The EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship is a scholarship program that is funded by the Ray Foundation, managed by EAA, and administered through the EAA Chapter network. Through the generous support of the Ray Foundation, EAA provides up to $11,000 to deserving youths to help cover their flight training expenses, totaling $1,800,000 in annual scholarship funding.
EAA chapters apply for a scholarship, and if approved, the chapter then awards the scholarship to a youth or young adult to help them become a pilot. In addition to scholarship funding, the chapter also helps mentor the scholar and supports them on their path to becoming a licensed pilot.
This scholarship is available for candidates 16-19 years old who are pursuing a Private Pilot or Sport Pilot certificate, and for candidates 15-19 years old who are pursuing a Glider Pilot certificate.
Learn more at EAA.org/RayScholarship
Shila W.
The Ray Aviation Scholarship has been an indispensable catalyst in shaping my aviation career, providing me with the tools and support to take those first steps toward my aspirations of flying for an airline. Without the Ray Aviation Scholarship and theunwavering encouragement and guidance from the EAA Mulino chapter 902, my journey in aviation wouldn't have transcended to its current heights. Their belief in my potential and the financial aid provided have enabled me to pursue my dreamsrelentlessly. Today, as I stand on the cusp of realizing my ambitions, I am immensely grateful to have had the honor of being the first selected recipient of the Ray Aviation scholarship in 2019. Now, in 2024, I’m glad to report I've secured a pivotal position in the Alaska/Horizon Development Program, marking a significant milestone in my career trajectory. This program not only signifies the culmination of my training towards obtaining my Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) but also paves the way for me to embark on a fulfilling career in commercial aviation. The Ray Aviation Scholarship and the support from the EAA Mulino chapter have not only transformed my aspirations into reality but have also laid the groundwork for a promising future in aviation.
Gavin.
"The Ray's Aviation Scholarship gave me the opportunity to not only get my pilot license, but also to advance myself for an aviation future. It allowed me to improve my skills and learn from my mistakes in the aviation world. It also introduced me to many new people in the EAA and aviation community. As a high school student at the time with a passion for flight, I am extremely thankful to have received this scholarship.
Brandon.
I began flight training at Lenhardt Airpark shortly after being awarded the Ray Aviation Scholarship in the spring of 2020. I learned a lot during my training, typically flying two or three times a week. After seven months I had earned my Private Pilot License. Since then, I have joined a local flying club and continue to be involved with Chapter 902. The Ray Aviation Scholarship was an incredible experience and Chapter 902 was very helpful and supportive along the way. The confidence I’ve gained through learning to fly has really helped me in all aspects of life. I’m extremely grateful for this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Standing with my instructor after my first solo flight.
Standing next to my examiner’s airplane after earning my Private Pilot License.
Sten.
"The Ray Scholarship opened doors that I never knew were available to me. Growing up, I had an interest in aviation, but it was hard to see how my dreams could actually be made into reality. Getting involved in Chapter 902 changed that, giving me a clear path to my private pilot's license that I'm proud to hold! The members at the monthly meetings were welcoming and supportive of my progress, and the Ray scholarship made a PPL a realistic possibility for me and many others. The amazing community in Mulino as well as the support of the EAA is something any pilot should feel lucky to be a part of."
Luke P.
At 16 when I first started working on my private license, getting the rating was not financially feasible. I had hardly thought about a career in aviation simply because it seemed totally unrealistic. After receiving the Ray Aviation Scholarship I was able to complete my private and realized this was something I could do long-term. Because this first step was taken care of, I am able to pursue higher education in the aviation field, and am currently a student at Walla Walla University working on my commercial license! Without the generous scholarship from EAA, this would’ve been impossible. My endless gratitude goes to chapter 902, and the organization at large.
Devin R.
I have always wanted to be an airline pilot, but it was an unattainable goal for me without financial support. I looked for that support and finally found the Ray Scholarship through EAA chapter 902. The scholarship allowed me to get my private pilot's license and connected me to a group of aviation enthusiasts which really expanded my passion for flying. Because of the scholarship, I am now a step closer to my dream of becoming an airline pilot and I am so excited for the day that I can inspire the love of aviation in others. Thank you to EAA chapter 902 and the Ray Scholarship. I am eternally grateful.
