In order to qualify, you must have a private pilots license and valid medical certification before beginning training. Payments are issued after the training is completed and the school submits information to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Have you always dreamed of becoming a pilot and soaring high in the wild blue yonder? If so you may be able to use your GI Bill benefits to pay for flight school and turn your aviation dreams into reality.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using your GI Bill entitlement for flight training, from eligibility requirements to the application process.
GI Bill Programs That Cover Flight Training
The two main GI Bill programs that offer flight school benefits are
- Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) – For active duty and drilling reservists
- Post-9/11 GI Bill – For those who served after Sept. 10, 2001
Both programs provide financial assistance for flight training, but Post-9/11 tends to be more generous in most cases.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for GI Bill flight training benefits, you must:
- Have a private pilot’s license
- Hold a current medical certificate (2nd class or 1st class for ATP)
- Have unused GI Bill entitlement
Note that spouses and dependents cannot use transferred benefits for flight training
Types of Flight Training Covered
Some approved training includes:
- Fixed wing qualifications
- Rotary wing qualifications
- Multi-engine ratings
- Instrument training
- Commercial pilot licensing
GI Bill can cover the fees for flight lessons, instructor time, simulator training, ground school, exams, and more.
GI Bill Flight Benefits: MGIB vs Post-9/11
Under MGIB, VA reimburses 60% of approved flight training costs.
With Post-9/11, benefits vary based on your eligibility tier, chosen program, and school type. Those enrolled in flight degrees at public schools get the highest coverage.
Always compare both programs to see which offers you the best deal.
How to Apply and Use Benefits
First, apply for GI Bill benefits online through VA.gov if you haven’t already.
Next, get accepted to an approved flight school and enroll in their flight training program.
The school will code your enrollment properly so VA pays them directly for tuition and fees.
You may need to pay upfront costs first and get reimbursed. Keep all receipts!
Finding VA-Approved Flight Schools
Many major flight schools across the country accept the GI Bill, including:
- ATP Flight School
- Upper Limit Aviation
- Liberty University School of Aeronautics
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Compare programs and GI Bill policies before choosing a school.
Maximizing Your Flight Training Benefits
To take full advantage of GI Bill flight benefits:
- Use all your monthly housing allowance for living expenses
- Complete ground school first to conserve entitlement
- Take advantage of yellow ribbon programs for extra funding
- Consider tuition assistance if you’re on active duty
Counting Flight Hours Toward Airline Careers
Your GI Bill flight hours can count towards the 1,500 hours most airlines want to see.
Joining the military as a pilot also helps fast track civilian aviation careers.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of GI Bill Flight Training
Pros:
- Free pilot licenses and ratings
- Monthly stipends for living expenses
- Post-9/11 pays full public school tuition
Cons:
- MGIB only covers 60% of costs
- Benefits limited by entitlement caps
- Must be used carefully to avoid running out
Overall, the GI Bill provides an excellent opportunity for eligible veterans to earn their wings and launch aviation careers.
Alternative Options If GI Bill Won’t Cover All Training
If your benefits won’t cover all expected flight costs:
- Apply for scholarships from aviation organizations
- Look into employee tuition reimbursement
- Seek VA student loans to fill gaps
- Use federal financial aid if enrolled in a degree program
- Save up to help defray uncovered expenses
With proper planning, you can find ways to fund flight training even if GI Bill falls short.
The GI Bill offers a powerful resource to pay for flight lessons, ratings, and licensing needed to take your aviation dreams sky high.
Just be sure to understand the eligibility rules, compare your options, choose a solid flight school, and maximize your benefits.
And remember – the application process takes some time, so start early! With the right preparation, your GI Bill can truly help you earn your wings. Clear skies ahead!
Flight Training Using the Montgomery GI Bill
If you are training under the Montgomery GI Bill, the VA will reimburse you for 60% of the approved charges.
NOTE: Flight training is not available under the Dependents Education Assistance program.
Flight Training Using the Post-9/11 GI Bill
Payment for flight training under the Post-9/11 GI Bill varies depending on the type of flight training you are enrolled in:
- If you are enrolled in a degree program that consists of flight training at a public institution of higher learning, you can be reimbursed up to the resident in-state cost of the training.
- If you are enrolled in a degree program that consists of flight training at a private institution of higher learning, you can be reimbursed up to the full cost of the training or $28,937.09 for the 2024-2025 academic year, whichever is less. An academic year is from Aug. 1 to July 31.
- If you are enrolled in a type of vocational flight training, you can be reimbursed up to the full cost of training or $16,535.46 for the 2024-2025 academic year, whichever is less.
How to Use Your GI Bill to Pay for Flight School
FAQ
Can GI Bill be used for pilot school?
The GI Bill® can help you pay for training programs that lead to important certifications, like a commercial pilot’s license or a flight instructor certification. This is true whether you want to become a private pilot or an airline pilot.
Will VR&E pay for pilot training?
You can use your VR if you have a disability rating of 2020 or more. Once you’ve received your disability rating, you can apply for VR&E through the VA.
How do most people pay for flight school?
Private student loans for flight training are the most common financing option. Private lenders like offer aviation loans specifically designed for pilot training. These loans often have varying interest rates based on the student’s credit score.
Does GI Bill pay for flight training?
Depending on your GI Bill program, you can expect different levels of reimbursement for your flight training: Montgomery GI Bill or REAP: Under these programs, the Department of Veterans Affairs will reimburse approved flight school students for up to 60% of the approved fees they owe the school for their training.
Can I use my GI Bill for flight school?
As a military veteran, you can use your GI Bill benefits to pursue flight training. This guide will show you the steps you need to take to get your GI Bill and pay for flight school. 1. Determine your GI Bill program. 2. Obtain a statement of benefits. 3. Check flight school eligibility. 4. Have a private pilot’s license. 5.
Does Montgomery GI Bill pay for flight training?
The highest amount that can be paid for flight training benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill is 200% of the approved charges. VA is filed upon completion electronically, if all documents are in order. VA pays the school directly and refund is processed (normally within two weeks).
Can I use GI Bill benefits for vocational flight training?
The GI Bill can help you pay for vocational flight training or a bachelor’s degree program at a college that has an aviation program. If you do decide to go to a vocational flight school, make sure it is an FAA Part 141 approved school.
Does GI Bill cover pilot training?
When it comes to pilot training, it can be hard to figure out how to get Veterans’ Benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. To begin, your Chapter 30 GI Bill benefits do not cover any costs at any flight school for your private pilot license, which is the first step toward becoming a helicopter pilot.
Can GI Bill funds be used to get a pilot’s license?
As we already said, GI Bill funds can’t be used to get your first pilot’s license. However, they can be used to get training in the following areas, depending on the school, the program, its accreditation, and other factors: Bachelor’s degree program at a college with an aviation program FAA Part 141 certified schools.
