The EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship, established in 2019 and funded by the Ray Foundation, provides up to $12,000 for Private Pilot training, $9,000 for Sport Pilot training, or $6,000 for Glider Pilot training.  The program is managed by EAA and administered through local chapters in the United States and Canada, with annual funding reaching $2.25 million to support over 200 scholars. 

Eligibility and Requirements

• Age: Applicants must be 16–19 years old for powered flight (Private/Sport) or 15–19 years old for glider training at the time of application. 

• Certifications: Candidates must possess an FAA student pilot certificate and, for Private Pilot tracks, a third-class or higher medical certificate. 

• Timeline: Scholars must begin training within 30 days of approval and meet strict milestones: first solo within 3 months, written exam within 6 months, and checkride within 12 months. 

• Service: Recipients are required to volunteer at least 2 hours per month for their local EAA chapter. 

Selection and Support Chapters select candidates based on merit, prioritizing those with a passion for aviation, such as former Young Eagles, active EAA members, or those with prior flight training experience.  Beyond financial aid, the program provides critical mentorship and community support, resulting in an 80–85% success rate for scholars completing their licenses.  Chapters that successfully mentor at least one scholar may apply for a 25/75 matching scholarship, where they contribute 25% of the award to receive additional funding.

Additional information and the Ray Scholarship application may be found at the following link: Ray Aviation Scholarship Fund.