2026 Pilot Scholarships Are Now Open Sept. 2, 2026

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Level Up Aviation (LUA) Spring 2026 Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Applicants must be at least 16 years old and a high school senior by Fall 2026. There is no maximum age limit.

• Be a current U.S. resident

• Be at least 16 years of age at the time of application

• Demonstrate a willingness to pursue a career as a professional pilot 

• Enrolled in a private pilot ground school course or logged flight time with a Certified Flight Instructor. Funds may be used for: Flight training such as private pilot, instrument, multiengine, commercial, instructor, or ATP.

Note: The scholarship award will be paid directly to the flight school or university the recipient is attending.

How to Apply:

General Application Requirements

Applications for the Fall 2026 LUA Scholarship will open on Sept 2, 2026, and must be submitted no later than Oct 2, 2026.

All applications must be submitted via email to: LUA@levelupaviation.org

Your complete application must include the following:

1. One Letter of Recommendation

• No more than one page in length

• Must not be from a family member

• Letters in languages other than English are welcome

2. Personal Essay (max 1,000 words)

Your essay should explain how this scholarship will help you reach your aviation goals and the financial support it provides. It must include:

• Your full name and contact information (email and phone number)

• A brief personal biography

• How this scholarship will help you achieve your aviation goals

• A clear explanation of your financial need (avoid general phrases like "relieve my financial burden"; instead, provide specific context)

• Why you are passionate about a career in aviation

3. Resume (max 2 pages)

• Do not include a photo

• Include your work history or academic background

• List any educational awards or honors

• Mention any volunteer or community involvement

• Detail aviation-related activities and accomplishments

• If applying for flight training, include certifications obtained, dates, and flight hours

4. Flight Training Applicants Only

• Include copies of your current pilot and medical certificates

• if you do not yet possess them or are in the process of obtaining them, please state that clearly in your application

5. Media Release Consent

• Indicate whether you are willing to allow LUA to share your image, name, and a brief bio on our social media platforms if selected as a recipient.

Application Deadline:

All required materials must be submitted by Oct 2, 2026, to LUA@levelupaviation.org.