COPA’s Neil J. Armstrong Ab-Initio Scholarship

Since 1995, the COPA Neil J. Armstrong Scholarship has financially supported the development of young pilots aged between 16 and 21. This longstanding scholarship was created in honour of Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame inductee Neil J. Armstrong. This award comes with a free one-year COPA Student membership.

Applicants are assessed on their demonstrated interest in aviation, community involvement, academic achievements, ability to set and achieve goals, and commitment to completing flight training. A COPA membership is not necessary.

COPA’s Neil J. Armstrong Ab-Initio Scholarship provides up to $14,000 toward eligible training costs associated with obtaining a Private Pilot License (PPL). Details here.

COPA New Wings Scholarship

The COPA New Wings Scholarship helps make flying more accessible and affordable in Canada by providing up to $5,000 towards eligible training costs for an outstanding aspiring pilot, 21 years of age or older, each year.

The scholarship was introduced in 2023 and is generously supported by Diamond Doors. Details here.

COPA Advanced Flight Training Scholarship

The COPA Advanced Flight Training Scholarship promotes Canadian pilot development by providing annual scholarships to student pilots in advanced flight training programs.

Each year up to three recipients are awarded $2,500 to be used for eligible training costs associated with advanced flight training such as a commercial license, various endorsements or ratings for pilots who already have a PPL. Details here.

COPA Drone Pilot Scholarship

COPA believes the sky is for everyone and is committed to supporting safer drone operations. Through the new COPA Drone Pilot Scholarship, three COPA members 18 and older will receive training to obtain their advanced RPAS pilot certificate. The scholarship includes access to RPAS ground school, flight reviews and exam expenses (conditions apply).

Recipients will be chosen based on their involvement and participation in General Aviation activities, events, or organizations. Details here.

Jazz Aviation Pathway Award for Professionalism

Awarded to a full-time student for outstanding contributions to safety, leadership and professionalism. The Award consists of a $3000 scholarship and an opportunity to participate in the Jazz Aviation Pathways Program (Jazz APP) selection process. The award recipient will be selected by the program chair or designate in consultation with Jazz Aviation to ensure the criteria as outlined are respected. Details here.

The Jazz Aviation Pathway Award for Professionalism and Diversity

Awarded to a full-time student; who has self-identified as Aboriginal, a person with a disability, a visible minority or female, for outstanding contributions to safety, leadership and professionalism. The Award consists of a $3000 scholarship and an opportunity to participate in the Jazz Aviation Pathways Program (Jazz APP) selection process. The award recipient will be selected by the program chair or designate in consultation with Jazz Aviation to ensure the criteria as outlined are respected. Details here.

LIFT Scholarship

The LIFT Scholarship was created to assist student pilots. High school students applying to either the Conestoga College Aviation General Arts & Science or to one of the University of Waterloo Aviation programs can apply for entrance scholarships through the respective schools. Students currently in either of these post-secondary programs can browse through the many scholarship and bursary opportunities on the school’s website.

Flying Musicians Association Solo Program

For a high school junior or senior music student in good standing. Student must be nominated by his/her music director. Must be at least 16 years old. Proof of citizenship in country of training. Able to obtain a Cat 3 Aviation medical or equivalent. Parental approval if under age 18. Apply here.