Applications are now open for almost $120,000 worth of scholarships that will help student pilots and teens achieve their aviation goals.
The AOPA Foundation will award 25 flight training scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $12,000 to student pilots through the 2015 AOPA Flight Training Scholarship Program. AOPA also will award up to $15,000 in financial assistance to AOPA AV8R teen members to help them pursue an initial pilot certificate, study in an accredited aviation program, or attend an aviation or aerospace camp.
More student pilot scholarships
Online applications opened May 22 for the AOPA Flight Training Scholarship Program, designed to support passionate aviators in their efforts to earn an initial pilot certificate. Eligible applicants must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, at least 16 years old, hold a student pilot certificate and not have completed a checkride at the time of application, and be a current and paid member of AOPA at the time of application and when the scholarship is awarded. The deadline for applications is Aug. 9 at 10 p.m. Eastern time.
The scholarship program, funded by donations to the AOPA Foundation, began with four $5,000 scholarships in 2011. In 2015, it comprises 25 scholarships totaling $104,500, including 10 $5,000 scholarships made possible through the Breitling Aviation Scholarship Fund. A portion of the proceeds of the AOPA Navitimer Breitling watch goes toward the fund to help create the next generation of pilots.
Student pilots should complete the application online and ask two individuals to complete recommendations through an online recommendation form. The application and recommendations are due Aug. 9; one need only submit one application to be considered for the Jimmie Allen Flying Club Scholarship, Blackburn Flight Scholarship, Breitling Aviation Scholarship Fund scholarships, Richard R. and Gretchen E. Harper Scholarship in memory of Richard R. Harper, Noe-Singer Flight Training Scholarship, Erral Lea Plymate Memorial Endowment scholarships, Gina Santori Flight Training Scholarship, Richard Santori Memorial Scholarship, and Ceci Stratford Flight Training Scholarship.
Scholarship winners will be announced Oct. 2. Find more information about the scholarship program and apply online.
Scholarships for teens
AOPA also offers scholarships for teens through the AOPA AV8RS Scholarship Program. AOPA AV8RS is an AOPA membership category available at no charge to teens ages 13 to 18, funded through the AOPA Foundation and made possible through the Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust; the scholarship program will award up to $15,000 in financial assistance to current AV8RS members pursuing an aviation-related goal, including a primary pilot certificate, study in an aviation or aerospace field through an accredited aviation program, or attending an aviation or aerospace camp. Applications must be received by mail or email by Aug. 31 at 5 p.m. Eastern time.
Recipients will be chosen based on merit, previous accomplishments, ability to set goals, and demonstrated commitment to general aviation. Applicants must submit the application, a typed essay, a letter of recommendation, and documentation related to the school or camp. Teens may join AOPA AV8RS online.
Winners will be notified by Oct. 31, and scholarship awards will be paid directly to the approved flight school, college, technical school, aviation academy or high school, or aviation camp. Download the details and application form.
Sarah Deener
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