take you through the best of them in this blog.

What are Flight Training Scholarships?

These are specialized financial awards that help aspiring pilots cover their aviation education expenses. The scholarships for flight training can range from a few hundred dollars to comprehensive packages covering the entire cost of flight training. Many of these aviation training scholarships are merit-based while some focus on the financial need of the student. One can leverage these scholarships to fund various stages of pilot education, including earning a private pilot license (PPL), or an advanced commercial, and airline transport pilot (ATP). These pilot training scholarships for international students also fund underrepresented groups like women, minorities, and veterans. In addition, you also get benefits like mentorship opportunities, networking events, or guaranteed job interviews.  

Types of Flight Training Scholarships

There are several different flight training scholarships, catering to different needs, career goals, and eligibility criteria. Many offer full scholarships for pilot training, while others provide partial funding to help cover tuition, flight hours, and certification fees. Below are the different types of pilot training scholarships for international students.

1. Private Pilot Scholarships (PPL): These cover the cost of initial flight training for beginners. Students who have little to no prior experience and want to start their career in aviation can opt for these aviation pilot scholarships. Organizations like Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) offer these scholarships for students demonstrating a passion for flying.

2. Commercial Pilot Scholarships: These are perfect for advanced flight training which includes flight hours and certifications required for commercial aviation jobs. With these aviation training scholarships, one can transition from a private to a professional pilot.

3. Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Scholarships: An ATP license is the highest level of pilot certification that lets you fly for major airlines. These aviation training grants help pilots bridge the gap between commercial flying and airline careers. Airlines, such as Delta, Southwest, and United offer ATP scholarships as part of their pilot development programs.   

4. Merit-Based Scholarships: You get these airline pilot scholarships based on your academic performance, aviation achievements, and leadership qualities. Students must submit essays, letters of recommendation, and proof of their passion for aviation for these scholarships.  

5. Military and ROTC Scholarships: Military flight training scholarships, including US Air Force ROTC and Navy aviation programs, cover flight training expenses in exchange for a service commitment. If you seek to serve in the military while gaining top-tier aviation training, these scholarships are the best option. 

10 Best Flight Training Scholarships

Say goodbye to the high cost of flight training with the many scholarships for pilot training. Offered by airlines, aviation organizations, private foundations, and universities, these scholarships make flight training more accessible. Read on to explore the best flight training scholarships and their eligibility requirements.

1. Dan L. Meisinger Sr. Memorial Learn to Fly Scholarship  

Funded By: National Air Transportation Association (NATA)
Award Amount: $2,500
Deadline: 28 November 2025

One of the best flight training scholarships, the Dan L. Meisinger Sr. Memorial Learn to Fly scholarship was introduced in honor of Dan L. Meisinger, a pioneer in aviation who founded Executive Beechcraft. To get this pilot training scholarship, one must demonstrate a strong academic record, financial need, and a genuine passion for aviation. Also, students who embody the dedication to aviation safety and professionalism have a high chance of getting this scholarship.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a college student currently enrolled in an aviation course
• A high academic achiever with a ‘B’ average or higher
• Recommended by an aviation professional (direct applications are also accepted)
• Be a resident of Kansas, Missouri, or Illinois

2. Richard L. Taylor Flight Training Scholarship 

Funded By: National Air Transportation Association (NATA)
Award Amount: $1,500 
Deadline: 29 March 2025

Another pilot training scholarship offered by NATA is the Richard L. Taylor Flight Training Scholarship. Named after a distinguished aviation educator at Ohio State University Dr. Richard L. Taylor, it supports students with exceptional academic records and leadership potential. The award amount is meant to be used for one year of full-time undergraduate study. To apply for this pilot scholarship program, one must provide a copy of their pilot license, an essay detailing aviation dreams and goals, a transcript, and an acceptance letter from the university.  

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be enrolled in an accredited institution
• Pursuing a flight program through the university 
• Have a private pilot’s license
• Have a GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Complete the official application

3. Captain Jason Dahl Scholarship Fund

‍Funded By: Dahl Fund
‍Award Amount: $2,098 
Deadline: 15 April 2025

Next on our list of the best flight training scholarships is the Captain Jason Dahl Scholarship Fund, introduced in memory of United Airlines Captain Jason Dahl. He died heroically as captain of Flight 93 on September 11, 2001. This scholarship supports students pursuing careers as commercial pilots. To get this award, students must be enrolled in an accredited aviation course and showcase academic excellence, financial need, and a strong desire to pursue a professional pilot career.  

‍Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a full-time student having completed at least one semester at an accredited four-year college or university course
• Must be a major in aviation or an equivalent field of study

4. Air Line Pilots Association Scholarship

Funded By: Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
Award Amount: $60,000 
Deadline: 1 April 2025 

Offered by ALPA, this pilot program scholarship provides financial assistance to cover flight training, college tuition, and certification fees. It is open to ALPA members and their families. With a total value of $60,000, the scholarship offers $15,000 annually for four consecutive years, contingent upon the recipient maintaining a satisfactory academic record with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, the student must be enrolled in a program of study that leads to a baccalaureate degree.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a child of a medically retired, long-term disabled, or deceased pilot member of ALPA

5. EAA Flight Training Scholarships

‍Funded By: Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)
‍Award Amount: $5,000
‍Deadline: 28 February 2025

The EAA offers a range of scholarships for pilot training, including the Air Academy Alumni Scholarship, John S. Bradbury Memorial Scholarship, and Adapt to Fly Scholarship. The award amount varies, covering everything from primary flight training to advanced ratings. EAA particularly focuses on young aviators with funds covering flight lessons, training materials, and other related costs. To increase your chances of getting this pilot training scholarship, exhibit a strong passion for aviation and participate in aviation and non-aviation clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities. You can even volunteer for local organizations.   

‍Eligibility Requirements:

• Have a minimum GPA of 2.5
• Must be a citizen of the US or Canada

6. GRCF Joshua Esch Mitchell Aviation Scholarship

‍Funded By: Grand Rapids Community Foundation
‍Award Amount: $5,000
‍Deadline: 1 March 2025

One of the best aviation training scholarships, it is available to first-year undergraduate students who graduated from West Michigan Aviation Academy or second-year undergraduates from any high school. You must demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and a passion for aviation to obtain this scholarship. Additionally, you must provide information about your education history and a personal essay. You can increase your chances of getting this pilot training scholarship by showcasing community involvement and leadership potential. 

‍Eligibility Requirements:

• Hold a valid pilot’s certificate
• Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 or higher

7. Marty Rosness Student Scholarships

Funded By: Arizona Airports Association (AzAA)
Award Amount: $1,250
Deadline: 28 February 2025

Established in memory of Marty Rosness, a well-respected aviation figure, these are also one of the best scholarships for pilot training. Students who exhibit exceptional technical aptitude and a strong work ethic have a high chance of obtaining these flight training scholarships. These scholarships are particularly aimed at students pursuing flight training or operations. The recipients can use the award amount to fund their flight hours, textbooks, and flight school tuition. Students are not required to be an AzAA member to apply for this pilot training scholarship. Also, note that scholarship recipients are required to attend the AzAA Spring Conference to receive the award.

Eligibility Requirements:

• A complete application form
• Current copy of college academic transcripts
• A resume

8. Costas Sivyllis ALPA Education Scholarship

‍Funded By: Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) 
Award Amount: $15,000
‍Deadline: 18 June 2025

Aiming to promote excellence in the aviation industry, it is one of the best flight training scholarships. Established in memory of Costas Sivyllis, this scholarship is awarded to students who are pursuing their Private Pilot License, Commercial Pilot License, and Airline Transport Pilot. Students showcasing exemplary aviation career goals have a high chance of getting this pilot training scholarship. ALPA also values involvement in aviation organizations and peer monitoring activities.

‍Eligibility Requirements:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree in aviation
• Active in the ALPA education program at their university
• Have a GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale) or 3.5 (5.0 scale)

9. RCAF Foundation Student Scholarship

Funded By: Royal Canadian Airforce Foundation (RCAF)
Award Amount: $1,000
Deadline:

One of the best airline pilot training scholarships, it supports post-secondary students in STEM areas of study who are looking for a career in aviation. Students who are enrolled in a university aviation program or flight school and are working toward obtaining their Private Pilot License can apply for this pilot training scholarship. It covers a portion of the expenses associated with flight training and sometimes even tuition fees, flight hours, and training materials. One must demonstrate financial need and a strong academic record, along with a commitment to serving in aviation. 

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a citizen of Canada or a permanent resident

10. Unitil Scholarship Fund

‍Funded By: Unitil Corporation
‍Award Amount: $5,000
‍Deadline: 31 March 2025
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Unitil Scholarship Fund, one of the best scholarships for pilot training, supports high school seniors planning to pursue their bachelor’s degree in STEM. It is available to students residing in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts who demonstrate outstanding academic record. Though it’s not specifically focused on aviation, students pursuing aerospace engineering or aviation-related degrees can apply for it. Besides academic excellence, it also looks at a student’s leadership skills, community involvement, and financial need. An independent scholarship committee looks at the applications and the scholarship covers tuition, books, and other educational expenses at an accredited university or college. 

‍Eligibility Requirements:

• Must reside in New Hampshire, Maine, or Massachusetts
• Enrolled in a degree program with a declared major in STEM

In a nutshell, flight training scholarships are your sure shot tickets to turn your flying dreams into reality. From private pilot licenses to more advanced aviation certifications, these aviation pilot scholarships can help you complete your education without hassles. Additionally, programs like amber scholar provide further support to students in need, providing financial aid to cover various expenses. Don’t let cost keep you from fulfilling your goals, explore the available scholarships today and take the first step toward your aviation career!