If you are a student living outside the United States and you want to attend a flight school in the United States, you need to follow this guideline. The steps below are an example of how you should prepare to attend a flight training school in the United States. Check with your flight school of choice for further details.

Step One

Flight School applications in the United States require copies of each of the following:
  • Passport
  • Evidence of funds in English. The funds must be in USD
  • School transcripts or diploma, depending on flight training school of your choice

Step Two

  • You must complete a TSA background investigation request form.
  • There is a fee of $130 USD for the service payable by credit card.
  • Please visit TSA website (You will need to create a login as a new user)

Step Three

Schedule a physical exam for an FAA medical (1st class) from a doctor authorized to give this exam. To locate a doctor in your area, visit this website:

Step Four

Schedule an appointment with the U.S. Embassy in your country for the visa interview. You must allow at least two weeks after your TSA background investigation request form to process and for your FAA medical to be authorized. The current wait time for an M-1 visa to be processed will depend on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Visit US Embassy website to locate an U.S. Embassy nearest you.

Step Five

You must prove English language proficiency prior to your embassy visit. There are written exams and an online version. There is a fee to take the exam. To register online and take the exam, visit ETS website.

Learn as much as you can before you go to flight school. While you are waiting to be approved, you can familiarize yourself about flying by joining an "Aero Club" or a similar organization in your area. Aero Clubs promote aviation and often have social events. Sometimes they are associated with commercial airline or military flying in the area. See if there are any organizations located in your area and if there are any events you could attend. Perhaps you could volunteer to help with one of the events. This can provide a way to get to know pilots and aviation supporters and perhaps learn of other ways to get involved in aviation. Sometimes these groups offer scholarships and grants, too.

There are national groups like the Federation Aeronautique International (FAI) in many countries and these often have strong ties to aero clubs. If you are outside the U.S. see if your country has a national affiliate – please visit Federation Aeronautique International website.