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NGPA Scholarships are Open!

Posted by Tom Thinnes on
June 17, 2021

About Scholarships

The cost of education and training is one of the most challenging barriers to entry for those interested in a career in aviation. Whether it's getting a private pilot's license, an advanced certificate or rating, or even an A&P license or float plane endorsement, NGPA scholarships provide a stepping stone for aspiring individuals at a crucial point in their education.

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Who is eligible for an NGPA scholarship?

The NGPA and its sponsoring partners offer various scholarships for those pursuing a career in aviation. Each scholarship description will have specific eligibility requirements unique to that particular scholarship. Applicants are encouraged to carefully read the scholarship descriptions to ensure that they qualify. The only universal requirement is that you must be an NGPA member at the time of application submission.

Can international members apply?

Yes! International members may apply for many of our scholarships. Applicants are encouraged to carefully read the requirements for individual scholarships to determine eligibility.

How will recipients be selected?

Candidates are scored by a selection committee made up of members from various aviation-related backgrounds. This committee scores applicants on various criteria which may include financial need, leadership opportunities, academic performance, involvement in the LGBTQ community, and quality of the application essays. It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure his/her application highlights these areas. Please read each scholarship description in order to fully understand the particular criteria that will be scored. After applications are evaluated, scores are tallied and the Scholarship Committee Chair will recommend the finalists to the respective sponsoring partner and/or the NGPA Board of Directors for approval.

When can I apply?

Applications are now being accepted through August 31, 2021. 

Click here to apply now

Will a scholarship be awarded on the basis of an individual’s gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation?

No. But the applicant should provide evidence of his or her contributions to the LGBTQ community. This can be accomplished in a number of ways such as volunteer work for an AIDS organization, participation in groups that support LGBTQ rights, volunteering for LGBTQ advocacy or an LGBTQ Ally organization such as PFLAG. The strength of the applicant’s commitment to supporting and bettering the LGBTQ community is one of the criteria established by the NGPA Scholarship Selection Committee. In all cases, the scholarship will be awarded regardless of race, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and other groups protected by applicable non-discrimination laws.

How will the awards be administered?

Scholarship awards are paid directly to the educational institution or flight school to offset the cost of the recipient’s tuition or training. Awards are based on U.S. Dollar amounts. Non-U.S. applicants will need to consider the exchange rate in order to determine the actual value of the award, if applicable. Flight schools should be either part 141 or part 61 to be approved for direct payment of scholarship funds.

I’ve won NGPA scholarships in the past. Can I apply?

Yes! Previous years’ recipients can apply provided they meet current eligibility requirements.

How do I apply?

Interested applicants should visit ngpa.org and click on the “Scholarships” tab or Click here. Personal information, essays, and supporting documentation will be required as part of the application process. Please review all scholarships to see for which ones would be the best fit for you.

Can I apply for more than one scholarship?

Yes. Each applicant may apply for up to 2 scholarships. Should the applicant be selected as the recipient for several scholarships, he/she may only receive 1 scholarship (at the preference of the applicant). This measure ensures the NGPA can help support a broad base of individuals.

Who do I contact with additional questions?

Additional questions may be sent to @email.