Commemorative Air Force Scholarships
National and regional scholarships for private-pilot training, aviation college study, A&P certification, and youth aviation camps.
- Award
- Up to $12,000 or $15,000 for listed pilot awards; other awards vary
- Deadline
- Deadlines vary by national and regional program
- Best for
- Young pilots, aviation students, future mechanics, and students attending eligible aviation camps
- Geographic eligibility
- United States; national and selected regional opportunities
- Number of awards
- Multiple national and regional programs
- Total program funding
- National pilot program launched with a $300,000 core fund
- Membership
- CAF unit, cadet, or regional affiliation requirements vary by award
- Application cycle
- Annual and program-specific
FlightSchoolList summarizes the program for planning. The sponsor's current rules and application always control.
View official applicationAbout this opportunity
The Commemorative Air Force combines a national youth pilot scholarship with education awards operated by individual wings and partner foundations. Together, these programs support private-pilot training, aircraft-maintenance preparation, aviation-related college education, and hands-on youth aviation experiences.
Who can apply
Eligibility depends on the selected program. The national CAF Pilot Scholarship serves qualified youths ages 16 to 19 through participating units; regional programs may require CAF cadet status, state residence, college enrollment, an accredited A&P program, or other local qualifications.
What the award may cover
CAF's portfolio includes private-pilot training, aviation-related college study, A&P certification support, and full or partial aviation-camp tuition. The national pilot award provides up to $12,000; a California regional PPL award lists support up to $15,000.
How to apply
Start on the CAF scholarship directory, choose the national or regional opportunity that matches your location and training goal, and follow that program's unit nomination or application instructions.
- Verify the current deadline and every eligibility requirement.
- Confirm how funds are paid and when they must be used.
- Prepare transcripts, certificates, logbook totals, references, and essays early.
- Save the confirmation and a complete copy of your submission.
Selection and application notes
National and local CAF programs select candidates under separate rules, typically considering aviation commitment, readiness, youth-program participation, recommendations, and ability to complete the funded training.
Planning tip: Check both the national award and nearby CAF wing opportunities. Some programs rely on a participating unit to identify and mentor the scholar, so contact the unit well before the application deadline.