Financial scholarships

ISA+21 awards a minimum of two Scholarships of $5,000 each year to be used towards an advanced flight training program.

Prerequisite Information

Applicants must satisfy all of the following requirements:

  • Currently be enrolled in an advanced flight training program; or
  • Have completed ab-initio flight training
  • Must hold an FAA Commercial Pilot License or equivalent
  • In pursuit of a career as an airline pilot
  • Hold a current first class medical certificate

Conditions:

  • Only one Financial Scholarship Award is allowed in a lifetime
  • Applicants may apply as many times as they wish
  • Scholarship funds to be used for advanced flight ratings such as CFI, CFII, and MEI.
  • Funds will only be paid directly to the approved flight training organization.
  • The winner is responsible for travel, housing, and personal expenses during training
  • Training must be completed within the following 12 months
  • Open to female applicants, as indicated on their pilot certificate

Process:

  • Submit required documents by emailing scholarship@isa21.org
  • All applications will be assessed by the Scholarship Committee for eligibility
  • Scholarship entries are due November 1st of each year
  • The scholarship winners are announced in March of each year

Our 2026 Financial Scholarship Recipients

Are you next? 

Kelly H.
Georgia

“When I developed a love for aviation, I never considered becoming a pilot. I had never seen a pilot that looked like me, and I knew that it was expensive. Being a first-generation Asian American, paying for college was daunting enough, let alone paying for flight school; the risk seemed too great.”

Kristin B.
Colorado

“After working in the medical field for a few years, I wanted a change and joined SkyWest Airlines as a crew scheduler. This opened my eyes to the world of aviation! My ultimate goal is to show my son that anything is possible, no matter your age or where you are in life- if you have a desire and work hard, you can do anything!”

Mona C.
California

“As a female and first-generation American from a working-class immigrant family, aviation felt inaccessible- more fantasy than future. But my curiosity never faded. Determined to find my own path, I took an entry-level job in airline customer service at KLAX during college. That role was my first real step into the aviation world, and it opened my eyes to just how essential flight is:”

Alison F.
Scotland

“One of my proudest achievements is creating and leading the Scottish Regional Group for female pilots under the British Women Pilots’ Association (BWPA). I took the initiative to create a community where we could connect, share experiences, and support one another. My ultimate ambition is to become an airline pilot."

Janet K.
Austrailia

“I strive to encourage others to follow their dreams, proving that with dedication and perseverance, age and gender should never be barriers to success in flight. More than just a career, aviation has become a calling—one that offers endless opportunities to serve others, whether by connecting people, responding to emergencies, or supporting underserved communities.”

Kenli P.
California

“My love for aviation extends beyond the flight deck. I’m committed to giving back to this community that has supported me. These organizations have connected me with inspiring mentors and allowed me to mentor other women beginning their aviation journeys. In particular, the camaraderie of ISA+21 is inspiring.”

Ariel M.
New York

Through many trials, setbacks, and sacrifices, I learned to embrace resilience, patience, and discipline. The recognition I’ve received from my recent accomplishments has opened doors to new opportunities for advocacy and mentorship. I began speaking at public schools and community events about the lack of exposure to aviation within minority communities. These experiences encouraged me to continue giving back and being a voice for those who may not see representation in this industry.”

Chelsea S.
United States

“I have balanced motherhood, financial strain, and moments of self-doubt while navigating flight training. One of my proudest milestones came when I earned my private pilot certificate while seven months pregnant with my daughter, Scarlett. I want moms to know that while our path is not the simplest, it is absolutely possible.”