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Learn how VA education benefits might be able to help you pay for flight training to become a pilot. The amount you get depends on which GI Bill version you use. Anyone who qualifies for any of the GI Bill programs can apply unless you're using Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance.
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Flight training

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Find out how your VA education benefits can help pay for flight training to advance your pilot qualifications.

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Can I use the GI Bill to pay for flight training?

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You may be eligible for flight training benefits if you meet all of these requirements.

All of these must be true:

  • You qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill or Montgomery GI Bill, and
  • You have a private pilot’s license, and
  • You have a second-class medical certificate valid for second-class privileges—or a first-class medical certificate if you want to pursue the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate

Note: You can’t qualify for flight training benefits through Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA).

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What benefits can I get?

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This depends on the VA benefit program you use and other factors.

If you use the Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD)

We’ll pay you back for some of the approved fees your flight school charges.

Check the current payment rates for MGIB-AD

Learn about MGIB-AD

If you use the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)

We’ll pay you back for some of the approved fees your flight school charges.

Check the current payment rates for MGIB-SR

Learn about MGIB-SR

If you use the Post-9/11 GI Bill

Your payment depends on 3 factors:

  • Your level of eligibility based on how long you served on active duty after September 10, 2001, and
  • How much entitlement you have left for school or training under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and
  • The program and type of school you’re enrolled in (whether you’re enrolled in a vocational school, or a degree program at a private or public college or university) 

Check the current payment rates for the Post-9/11 GI Bill

Find out if you’re eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill

Check the status of your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits

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What kinds of qualifications can I get through flight training?

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You can get the following qualifications:

  • Rotary wing
  • B747-400
  • Dual engine
  • Flight engineer
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How do I get these benefits?

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You’ll need to apply for benefits.

Apply for education benefits