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    Willard G. Plentl Sr. Aviation Scholarship Program

    Offered by Virginia Department of Aviation

    Lisa Freedland Reviewed by Lisa FreedlandLast updated Feb 22, 2024
    1 award worth

    $2,500

    Grade level

    High School Senior

    Expected deadline:

    This scholarship might not currently be accepting applications. Most scholarship programs only accept applications a few months ahead of their annual deadline. We’ve estimated this deadline based on last year’s deadline in order to help you plan out your scholarship applications.

    March 2025

    Scholarship Overview

    Are you a college-bound high school senior from Virginia who will be pursuing an aviation career in a non-engineering area? If so, consider applying for the Willard G. Plentl Sr. Aviation Scholarship Program! Each year, the scholarship awards $2,500 to one (1) applicant who submits the best 350-500-word essay on the subject “Why I wish to pursue an aviation career.” In addition to the essay, interested students must submit a certification of acceptance into an aviation-related postsecondary education program, a transcript, recommendation letters, and a sheet listing both school-related and extracurricular activities demonstrating their accomplishments and leadership abilities. Bear in mind that non-engineering aviation careers include (but are not limited to) pilots, aviation maintenance technicians, aviation managers, etc.

    If you’re from Virginia and wish to pursue a non-engineering aviation career, we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more.

    About Virginia Department of Aviation

    The Virginia Department of Aviation is an executive branch agency, reporting to the Virginia Secretary of Transportation, whose creation and powers are contained in Title 5.1 - Aviation. The Virginia Department of Aviation's Mission is to develop, promote, and advance aviation in Virginia for the benefit of all. They do this in partnership with airports and others in Virginia to improve airport facilities, cultivate new technologies, inspire the next generation, and foster economic development.

    Eligibility information

    This scholarship is open to students meeting the below eligibility criteria.

    Grade Level

    High School Senior

    Minimum GPA

    3.5

    Academic Interest

    Aviation/Aerospace

    State

    Virginia

    Application information

    To apply for this scholarship, submit the below application materials before the deadline.

    350-500-word essay

    Proof of enrollment

    Academic transcript

    Resume or CV

    Three letters of recommendation

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    Scholarship FAQ

    Who should I contact with any questions about this scholarship?

    For any questions regarding this scholarship application, please contact Virginia Department of Aviation at [email protected].

    Is this scholarship renewable?

    Yes, the Willard G. Plentl Sr. Aviation Scholarship Program is renewable.

    Where can I find help writing my scholarship essay?

    For help writing the essay component of this scholarship application, check out our guides How to Write a Winning Scholarship Essay and How to Start a Scholarship Essay (With Examples).

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