An overview of the process of applying for scholarships.

The first thing to know about scholarships is that they give you FREE money. You never have to pay it back.

From time to time, various organizations or companies decide to give some money to deserving people to help them reach various goals. You benefit by receiving that money, and getting to do what you really want to do for less out-of-pocket money.

How much are you going to get?

That really depends on the scholarship. The smallest is usually about $500, and they average around $2,500; some are considerably more. Few scholarships will pay for your entire training expense, but all will help reduce that expense.

How do you get that money?

First, you need to figure out which scholarships you can qualify for. Each has it’s own specific requirements, though most follow a reasonably standard pattern. So, when you are ready, go to the section in the Aviation Scholarship Directory called “how to use this book” and find some scholarships you qualify for.

Now that you have several scholarships in mind, look at each carefully and make a list of all the things you need to do to get your application ready. Note the date that the application is due.

Next, fulfill all the requirements. If you need to solo, and you haven’t, get working on that. If you need to write an essay, start writing. Get all the pieces together and put them in a nice little packet, and put the packet in the mail before the due date.

Then, you need to submit your application to the organization, to let them know you are interested and to make the best case possible for why they should choose to give their money to you and not someone else. Applying for a scholarship does not guarantee you will get it, but not applying guarantees you won’t get it.

It is usually a good idea to call the organization about 3-5 days after you mailed the application, to make sure they got it. This way you can send another if it got lost in the mail, and they might be willing to wait for it (especially if you send it overnight) if you are proactive.

Now, wait for their decision. If it has been a few weeks, you might call, but it could take as long as two or three months.

Last, congratulate yourself on winning and make arrangements for your school or CFI to get the money. The money usually goes directly to the educational institution you are attending or training with, though sometimes you have to front the cash and submit receipts to the organization to get reimbursed. The organization should let you know their policies up front.

And that is the general process of applying for most any scholarship. It may sound a bit complicated, but the Aviation Scholarship Directory will help you through every step, point by point. If you still have questions, send us an email or give us a call; we want to help you win that scholarship money!

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