Experimental Aircraft Association Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by Experimental Aircraft Association
Overview
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) scholarships fund flight training and additional ratings through donor-supported endowments. These programs are intended to help applicants develop into active participants in aviation, from first-time student pilots to those pursuing advanced ratings. One application covers all scholarships and applicants are evaluated against the criteria for each named award. Awards are distributed to candidates who demonstrate the greatest potential for engagement in aviation.
Description: EAA scholarships are funded by donors, benefactors, and supporters who “pass it forward” to underwrite training, certifications, and ratings for promising aviation students.
- Donor-funded scholarships support a range of flight training needs.
- A single application is used to consider candidates for all eligible awards.
- Awards target applicants likely to remain active in aviation.
Application Timeline
The application period opens on October 1 and applicants should prepare documentation and recommendations in advance. All recipients will be notified of awards on March 2, 2026, so applicants should plan training timelines accordingly. Submit early to avoid technical issues and to ensure complete materials are reviewed by the committee. Deadlines and notification dates are fixed for the award cycle.
Application Timeline: Applications open October 1; recipients announced March 2, 2026.
- Application window begins October 1.
- Notification of awards on March 2, 2026.
- Prepare transcripts, recommendations, and proof of eligibility before applying.
Eligibility and How to Apply
Applicants must meet basic eligibility criteria and submit the single EAA scholarship application to be considered for all applicable awards. Minimum academic and residency requirements are enforced, and some named scholarships may impose higher standards. Applications are reviewed against each scholarship’s specific criteria, and the selection committee awards funds to candidates who best match those criteria. Follow the application instructions carefully to ensure full consideration.
Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens or residents of the United States or Canada, or otherwise eligible to work or study in the U.S. or Canada (for example, via an appropriate visa). A minimum 2.5 GPA is required to apply; individual scholarships may require a higher GPA. Applying once makes you eligible for all scholarships for which you qualify.
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required; some awards require higher GPA.
- U.S. or Canadian citizens/residents, or those eligible to study/work, may apply.
- One application covers all scholarships in the program.
Award Value and History
The EAA Aviation Foundation awards more than $135,000 each year to support students pursuing flight training and ratings. In the most recent cycle, scholarships helped 31 students progress toward their aviation goals. These scholarships are sustained by donations, endowments, and benefactors who contribute to the foundation’s mission. Funding is allocated to recipients based on fit with individual scholarship objectives and demonstrated potential.
Award Value: The program distributes over $135,000 annually to support flight training and ratings.
History of the Award: Scholarships are supported by dozens of donors and benefactors who endow programs to expand access to aviation training and education.
- Program awards exceed $135,000 each year.
- Recent cycle supported 31 students.
- Funding sustained through donor endowments and contributions.
Selection Considerations
The selection committee looks for well-rounded applicants who demonstrate a strong passion for aviation and a commitment to remaining active in the community. Participation in aviation and non-aviation clubs, extracurricular activities, and volunteer service strengthens applications. Preference is sometimes given to EAA members or local chapter members, though membership is not required. Selection emphasizes demonstrated potential, character, and contributions to aviation and community activities.
Description: Selection is based on demonstrated passion, extracurricular involvement, volunteer experience, and alignment with the specific criteria for each scholarship.
- Seek to show aviation passion through activities and training.
- Volunteer and extracurricular involvement strengthen candidacy.
- EAA membership may be a factor but is not mandatory.