Ray Aviation Scholars (EAA)
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) · National
$6,000 – $12,000
~$2.25M distributed annually through local EAA chapters
Free to apply. Amounts and dates come from the provider's official page on the date shown; always confirm there before applying.
At a glance
- Award
- $6,000 – $12,000 (Up to $12,000 for Private Pilot, $9,000 for Sport Pilot, $6,000 for Glider Pilot)
- Status
- Open · closes in 53 days
- Deadline
- August 31, 2026
- Opens
- February 1, 2026
- Cycle
- Chapter applications open Nov 1 through Jan 31; scholar nominations run Feb through Aug 31 each year
- Who it's for
- Open to all
- Age
- Youth (age or grade cap applies)
- Certificates
- Private (PPL)
- Region
- National
Who this is for
Open to youth ages 15-19 (16-19 for powered flight) who have completed at least one EAA Young Eagles flight; candidates are nominated by a local EAA chapter and must hold or be able to obtain a student pilot certificate to pursue a Private Pilot, Sport Pilot, or Glider certificate.
How to apply
- Read the full requirements on Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)'s official page. Applying is free.
- Line up the slow pieces early: recommendation letters, transcripts, and any medical or student pilot certificate the provider asks for.
- Write the essay with numbers, not passion: name your certificate goal, your school, your hours so far, and exactly what this award covers. Build your plan so every figure in the essay is real.
Ray Aviation Scholars (EAA): quick answers
How much is the Ray Aviation Scholars (EAA)?
The published award is $6,000 – $12,000. Up to $12,000 for Private Pilot, $9,000 for Sport Pilot, $6,000 for Glider Pilot. One application cycle covers multiple awards (~$2.25M distributed annually through local EAA chapters).
When is the Ray Aviation Scholars (EAA) deadline?
The deadline on the provider's official page is August 31, 2026. Applications are open right now. Chapter applications open Nov 1 through Jan 31; scholar nominations run Feb through Aug 31 each year.
Who is eligible for the Ray Aviation Scholars (EAA)?
Open to youth ages 15-19 (16-19 for powered flight) who have completed at least one EAA Young Eagles flight; candidates are nominated by a local EAA chapter and must hold or be able to obtain a student pilot certificate to pursue a Private Pilot, Sport Pilot, or Glider certificate.
How do I apply for the Ray Aviation Scholars (EAA)?
Apply for free on Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)'s official page. There is no application fee, and no legitimate aviation scholarship charges one or asks for your Social Security number. Have your essay, recommendation letters, and any required certificates ready before the window opens.
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