Foreign Students
PILOT TRAINING FOR FOREIGN STUDENTS
GET YOUR FAA PILOT LICENSE IN THE U.S.
At Pureflight Aviation Training, our expert instructors have extensive experience providing pilot training for international students in the U.S. Whether you’re learning to fly for the first time, building flight hours, or converting a foreign license, we’re here to help you navigate the process confidently.
ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS ON YOUR TIMELINE IS OUR PRIORITY
We’ll work with you to align your training schedule with your availability and visa requirements, while tailoring instruction to your current experience level. Progress through your pilot training for international students in the U.S. with safe and effective training that meets FAA pilot license requirements.
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP TOWARD YOUR FAA LICENSE IN THE U.S.?
Contact us to learn more about available programs, training locations, and what to expect as a foreign student at Pureflight.
FLY AT OREGON’S PREMIER FLIGHT SCHOOL
Our training bases in Newberg and Klamath Falls, Oregon offer an ideal environment to learn to fly, build flight time, and refine your skills. With Pureflight, you’ll gain real-world experience in challenging environments and terrain, and diverse weather conditions.
Here are some of the advantages of earning your FAA pilot license in the U.S:
- Cost: Flight training here is often more affordable than in many other countries, even when travel costs are considered
- Environment: Varied terrain, uncongested airspace, and consistent flying conditions.
- Internationally Recognized Certification: FAA pilot licenses are respected and accepted around the world
- Flexible Training Options: Choose the course and schedule that align with your goals and visa timeline
I successfully obtained my Private Pilot License for helicopters. This incredible achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support and exceptional training I received at your flight school.
I must also extend my deepest gratitude to the CFII team under your wing. Their professionalism, expertise, and support were instrumental in honing my skills and bolstering my confidence.
HOW TO BECOME A PILOT IN THE U.S. AS AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT
All of Pureflight’s airplane and helicopter training programs are available to international students who meet the prerequisite requirements. We offer both Part 61 and Part 141 training, led by instructors experienced in working with foreign students and international training requirements.
The sections below outline each step in the process and explain what to expect. If you’re unsure which steps apply to you, our admissions team can help you plan the right path forward.
FOREIGN LICENSE CONVERSION
If you already hold a pilot license issued outside the United States, you may be able to convert it to an FAA pilot certificate rather than starting from zero. This process allows qualified international pilots to receive an FAA certificate based on their existing credentials. Pureflight’s experienced team will guide you through each requirement so you can focus on preparing for training and any required check rides.
Step 1: Review FAA guidance on foreign license verification
Step 2: Fill out form AC 8060-71.*
Step 3: Submit your forms electronically via IACRA.** Processing typically takes 45–90 days, so do not schedule travel or testing until you receive your FAA verification letter.
Step 4: Once you receive your verification letter, schedule an appointment with a local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) or a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) after arriving in the United States. Bring your completed Airman Certificate Application (FAA Form 8710), a valid FAA medical certificate (at least 3rd Class), and any applicable knowledge test reports. This meeting is not a test; it verifies your documents and identity. Afterward, you’ll receive a temporary FAA airman certificate and may exercise private pilot privileges in the U.S.
* Note that there are additional requirements for applicants from Australia, Cyprus, Ireland, Malaysia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. In addition to the procedures stated under “Verify the Authenticity of a Foreign License, Rating, and Medical Certification” in the link above, airmen from these countries must contact their respective CAA to complete additional forms that are required prior to providing the requested information to the Airmen Certification Branch.
** For applicants from Malaysia, required verification forms must be submitted through the appropriate Malaysian aviation authority rather than sent to the FAA. The FAA Airmen Certification Branch should not receive Malaysian verification forms directly.
Secure an M-1 or F-1 Visa
To train in the United States, international students must obtain an appropriate student visa. Pureflight is authorized by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to support M-1, and F-1 through our partnership with Klamath Community College.
To qualify, you must:
- Be accepted into a USCIS-approved full course of study
- Demonstrate sufficient English proficiency
- Show proof of funding for your training
- Maintain a permanent residence outside the United States
Note: An M-1 visa is valid for one year and requires departure from the U.S. upon completion of training.
Choosing Between M-1 and F-1 Visas
Choosing the right visa depends on your training goals and what you plan to do after completing your program.
- M-1 Visa: Best for students with a defined training timeline who plan to return to their home country after completing flight training.
- F-1 Visa: Ideal for students who want greater flexibility, including the ability to remain in the U.S. longer, build additional flight hours, or pursue approved work opportunities after training.
If you’re unsure which option is right for you, our admissions team can help you evaluate your goals and determine the best path before you apply.
M-1 & F-1 Visa Application / I-20 Information
The F-1 visa application process is handled through Pureflight’s partnership with Klamath Community College, which manages enrollment and issues Form I-20. You may have the option to begin certain coursework online before arriving in the United States.
Application Steps:
Step 1: Contact Pureflight to request an application and indicate whether you are applying for an M-1 or F-1 visa.
Step 2: Once accepted, you’ll receive Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status”.
Step 3: Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee and print out and save your receipt.
Step 4: Schedule a visa interview at your nearest U.S. consulate. Bring your I-20, passport, SEVIS receipt, proof of funding, proof of ties to your home country, and any additional documents required by the consulate. Confirm that the visa issued matches your program (M-1 or F-1).
Step 5: Once your visa is approved, you may enter the United States up to 30 days before the start date listed on your I-20.
OBTAIN APPROVAL FROM THE TSA
Most international students must receive approval through the Flight Training Security Program (FTSP), administered by the Transportation Security Administration, before beginning flight training to become a pilot in the U.S. This is a standard requirement for non-U.S. citizens and is typically completed online in two weeks or less. Some students may be exempt depending on their FAA certificate and course type. Our team can help confirm what applies to you.
ISA APPROVAL PROCESS:
Step 1: Create a user account on the FTSP website.
Step 2: Submit a training request under the Application Guide tab.
Step 3: Wait for Pureflight to acknowledge your request once it is forwarded to us by the TSA.
Step 4: Pay the TSA processing fee.
Step 5: Receive a Preliminary Approval email confirming your application and payment (this does not yet authorize training).
Step 6: Submit fingerprints as instructed by the TSA. In most cases, fingerprinting can be completed after you arrive in the United States, and we’ll help determine the best option for your situation.
PLAN YOUR TRAVEL
Once your training, student visa, and TSA approval are complete, it’s time to plan your arrival in the United States. Pureflight will help coordinate final details to make your transition as smooth as possible, including arranging airport pickup when you arrive. Just share your flight details with our admissions team in advance, and we’ll be there to welcome you when you land.
WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU
When entering the United States, be prepared to present the following documents to immigration officials:
- A Valid passport
- I-20
- I-901 SEVIS fee receipt
- Your student visa (M-1 or F-1, if applicable)
- Any additional documentation supporting the purpose of your visit
Please note that a visa allows you to request entry into the United States, but final admission is determined by officials from U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the port of entry. Once admitted, you will receive an entry stamp or Form I-94 confirming your arrival.
GET STARTED TODAY
After you arrive, you’ll be assigned a flight instructor and can begin your training. Pureflight is happy to assist with housing and transportation arrangements as needed. For additional support, visit our Student Resources page for more information.
Minimum flight experience requirements vary by country, so it’s important to confirm whether your prior training meets U.S. standards or if additional experience is required before a check ride. Our instructors and admissions team can help you review these requirements and plan accordingly.