# AOPA High School Flight Training Scholarship

The AOPA Foundation awards at least 90 flight-training scholarships of $12,000 each to high school students ages 16-18 pursuing a private pilot certificate; the fall application window runs October 1 to December 30.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | AOPA Foundation |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | 2026-12-30 (verified 2026-07-05) |
| Eligibility | Grades 10–12 |
| Format | Online / virtual |
| Location | Various |
| Apply | https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/students/flight-training-scholarships |

## About this program

# AOPA High School Flight Training Scholarship

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Foundation funds one of the largest youth flight-training scholarship programs in the country, helping high school students earn a private pilot certificate. At least 90 scholarships of $12,000 each are available, and the fall 2026 application period runs October 1 through December 30 at 11:59 p.m. ET, with award decisions announced by April 15.

## What You'll Do

- Apply online during the fall window with your academic record and aviation goals
- If selected, put the $12,000 award toward flight instruction and aircraft time at a flight school of your choice
- Progress through ground and flight training toward your private pilot checkride

## Who Should Apply

High school students ages 16-18 with a GPA of at least 2.7 who have already passed the FAA Private Pilot written knowledge exam before applying — evidence of serious commitment to flight training. It is ideal for students targeting careers as professional pilots, aerospace engineers, or military aviators.

## Outcomes

Winners receive $12,000 toward earning a private pilot certificate, the foundational credential for every professional flying career, plus connection to AOPA's national aviation community and its high school aviation education network.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the application deadline for AOPA High School Flight Training Scholarship?

The application deadline is December 30, 2026 (deadline last verified July 5, 2026). Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

### Who is eligible for AOPA High School Flight Training Scholarship?

AOPA High School Flight Training Scholarship is open to high school students in grades 10–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is AOPA High School Flight Training Scholarship online or in person?

AOPA High School Flight Training Scholarship is fully online — students can participate from anywhere with an internet connection.

### How do I apply to AOPA High School Flight Training Scholarship?

Apply directly through AOPA Foundation's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-06.
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