Aviation Studies Abroad 2025 + Scholarships and GPA

Aviation Studies Abroad

The field of aviation is one of the most lucrative career paths worldwide. To study at the best aviation universities in the world, you will need an IELTS score of at least 6, a high school diploma, good physical condition, and sufficient financial resources.

It is important to note that the average cost of a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) course in Europe ranges from $21,582 to $64,746 while studying aviation in the United States can cost over $100,000. However, pilots’ annual incomes abroad are high, with pilots in Germany earning an average of $112,636 per year. For more information about this topic and aviation scholarships abroad, continue reading this article on the Elm Vira website.

Conditions for Studying Aviation Abroad

In recent years, the field of aviation has gained popularity due to several factors such as diverse job opportunities, the potential for high income, access to excellent facilities, and the ability to work globally once the required certifications are obtained. The qualities needed to study at the best aviation universities globally and become a successful pilot include not only completing flight training but also acquiring special personal skills, which are listed below:

• Passion
• Self-discipline
• Technical aptitude
• Problem-solving skills
• Teamwork and excellent communication skills
• Aerospace Knowledge
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure
• Strong understanding of math and physics

It is essential to familiarize yourself with the various aviation degree levels, the requirements for the best countries and universities offering aviation courses, the cost of aviation education, and how to apply for admission before pursuing aviation studies abroad. The details of each of these aspects are covered in the rest of this article.

Aviation-Related Majors Abroad

Like other fields, aviation offers various specializations. The aviation industry and piloting profession have different branches, which are outlined below:

• Aviation
• Aviation Science
• Aerospace Engineering
• Air Traffic Management
• Aviation Management
• Aircraft Maintenance
• Aircraft Mechanics
• Airport Security Management
• Airport Operations
• Airline Management
• Meteorology
• Human Factors and Aviation Safety

Aviation Degree Programs Abroad

In addition to bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in universities, aviation courses are also available as short-term training programs abroad. Attending an aviation school prepares graduates for various roles in the industry, including working as a commercial pilot, aircraft and engine design, or in public or private aviation laboratories.

Aviation programs cover subjects like flight training, meteorology, aircraft maintenance, aerodynamics, aviation law, and safety. Below are some of the most popular aviation-related courses offered at top aviation universities globally:

1. Private Pilot License (PPL)

Private pilots typically operate single-engine aircraft for personal or recreational purposes. To earn this certification, a minimum of 40 hours of flight experience is required. It is important to note that with a Private Pilot License (PPL), you cannot earn income from flying.

2. Aviation Degree Abroad; ATP Certificate (Airline Transport Pilot)

This certification is awarded to pilots who are at least 23 years old and have accumulated a minimum of 1,500 hours of recorded flight time. It allows you to operate a commercial airline aircraft. This certificate is the highest level of piloting qualification, granting you the basic eligibility to be hired by most airlines. Note that the ATP certificate and ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) are the same, with the term ATP used in the United States and ATPL used in other countries.

1. Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

To obtain a Commercial Pilot License, you need a minimum of 250 flight hours, including 100 hours as a pilot-in-command. This certification will allow you to operate a commercial aircraft and earn income from flying.

1. Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

After completing their studies in aviation abroad, experienced pilots must obtain a CFI certificate to teach aspiring pilots. To earn this certificate, you need a minimum of 250 flight hours and additional requirements based on the type of aircraft you will be instructing on.

1. Glider Pilot License (GPL)

The GPL allows you to fly glider aircraft. To receive this certification, you must hold a Private Pilot License (PPL) and an ATP. The training involves 6 hours of practical instruction and 150 hours of theoretical learning.

Application Process for Studying Aviation Abroad

The application and migration process for studying aviation abroad is not uniform, as it depends on the destination country and the institution offering the program. However, the general steps for applying are as follows:

1. Choose your destination country.
2. Select the aviation academy or university and review the admission requirements.
3. Submit the required documents for admission to the relevant institution.
4. Wait for the positive admission response from the institution.
5. Apply for a student visa for the chosen country.
6. Travel to your destination country and begin your training program.

Required Documents for Studying Aviation in the Best Flight Schools Worldwide

To study aviation abroad, each country or educational institution may require different documents. However, the following are common documents requested by most universities and flight academies for students wishing to pursue aviation:

• High School Diploma (A diploma from any field is typically acceptable.)
• Medical Certificate (Most universities and flight academies require a comprehensive medical certificate before beginning the training program to confirm physical fitness.)
• English Language Proficiency (A minimum score of 6 in the IELTS exam.)
• Age (Usually between 18 and 55 years old.)
• Proof of Financial Capability (To demonstrate the ability to cover tuition fees and living expenses in the destination country during the course.)
• Academic Records (Suitable high school records in some cases.)
• Physical Health
  • 20/20 Vision (distance vision) and 20/40 Near Vision (near vision).
  • Ability to Hear (the ability to hear a conversation at a distance of six feet (2 meters) with both ears).
  • Normal Blood Pressure.
  • No History of Conditions that could cause dizziness, balance loss, or speech problems.

Top Countries for Studying Aviation Abroad

Generally, there are many options available worldwide for studying aviation. Below are some of the most popular countries among Iranian students eager to study in the best flight schools:

• Canada
• Italy
• Turkey
• USA
• UK
• Greece
• Philippines
• Spain
• Russia
• China

1. Aviation Studies in Russia

Aviation studies in Russia have gained significant popularity, with many aviation universities in the country enrolling numerous international students every academic year. As Russia shares a border with Iran, it offers convenient access for Iranian students. Additionally, many Russian universities are equipped with advanced training facilities, and some even offer courses in English. The cost of studying in Russia is also relatively affordable compared to many European countries.

These advantages have led many Iranians to choose Russia as their destination for aviation studies. Students who pursue aviation in Russia benefit from several advantages, including:

• Graduating with an international certification, allowing them to work worldwide.
• Opportunities for scholarships to support their studies.
• The vast and favorable climate of Russia, provides an enjoyable flying experience without fatigue.
• Quick integration into the job market after graduation.
• Opportunities to work in both domestic and international tours after retirement.
• Acquiring the necessary skills and expertise in aerospace during their studies.

Furthermore, Russia boasts various institutions and universities specializing in aviation and aeronautics, each offering unique benefits. Some of the most reputable universities for aviation studies in Russia include:

• Saint Petersburg State University of Civil Aviation
• Moscow State Aviation University
• Lyapidosky Aviation University
• Sasovsky Aviation University
• Krasnoyarsk Aviation University
• General Bogayev Aviation University

2. Aviation Studies Abroad: Studying Aviation in Turkey

Due to Turkey’s geographical proximity to Iran, it can be an ideal option for studying aviation abroad. Aviation and aeronautics programs in Turkey are typically offered as 4-year undergraduate degrees. In some cases, applicants may be required to take entrance exams such as the SAT or YÖS. While proficiency in Turkish is often necessary for working in aviation in Turkey, many universities, such as the American University of Kyrenia and Okan University, offer programs in English as well.

One of the key benefits of studying aviation in Turkey is the ease of obtaining a student visa. Due to its close location to Iran, students studying in Turkey can easily travel back and forth. Another major advantage is the high reputation of Turkish universities and the quality of education they provide. Some of the best aviation universities in Turkey include:

• Özyeğin University
• Bahçeşehir University
• Nişantaşı University
• Atılım University

3. Studying Aviation in China

With over 2,000 universities and more than 7 million graduates each year, China has the largest university network and the highest number of graduates in the world. One of the advantages of studying aviation in China is the significant investment the Chinese government makes in international students. Financial support is a crucial factor for many students when choosing where to study abroad, and the Chinese government offers a wide range of financial opportunities to attract international students. Additionally, China’s universities have consistently improved their rankings in global university rankings.

High-quality education, the availability of programs in English, beautiful natural landscapes, safety, a warm welcome for international students, affordable living costs, and the opportunity to work while studying are other reasons why studying aviation in China is an attractive option. Some of the top aviation universities in China include:

• Nanchang Hangkong University
• Hunan Normal University
• Harbin Engineering University
• Beihang University
• Zhejiang University
• Northwestern Polytechnical University
• Harbin Institute of Technology
• Shenyang Aerospace University
• Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Best Aviation Universities Worldwide

As mentioned earlier, aviation programs are offered by numerous universities and flight academies around the world. Here are some of the top colleges and aviation universities for those interested in studying aviation abroad:

• Ohio State University Aviation College (USA)
• Singapore Flying College (Singapore)
• CTC Aviation Academy (UK)
• Moncton Flight College (Canada)
• Barcelona Flight School (Spain)
• St. Petersburg State University of Modern Aviation (Russia)

Cost of Studying Aviation Abroad

Aviation is considered one of the most expensive fields of study worldwide. The cost of studying aviation abroad depends on various factors such as the university or academy offering the program, the length of the program, the country of study, and more. However, it’s important to note that the cost of aviation education is generally higher compared to other fields of study.

In Europe, the cost of flight training varies depending on the type of aircraft and the institution. For a Private Pilot License (PPL) program, the cost can range from $10,791 to $32,373. The cost for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) program in Europe ranges from $21,582 to $64,746. Studying aviation in countries like the USA can cost even more, with expenses potentially exceeding $100,000.

Therefore, as an international student, you should be prepared for relatively high costs when studying at top aviation universities worldwide. It’s also worth mentioning that this field of study is rarely offered for free or with full scholarships.

Aviation Scholarships Abroad

Studying with a scholarship is one of the most attractive options for international students. However, due to the high costs of aviation programs, full scholarships are typically not available for international students. That said, there are still opportunities for partial scholarships.

Generally, aviation scholarships are offered to local students for careers in the military and national aviation industries, while international scholarships aim to encourage students to study in the field. Consequently, international students wishing to study at the best aviation universities worldwide will still be required to cover a significant portion of their tuition fees.

Here are some of the aviation scholarships available:

• British Microlight Aircraft Association (BMAA)
• Light Aircraft Association (LAA)
• Women in Aviation International (WAI)
• Norwegian Flight Academy Full-Fund Scholarship (PFA)

These scholarships are primarily aimed at encouraging students to pursue careers in aviation and aviation-related fields.

Income and Job Conditions After Studying Aviation Abroad

In general, deciding to become a pilot is a transformative step toward an exciting and valuable profession. Airline pilots typically earn good salaries, enjoy travel benefits, and have healthcare perks, with the bonus of meeting new people daily. After completing training and obtaining the necessary licenses, pilots can work in their country of study or any country offering them a job opportunity.

Pilots can work in various roles, including flight instructor, commercial pilot, flight transport pilot, and military pilot, all of which provide salaries above the average income in society. Below is a comparison of the average annual salaries for pilots in several leading countries:

• USA: $97,119
• Canada: $46,418
• UK: $77,208
• Spain: $66,429
• Italy: $83,036
• Germany: $112,636

Conclusion

In this article from Elm Vira, we explored the conditions for studying aviation abroad. As mentioned, due to various reasons such as high income and excellent job prospects, many individuals from Iran pursue aviation studies at the best aviation universities worldwide. However, it should be noted that aviation scholarships are rare, and students must have sufficient financial means to study this field.

When it comes to training to become a pilot, all the schools and countries mentioned above are excellent locations for these programs. If you are interested in studying aviation abroad, feel free to contact our experts at Elm Vira Immigration Institute for further details. For more information on studying abroad and free consultations, please visit our advisory section.