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Veterans and State College - the Perfect Combo for Pilot Training

By Nate Budd


Did you know that both the academic tuition and the cost of flight training are covered by the Veteran's Administration under the GI Bill? This means, if you are a veteran and you want to attend a state college and are eligible for in-state tuition, the full amount of your tuition is paid. Any students that performed active duty after September 10, 2001can actually receive even more funding.

The United States government understands that many veterans have a passion for flying and would love to get the training necessary to make commercial pilot flying their new career path. As part of the post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act, training to become a pilot is now much easier and more affordable. Instead of trying to take out loans and come up with the money on your own, nearly all of your pilot training will be covered by VA benefits.

A career can be scary to start, but if you were in the military, then you have what it takes to be a good pilot. If you have dreamed of a new career after your service to the US, then as a veteran you likely fit what they are looking for. Many commercial pilots are former pilots and the GI bill covers most of your training as a pilot.

As a pilot, start by obtaining a VA certificate of eligibility to help meet the training costs. The VA may not cover all expenses, so you may have to pay for the FAA Knowledge Tests and Practical Tests which can be over $2,000 in amount. If you take more hours, then you have to cover those additional costs. Being reimbursed can take over ninety days over a two year course. The Post 9/11 GI bill can cover $60,000 for the flight training fees.

Veterans that finish a pilot training program have the opportunity to benefit from the growth in the aviation industry that is expected to continue in North America for the next twenty years. Getting a college degree and commercial pilot license is important, but as is the flight hours needed. Typically flight instructors are from fifteen to twenty five an hour per flight. Salaries start at $20k per year. Future pilots have the opportunity to plan ahead and increase with time as well as wages.

If you need more information about using your VA benefits for college, you can contact a representative through the Department of Veterans Affairs.




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