Open · closes in 295 daysVerified Jul 1, 2026 against the official page

National Aviation Explorer Scholarships

Exploring (Learning for Life / BSA) · National

$5,000 – $10,000

Multiple awards, one application

Free to apply. Amounts and dates come from the provider's official page on the date shown; always confirm there before applying.

Samip Shah
Written by · founder of PilotBound

At a glance

Award
$5,000 – $10,000 (Awards range from $5,000 to $10,000; one standard application covers all scholarship categories)
Status
Open · closes in 295 days
Deadline
April 30, 2027
Cycle
Deadline April 30 each year; recipients notified by July 1
Who it's for
Open to all
Age
All ages
Certificates
Private (PPL), Any certificate or rating
Region
National
Membership
Paid membership in the host organization is required to apply

Who this is for

Applicant must be currently registered and active in an Aviation Explorer post (Learning for Life / BSA). A minimum of three recommendation letters from non-family aviation or community contacts are required, and all scholarship funds must be used within 24 months of the award. Applying requires paid membership in the host organization; the application itself is free.

How to apply

  1. Read the full requirements on Exploring (Learning for Life / BSA)'s official page, including the membership requirement. Applying is free.
  2. Line up the slow pieces early: recommendation letters, transcripts, and any medical or student pilot certificate the provider asks for.
  3. 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.

National Aviation Explorer Scholarships: quick answers

How much is the National Aviation Explorer Scholarships?

The published award is $5,000 – $10,000. Awards range from $5,000 to $10,000; one standard application covers all scholarship categories. One application cycle covers multiple awards (Multiple awards, one application).

When is the National Aviation Explorer Scholarships deadline?

The deadline on the provider's official page is April 30, 2027. Applications are open right now. Deadline April 30 each year; recipients notified by July 1.

Who is eligible for the National Aviation Explorer Scholarships?

Applicant must be currently registered and active in an Aviation Explorer post (Learning for Life / BSA). A minimum of three recommendation letters from non-family aviation or community contacts are required, and all scholarship funds must be used within 24 months of the award. Applying requires paid membership in the host organization; the application itself is free.

How do I apply for the National Aviation Explorer Scholarships?

Apply for free on Exploring (Learning for Life / BSA)'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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