scholarships

We are committed to supporting women across all areas of aviation and aerospace by expanding access to education, training, certifications, and professional development opportunities. From pilots and technicians to educators, leaders, and operations professionals, we believe every role plays a vital part in the industry. Our mission is to create meaningful pathways that empower women to grow, advance, and thrive in aviation careers.

A Note on Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We welcome applicants using AI tools to brainstorm or polish their application, but your personal essay should reflect your own voice, experiences and reflections-not a generated narrative. Our reviewers are experienced at recognizing when writing leans too heavily on AI, and essays that lack a genuine personal perspective may be scored lower as a result. This scholarship is about getting to know you, so let your own story come through. Use AI as a tool, not a substitute, for your voice.

Advanced flight training scholarship

The Women in Aviation San Diego Advanced Flight Training Scholarship supports persons pursuing advanced pilot certifications and instructor qualifications that further professional aviation careers.

A total of $8,500 will be awarded to up to three applicants.

The scholarship helps reduce financial barriers for high-cost training programs such as ATP-CTP, CFI, CFII, and MEI certifications.

Awards are granted based on career goals, commitment to aviation, financial need, and readiness for advanced training, with a focus on supporting members connected to the San Diego aviation community.

    • Current WAI Member

    • WAISD Member at time of application

    • Enrolled or accepted into flight training course

    • Flight training conducted in the United States

    • Resume

    • Personal Statement including program and requested amount (800 word max)

    • Government Issued ID

    • Pilot Certificate

    • Medical Certificate

    • Recommendation Letter (2 max)

  • A total of $8,500 in training funds will be awarded.

    This scholarship has been made possible in part through a generous $1,000 contribution from King School.

    The award may be distributed among multiple recipients based on the selection committee's recommendations.

  • September 21, 2026 — 11:59 PM PDT

Apply Here

career Advancement scholarship

The Women in Aviation Career Advancement Scholarship supports individuals pursuing aviation careers outside of pilot training by providing funding for certifications, technical training, education, and professional development opportunities within the aviation industry.

A total of $7,500 will be awarded to up to three applicants.

Eligible programs may include A&P mechanic training, FAA Part 107 certification, flight attendant training, airport operations, aviation-related education, and other approved aviation career development programs.

    • Pursuing aviation or aerospace professional development.

    • Enrolled in or accepted to an eligible program.

    • Demonstrate a commitment to career advancement.

    • Women in Aviation International member

    • WAISD Member at time of application

    • Resume

    • Personal statement (800 word max)

    • Government ID

    • Proof of enrollment or accepted in eligible program

    • Recommendation Letter (1 required, two max)

    • Total of $7,500 will be awarded.

    • Up to three scholarships may be awarded based on applicant qualifications and eligible program costs.

  • September 28th, 2026 — 11:59 PM PDT

Apply Here

Professional development scholarship

The Professional Development Scholarship supports persons pursuing professional courses, certifications, and continuing education that advance careers in the aviation and aerospace industries.

A total of $5,000 will be awarded annually, with multiple scholarships granted based on qualifications and program costs.

Eligible professional development may include college courses, professional certification programs, industry-recognized training, workshops, seminars, conferences, and other structured educational programs that support leadership, management, project management, airport operations, aviation safety, or other aviation-related professional development. Eligible training may be completed as a standalone course or program and does not need to be part of a degree or certificate program.

Questions regarding eligible programs email: scholarship@waisandiego.org

    • Women in Aviation International member

    • WAISD at time of application

    • Pursuing aviation or aerospace professional development.

    • Enrolled in or accepted to an eligible program.

    • Demonstrate a commitment to career advancement.

    • Resume

    • Personal statement (800 word max)

    • Government ID

    • Proof of Enrollment

    • A total of $5,000 will be awarded.

    • Multiple scholarships may be awarded based on applicant qualifications and eligible program costs.

  • September 28th, 2026 — 11:59 PM PDT

Apply Here