Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 7/16/2008

Question
I am 22 years old and have completed nearly 90 units toward my degree and I am looking for information on the fastest, most viable course of action to propel me toward an aviation career with either the Air Force or Navy. Along with ROTC, what training and/or financial assistance programs are available to future pilots?

Answer
Dear Ian --

Besides an ROTC scholarship or military academy attendance, there is little financial assistance you can get.  If you want to be a military pilot, you must pass an advanced physical, have perfect eyesight, exceptional reflexes, and at least a bachelors degree.  The bachelors degree should be in a science or an engineering, but can be in other fields.

If you qualify to enter the service for pilot training because you meet the above qualifications, whichever service accepts you will provide you all your flight training during each phase of pilot development.

Good luck to you.