Experimental Aircraft Association Scholarships

Scholarship Sponsored by Experimental Aircraft Association

If you’re serious about becoming a pilot or earning another rating, the EAA scholarships are a practical way to move from “I want to” to “I’m doing it.” These awards are funded by donors, benefactors, and alumni who believe in passing the opportunity forward to the next generation of aviators. Important dates - Application window: October 1 – December 19, 2025 - Award notifications: March 2, 2026 What the program offers - The EAA Aviation Foundation awards more than $135,000 annually to students for flight training. This year those awards helped 31 students get closer to their flying goals. - One application covers every available scholarship. Your single submission will be considered for all scholarships for which you qualify. How selection works - Applications are matched to the criteria for individual scholarships, then awarded to candidates who show the greatest potential to be actively engaged in aviation. - Reviewers look for evidence that you will continue contributing to the aviation community, not just someone who wants the money. What makes a strong application - Be well-rounded: show both aviation-related and non-aviation involvement (clubs, sports, music, STEM activities, etc.). - Demonstrate passion for aviation: coursework, projects, personal flying time, and thoughtful essays help. - Volunteer work matters: service to local organizations—aviation- or community-focused—strengthens your application. - Membership matters (but is not required): preference is often given to EAA members or members of local EAA chapters. - GPA minimum: 2.5 to apply. Some individual scholarships require higher GPAs—check details. - Eligibility: must be a U.S. or Canadian citizen or resident, or otherwise eligible to work or study in the U.S. or Canada (for example, hold an appropriate visa). Smart next steps (quick checklist) - Mark the application window and notification date on your calendar. - Gather transcripts and proof of citizenship/visa eligibility early. - List activities, leadership roles, and volunteer experiences with dates and contact names. - Draft a clear, personal statement about your aviation goals and how you’ll stay involved in the community. - Consider joining or connecting with your local EAA chapter if you haven’t already. If you prepare in advance and present a balanced, sincere application, you’ll give yourself the best chance of being selected. Good luck — and keep flying toward that goal.