Star Flight Foundation

The selection process for the accelerated summer program is a three stage process to efficiently walk candidates through meeting requirements and help identify which applicants have the highest likelihood of success in becoming commercial pilots.

Stage One

In this stage, the initial application form is completed and tracking of the candidate through the selection process begins. When all of these requirements are met, they move to stage two.

Application Form

The initial application to be eligible for the selection process. It collects basic applicant demographic and background information along with permission to track progress and maintain records on the candidate.

Statement of Financial Need

Each applicant will be asked to complete a written explanation detailing an individual's current financial situation that demonstrates why they require financial assistance. They may highlight income, expenses, and any factors impacting the ability to afford costs associated with applying for or participating in this program. Demonstrated financial need is not a requirement to be selected, but financial assistance may be available for obtaining the prerequisites (including applicants not selected for the program) where candidates demonstrate that costs pose a barrier to applying.

Essay

With the initial application, include an essay on why the candidate is interested in becoming a pilot and participating in the accelerated program.

Statement of Meeting Basic Requirements

• Have at least a 3.0 GPA
• Be a U.S. citizen
• Be a Virginia resident
• Be 17 years old by the start of the program (2 June 2025)
• Be able to pass an FAA flight physical exam
• Have reliable daily transportation and able to commit to the program timeline

Stage Two

Stage two involves steps that will help ensure candidates who make it to the final selection process will be able to meet the FAA requirements to conduct flight training and obtain a pilot certificate. Additional screening helps ensure chosen candidates have a high likelihood of success in the fast-paced flight training environment.

Pilot Aptitude Test

Completion of a computer-based pilot aptitude test will help assess the candidate's likelihood of success in the flight training program as well as identify weak areas they should work on before training begins. The test must be given under supervision at Star Flight Training (or another approved location). There is a $100 fee for this test.

Logged Flight Training

To ensure compatibility with the flight training environment, candidates should have logged at least one training flight in an airplane. (Discovery flights count.) A copy of the logbook entry will meet the requirement.

Obtain a Student Pilot Certificate

Applicants will be asked to obtain a student pilot certificate. The FAA does not charge a fee for the certificate, however, some schools or independent instructors may charge for their time. Star Flight Foundation can help with the process and does not charge a fee when applying for this program. More information on student pilot certificates: https://www.faa.gov/pilots/become/student_cert

Obtain a First Class Medical

The FAA requires pilots to pass a medical exam prior to solo and to exercise privileges of their pilot certificate. This involves, among other things, a test of eyesight, hearing, overhead reach, and a drug test. The exam is given at a number of independent doctor offices and costs around $180 and the process is explained here: https://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/medical_certification/

Statement of Support / Availability / Commitment

To be successful in this accelerated course, selected applicants must be at the flight school every day during the program period. Instruction periods will last approximately 8 hours each day. Due to the way training is scheduled with other program participants and the timing of checkrides, maintenance, etc., if the student falls behind, there is little that can be done to catch up and their participation will be terminated. Reliable transportation and no other commitments during the program is a must. A signed (by student and guardian, if younger than 18) statement indicating the student, if selected, is willing and able to meet these requirements must be provided during this stage of the application process.

Letters of Recommendation

Submit letters of recommendation from three people who will attest to the applicant's desire and ability to be successful in the program. Include contact information so the selection committee can reach out to them if further information is needed.

FAA Computer Knowledge Test Passed

The FAA requires a person successfully pass a computer knowledge test prior to taking their checkride. Because this test requires a good deal of study and practice, it is best for this requirement to have been completed prior to beginning an accelerated program. This test is given by PSI testing center and costs approximately $175 per attempt. The computer testing process is further explained here: https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing

Note: Since this is the first year we're offering this program and time is short, this requirement may be waived, but the knowledge test must be completed prior to taking a checkride per FAA requirements. During the final selection process, priority will be given to those who have already successfully completed the test.

Stage Three

This is the final phase in the selection process. Applicants who have successfully completed the requirements in Stage Two will be invited to interview in person with the selection committee.

Interview

Candidates will interview independently with a selection committee from Star Flight Foundation.

Final Selections

Once final selections are made by the committee, applicants will be notified and the enrollment process started.