Aviation Program Financial Aid and Scholarships

Pursuing an aviation career offers many exciting opportunities, but it’s essential to understand the additional costs associated with the program and develop a plan to finance your education.

Tip: Get your financing in place before bills are posted to avoid last-minute stress.

  1. File your FAFSA

    Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov to be considered for federal, state, and institutional need-based aid.

  2. Complete Financial Aid Requirements

    Complete any outstanding financial aid requirements and review and accept your financial aid offer in WINGS.

    For more information, visit the What You Need To Know page.

  3. Do the Math: Determine your Estimated Cost

    The cost of an aviation degree is higher due to flight training fees.

    Estimate your expenses and subtract your offered financial aid to determine whether the aviation program is a good financial fit.

    Need help estimating costs? Let us help! Call Enrollment Services at 937-775-4000 or email enrollmentservices@wright.edu.

    Enrollment Services is your one-stop location for financial aid, registration, and billing support.

  4. Apply for Additional Financing (Loan Assistance)

    Apply for additional financing as early as possible to cover your remaining costs after financial aid is applied.

    For example, students starting in the fall semester can begin applying for funding as early as March.

    Tip: If you apply for a loan for the entire year, funds are divided evenly across semesters. Since flight lab fees vary by term, consider applying term-by-term if your costs differ. Some private lenders will allow you to apply for one loan with uneven disbursements so that you can borrow only what you need each semester.

    Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan

    The Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students allows credit-worthy parents of dependent undergraduates to borrow for educational expenses. This loan must be repaid by the parent borrower. For details, visit the Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan page.

    Alternative (Private) Student Loan

    Private student loans are offered by banks, credit unions, and private lenders to help cover educational expenses.

    When applying, carefully compare lenders, interest rates, disbursement timelines, and repayment options. For more information, visit the Alternative (Private) Student Loan section of our website.

    To compare Federal Parent Loans and Private Loans, visit the Federal Student Aid Loan FAQ.

  5. Adjust Your Cost of Attendance (COA)

    You are offered financial aid based on a standard cost of attendance. Submit a Cost of Attendance (COA) Adjustment form to include flight lab fees. While this will not increase the grants or scholarships, it will raise your COA, allowing you (or your parent) to borrow additional loan funds to cover flight-related expenses. Please refer to step 4 on applying for additional financing.

  6. Other Financial Aid

    Grants and Institutional Scholarship

    Grants and institutional scholarships will not be adjusted for additional flight lab fees.

    GI Bill and VA Education Benefits

    Aviation program and courses do not qualify for GI Bill® or VA education benefits. For more information, contact the Veteran and Military Center.

  7. Before You Fly: Stay on Track with Your Bill

    • Check your student account every semester.
    • Pay your bill in full by the due date.
    • Apply early for loans or additional financing — approval and processing take time!
    • Unpaid balances may result in cancellation of aviation classes (including flight labs), the business day after the first billing due date for the semester.

    Tip: Get your financing in place before bills are posted to avoid last-minute stress.

    Aviation Scholarships

    Explore aviation-specific scholarship opportunities offered by a variety of organizations to help offset flight expenses.

    Be sure to review eligibility requirements and deadlines carefully.

    Scholarship Tips
    • Confirm eligibility before applying.
    • Double-check all forms and materials for accuracy.
    • Highlight your background, service, and achievements to stand out.
    • Request letters of recommendation early.
    • Follow deadlines carefully—Wright State must receive materials by the billing due date.
    Aviation Scholarship Opportunities