Scholarship Opportunities

EAA Flight Training Scholarships: Offered by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), these scholarships support students in the U.S. and Canada, with awards typically covering costs at most flight training schools. Applicants must demonstrate a strong passion for aviation and community involvement. Applications are due by February 28. eaa.org

AOPA Scholarships: The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) offers several scholarships, including for high school students and student pilots pursuing advanced ratings. These are funded through AOPA’s “You Can Fly” initiative to make flight training more accessible. aopa.org 

National Air Transportation Foundation Scholarships: This includes several scholarships such as the Navigate Your Future Scholarship ($2,500) and the Richard L. Taylor Flight Training Scholarship ($1,500). The application deadlines range throughout the year, with specific deadlines set for each program. nata.aero 

Aero Club of New England (ACONE) Pilot Training Scholarships: ACONE offers scholarships up to $4,500 for students aged 16+ who are New England residents with at least 100 hours of flight time. The program supports students pursuing a career in aviation, with funding for advanced, instrument, and primary flight training. Applications are typically due in March. acone.org

Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP): OBAP offers multiple scholarships for Black students and underrepresented groups pursuing flight training and aerospace careers. These scholarships are intended for various training levels and can cover partial to full tuition at accredited aviation programs. OBAP also offers mentorship and networking opportunities to support career growth in aviation. obap.org  

Latino Pilots Association (LPA): The LPA offers scholarships and grants through its ALAS program (Academy for Latins in Aerospace Science), specifically aimed at Latinx students interested in aviation. These scholarships help alleviate financial barriers for pilot training and can extend to other aviation careers like maintenance and engineering. latinopilot.org 

National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA): NGPA provides scholarships for LGBTQ+ individuals pursuing aviation careers, aiming to increase visibility and inclusivity in the industry. The scholarships are open to students at different training stages and can be applied to both flight and academic costs in aviation programs. ngpa.org 

Women in Aviation International (WAI) Scholarships: WAI provides a wide range of scholarships for women in aviation, covering areas like flight training, engineering, and career advancement. WAI members can apply for up to three scholarships each year. Winners will be announced at the WAI conference in March. wai.org

The Ninety-Nines Amelia Earhart Memorial Scholarships: This program offers multiple scholarships for women pursuing aviation, from flight training to technical training. Applicants must be members of The Ninety-Nines organization, have clear goals for advancing in aviation, and show financial need. The application deadline is January 1. ninety-nines.org

This organization offers scholarships for veterans pursuing pilot certifications, aiming to smooth their transition to civilian life and boost the pilot workforce. It has partnered with various aviation companies to support veterans at different stages of their flight training. stripestobars.org

Scholarships for Military Children: Sponsored by the Defense Commissary Agency, this program provides educational support for children of active, retired, or deceased military personnel. The scholarship can be used towards aviation-related studies at accredited institution. fisherhouse.org