Minimum TOEFL iBT® Score Required for Pilot Training in USA
" Get detailed information about the minimum TOEFL score required for pilot training in the USA, including universities and scholarships for international students."
Key Highlights
Pilot training in the USA offers exciting opportunities for aspiring pilots. For international students, a minimum TOEFL score of 79 is required for admission to flight training programmes. The score may vary depending on the university, but this is the general benchmark. Along with TOEFL iBT® there are other admission requirements, such as age, educational background, and medical certificates. Let’s explore the top universities and scholarships available for international students pursuing pilot training in USA.
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Minimum TOEFL Score Required for Pilot Training in USA
Here are the minimum TOEFL score requirements for pilot training in the USA. Ensure you meet these section-wise scores to qualify for aviation programmes:
TOEFL Section |
Score |
Overall Score |
78 |
Reading |
20 |
Listening |
19 |
Speaking |
20 |
Writing |
19 |
Check Out: TOEFL iBT® Score Requirement for USA Study Visa
Top Universities in USA for Pilot Training with TOEFL Requirements
Here are the leading universities in USA for pilot training, along with their minimum TOEFL score requirements to help you achieve your aviation dreams:
Top Universities in USA for Pilot Training |
TOEFL iBT® Score Requirement |
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University |
79 |
University of North Dakota |
76 |
Western Michigan University |
91 |
Florida Institute of Technology |
80 |
Parks College of Engineering, Aviation and Technology |
80 |
Hesston College |
65 |
John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences |
79 |
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University |
79 |
Check Out: MS Colleges & Universities Abroad Accepting TOEFL iBT® Scores in 2025
Pilot Training Requirements for International Students in USA
Here are the key requirements for international students seeking to pursue pilot training in the USA, ensuring a smooth path to your aviation career:
Requirement |
Details |
Age |
Minimum 18 years old. Some programs allow enrollment at 17 but require students to be 18 for solo flights. |
Citizenship |
U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident, or possess a valid M-1 (Student) Visa for international students. |
Education |
High school diploma or GED equivalent. Some schools may prefer candidates with strong math and physics skills. |
Medical Certification |
Obtain at least a 3rd Class FAA medical certificate, with higher-tier medical certifications (2nd or 1st Class) required for advanced career pathways. |
English Proficiency |
Demonstrate English fluency as per FAA standards for communication. For non-native speakers, TOEFL or equivalent scores may be required. |
Background Check |
Pass TSA clearance for international students, along with background checks covering security and substance screenings. |
Driver's License |
Valid U.S. driver's license is often required as proof of identity and experience in operating vehicles. |
Physical Fitness |
Meet specific height (usually 5'2"–6'5") and weight (90–250 lbs) restrictions. Must be physically fit for operating aircraft. |
Mathematical Ability |
Proficiency in basic algebra and trigonometry for navigation and calculations related to flying. |
Vision Requirements |
Must have 20/20 vision or correctable to 20/20 with glasses or contact lenses. Color blindness tests may also apply. |
Aptitude Test |
Many schools require an initial pilot aptitude test to assess skills in problem-solving, multitasking, and hand-eye coordination. |
Training Costs |
Demonstrate financial capability to cover training fees, ranging from $50,000 to $100,000, depending on the program. Scholarships or loan options may be available. |
Proof of Identity |
Submit valid identification documents, such as a passport, for both domestic and international students. |
Commitment Agreement |
Some flight schools may require students to sign agreements regarding attendance, conduct, and program completion timelines. |
Experience (Optional) |
Previous flight experience or knowledge of aviation is beneficial but not mandatory for most entry-level programs. |
Check Out: List of Universities in USA Accepting TOEFL iBT® Scores Between 90 -100
Scholarships for International Students Pursuing Pilot Training in USA
Here are some valuable scholarships for international students pursuing pilot training in the USA. These scholarships can help reduce the financial burden associated with your aviation education:
Scholarship Name |
Award Amount (USD) |
Award Amount (INR) |
Eligibility Criteria |
Application Deadline |
AOPA Flight Training Scholarships |
10,000 |
864,200 |
High school students aged 16-18 aiming for a private pilot certificate. Additional criteria apply. |
Varies annually; refer to the official website for updates. |
Pilot International Scholarships |
Up to 1,000 for full-time students; up to 500 for part-time students |
Up to 86,420 for full-time; up to 43,210 for part-time |
Students pursuing careers related to Pilot International's mission, including aviation. |
March 17, 2025 |
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Charities Scholarship |
Varies; collectively over 100,000 awarded annually |
Varies; collectively over 8,642,000 awarded annually |
Students and professionals pursuing aviation-related studies. Specific criteria vary per scholarship. |
Varies; refer to the official NBAA website for specific deadlines. |
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Post-Secondary Scholarships |
Varies; amounts determined annually |
Varies; amounts determined annually |
Current and incoming students enrolled in aviation-related post-secondary education. |
Applications typically open in the fall; check the EAA website for exact dates. |
Aerocadet Partial Flight Training Scholarships |
500 - 5,000 |
43,210 - 432,100 |
High-performing students with excellent grades and significant community involvement. |
Varies; consult the Aerocadet website for application periods. |
I hope this blog has clarified the minimum TOEFL score requirements for pilot training in the USA. Meeting the 79 score benchmark is essential for admission, alongside other key criteria. With the right preparation and resources, international students can successfully pursue their aviation goals in the USA.
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