Scholarships

Aviation Scholarships for Veterans and Students

What is the CloudDancer Scholarship?

The Ashton Johnson Memorial Scholarship offers pilot training scholarships to U.S. military veterans pursuing careers in aviation. We seek applicants who demonstrate honorable service, strong character, and a clear commitment to earning their Private Pilot certification.

The application window for the CloudDancer Scholarship is currently closed. Applications open May 1, 2026 and close 90 days later. Selections will be announced no later than October 1, 2026. We appreciate your interest and encourage you to check back for updates. You can also get involved or make a donation to support our pilot training scholarships.

Total 2026 Scholarship Commitment: $112,500

Aviation Scholarship Award Structures

🛩️

Pilot Scholarship

$17,500 each

Upon Selection

$5,000

First Solo

$5,000

Solo Cross-Country

$5,000

Check Ride Complete

$2,500

5 awards for 2026

🔧

AMT Scholarship

$5,000 each

New for 2026—supporting veterans pursuing Aviation Maintenance Technician certification and careers in technical aviation fields. Through our partnership with the Thrust Institute of Maintenance, AMT recipients who enroll in qualifying programs at Thrust receive an additional $5,000 scholarship, bringing their total award to $10,000.

5 awards for 2026

Eligibility Requirements for Pilots and Mechanics

To ensure the scholarship reaches those who can benefit most, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Military Service

Must be a current active-duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces (including Reserves and National Guard) or an honorably discharged veteran. Proof of service, such as a DD-214 form or active-duty ID, is required.

Educational Pursuit

Applicants must be planning to enroll or already enrolled in an accredited aviation program for pilot training or aviation maintenance, avionics, etc. Preference is given to programs that align with FAA standards.

Academic / Personal Standing

A minimum GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) from previous education or military training equivalencies. First-time students or those with non-traditional backgrounds may submit alternative evidence of aptitude, such as military performance evaluations. In addition, 2 letters of recommendation from a commanding officer or equivalent must be submitted for all applicants.

Residency

Open only to U.S. citizens or permanent residents. There are no geographic restrictions, though priority may be given to applicants in regions with high veteran populations or aviation industry needs.

Personal Essay / Statement

Applicants must demonstrate a passion for aviation and how their military experience aligns with their career goals. Financial need will be considered but is not the sole determinant.

Additional Considerations

The selection committee values merit and is an equal opportunity organization. Applicants are encouraged to highlight any relevant leadership roles, deployments, or aviation exposure during service. Pilots must have taken and passed the PPL written test within the preceding 12 calendar months and hold an FAA Airman Medical valid for First or Second Class privileges at the time of application and selection.

Ineligibility

Ineligibility includes, but is not limited to, individuals with other than honorable discharges, those currently receiving full tuition coverage from other sources (e.g., full GI Bill benefits without demonstrated additional need), and/or incomplete applications.

Important: Please ask any questions before submitting your application. Incomplete or incorrectly submitted applications will be removed from consideration.

Application Process

The application process is designed to be straightforward and accessible, with a focus on efficiency for busy military personnel and veterans. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with awards distributed quarterly.

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

Gather the following materials:

  • Proof of military service (DD-214, active-duty orders, or equivalent)
  • Transcripts or academic records
  • Resume or CV highlighting military and any aviation experience
  • Personal statement (500 words or less) explaining career aspirations, connection to aviation, and how the scholarship will help
  • Two letters of recommendation (one from a military superior or colleague, one from an academic or professional reference)
  • Financial need statement (optional but recommended)
  • Copy of FAA Private Pilot Written completed within the preceding 12 calendar months (minimum score 80%)
  • Copy of current and valid 1st or 2nd Class FAA Airman Medical (valid at the time of application and selection)

Step 2: Submit Online Application

Visit the AJM CloudDancer Scholarship website at www.clouddancerscholarship.org and complete the online form, upload documents, and select if you intend to enroll at the Thrust Institute of Maintenance for the additional award. If you have questions, contact us at applications@clouddancerscholarship.org

Step 3: Review and Interview

Applications are reviewed by a committee comprising aviation experts, veterans, and foundation representatives. Top candidates may be invited for a virtual interview to discuss their goals and fit for the program. Decisions are typically made within 4-6 weeks of the application deadline.

Step 4: Award Notification and Disbursement

Successful applicants will be notified via email and/or phone. Funds are disbursed upon proof of enrollment for AMTs. For Thrust enrollees, the additional $5,000 is coordinated directly with the institute. Pilots are paid upon completion of specific increments in flight training.

Deadlines and Support

Applications open May 1st each year and close 90 days later. Selections are announced no later than October 1st each year. For questions or accommodations (e.g., for disabilities), please reach out to the foundation’s scholarship team.

2027 Applications Opening Soon

Stay Updated

Applications open in Spring. Enter your email to be notified.

    Scholarship Recipients

    Meet Our Prior Scholarship Recipients

    2022 Scholarship Recipients
    • Caitlin Lacomb
    • Alexander Taylor
    • Michael Moore
    • William Francis
    2023 Scholarship Recipients
    • McKinley Ritchie
    • James Halepaska
    • Alex Foster
    • Brett Bowser
    • Mike Neeley
    • Tyler Webb
    2024 Scholarship Recipients
    • Cortez Thomas
    • James Smith
    • Keldon Mort
    • Kouyo Kato
    • Samantha Condor
    2025 Scholarship Recipients
    • Alexander Boone
    • Breanna Scothorn
    • Jamar Ziegler
    • Le Hao
    • Tyler Perkins

    Make a Difference

    Fund a Veteran’s Flight

    Every dollar goes directly toward helping a veteran earn their wings. Choose an amount to see your impact.