Expert: David A. NewMyer - 7/14/2008

Question
Hello, my name is Saw Maung.Ever since i was young,i am very interested in flying and really keen to be a pilot.Though, currently i have been studying in diploma of aircraft maintenence (avionics), i really wish to change my study and really want to apply for scholarships in pilot trainning.But, the question is that i do not know where to start and how to get it.If i apply for that scholarships, at least what kind of qualifications are required? Thank you!
I would be very please,if somebody consider and answer my question!

Thanks in advnce,
Saw Maung

Answer
Hi,

Thanks for your question, I will try to assist!

First of all, regarding aviation scholarships, there are three good sources for scholarships:

1.  The individual aviation schools or universities to which you apply will frequently have aviation scholarships for you to apply for.  As far as a listing of colleges and universities that offer aviation degree programs, please check out www.uaa.aero and go to "publications" on that site.  Then look for THE COLLEGIATE AVIATION GUIDE.....this is a comprehensive listing of aviation degree programs offered at the college or university level.  This is an excellent place to START in that it lists the major aviation flight-related pilot training programs that are offered in the USA and elsewhere.  Some of the aviation colleges and universities are:

Auburn University
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University
Florida Insitute of Technology
Purdue University
University of North Dakota
Southern Illinois University Carbondale (this is the school I work for)
(Kansas State University-Salina
(Please check the UAA listing for a more complete list)

2.  Also at www.uaa.aero is a listing of aviation scholarships entitled THE COLLEGIATE AVIATION SCHOLARSHIP LISTING.  You can review it at this site or you can order your own copy for your own personal use.  Also listed at this site are the current aviation scholarships that are available for application.

3.  Finally, please check www.avscholars.com for information on aviation financial aid and scholarships.  It is a website that was assembled by a former aviation student from Purdue University who had the experience of self-financing his collegiate aviation education.

One other option for pilot training IF you already have a college degree is to do your flight training via a private flight school.  That is, one that is not necessarily affiliated with a college or university.  Such flight schools are Flight Safety International, Gulfstream, ATP, Delta Academy and Southeastern Flight Academy.

I hope that this information is of assistance to you!  
Best wishes,

David  A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale