Check datesVerified Jul 1, 2026 against the official page

VAI Commercial Helicopter Rating Scholarship

Vertical Aviation International (VAI) · National

$10,000

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
$10,000 ($10,000 toward commercial helicopter rating training costs, plus complimentary VERTICON full registration for recipient and a guest)
Status
Check dates
Cycle
Opens approximately July, closes approximately November each year; winners announced in January
Who it's for
Open to all
Age
All ages
Certificates
Commercial
Region
National
Membership
Paid membership in the host organization is required to apply

Who this is for

Applicants must hold a private helicopter pilot certificate and be enrolled in a commercial helicopter rating program at an FAA-approved Part 141 school (or international equivalent), and must hold at least a second-class medical certificate. VAI membership is required to apply. Applying requires paid membership in the host organization; the application itself is free.

How to apply

  1. Read the full requirements on Vertical Aviation International (VAI)'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.

VAI Commercial Helicopter Rating Scholarship: quick answers

How much is the VAI Commercial Helicopter Rating Scholarship?

The published award is $10,000. $10,000 toward commercial helicopter rating training costs, plus complimentary VERTICON full registration for recipient and a guest.

When is the VAI Commercial Helicopter Rating Scholarship deadline?

Vertical Aviation International (VAI) doesn't publish fixed dates for this award. Opens approximately July, closes approximately November each year; winners announced in January.

Who is eligible for the VAI Commercial Helicopter Rating Scholarship?

Applicants must hold a private helicopter pilot certificate and be enrolled in a commercial helicopter rating program at an FAA-approved Part 141 school (or international equivalent), and must hold at least a second-class medical certificate. VAI membership is required to apply. Applying requires paid membership in the host organization; the application itself is free.

How do I apply for the VAI Commercial Helicopter Rating Scholarship?

Apply for free on Vertical Aviation International (VAI)'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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