BWPA Scholarship Application Tips - British Women Pilots' Association

Top Tips for Applying for a 2025 BWPA Scholarship

Are you a woman passionate about aviation and looking for the opportunity to begin or further your flight training?

The British Women Pilots’ Association offers numerous flying scholarships each year, designed to help women achieve their dream of becoming pilots. With a competitive selection process, it’s essential to prepare a standout application. Here are some key tips to help you increase your chances of success when applying for a BWPA Scholarship!

1. Understand the BWPA Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

Before you start your application, it’s important to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. BWPA Scholarships are for women who:

Are aged 17 or over at the time of application, or if aged 16 and under, have the support and permission of a parent or guardian.
Are a current BWPA member. If you haven’t joined the BWPA yet then be sure to allow enough time for your membership to be processed before the application deadline closes!
Are able to conduct their scholarship flying within the UK
Were not a winner of one of the BWPA’s last round of Scholarships (2023)
Have the intention to use the scholarship to further their flying training (it can be for both beginners, those who are already in the process of obtaining a Licence and those who have already gained their first Licence to further their experience or gain another rating).
Demonstrate a strong passion for flying and a commitment to pursuing a career or a serious hobby in aviation.

Make sure to thoroughly read the official application guidelines, as there may be specific exclusions or additional requirements for each year’s scholarships on offer.

2. Prepare a Strong Personal Statement

Your personal statement and particular focused questions are some of the most important parts of your application. This is your opportunity to tell the selection panel why you want to fly, what your goals are, and why you deserve the scholarship.

Here’s what to focus on:

Your passion for aviation: Explain why you are drawn to flying and what excites you about aviation. Share any experiences, even small ones, that sparked your interest.
Your goals: Be clear about how receiving this scholarship would help you further your aviation journey. Whether it’s to get your PPL, complete additional training, or become a commercial pilot, make sure to outline your specific goals.
Why you deserve the scholarship: Show the committee that you are committed, responsible, and ready to take full advantage of the opportunity. Talk about your work ethic, determination, and any previous experiences (even outside of flying) that demonstrate your commitment to reaching your goals.

Keep it concise and impactful, and make sure to check for spelling and grammar errors.

3. Show Your Dedication to Aviation

The BWPA scholarship is looking for applicants who show genuine commitment to pursuing a career or serious hobby in aviation. While prior flying experience is not a strict requirement, you should demonstrate that aviation is something you’re truly passionate about.

Some ways to show your dedication include:

Log any flight hours or flying-related experience, even if it’s only a few introductory lessons.
Involvement in aviation groups or activities: If you’re a member of any flying clubs, organisations, or have attended aviation events, include this in your application. It shows you’re already making an effort to immerse yourself in the world of aviation.
Research and learn about aviation: Being knowledgeable about the aviation industry, notable women in aviation, or even current trends in flight training can reflect your genuine interest in the field.

4. Highlight Transferable Skills and Strengths

While the BWPA scholarship is specifically for women with an interest in flying, showcasing transferable skills can help strengthen your application.

Consider highlighting the following:

Problem-solving abilities: Aviation demands excellent decision-making skills, so any past experiences where you’ve demonstrated your ability to think critically or handle challenging situations will work in your favor.
Communication skills: Effective communication is crucial in aviation, so highlighting how you’ve worked collaboratively or communicated clearly in other contexts will support your application.
Time management: Flight training can be demanding, so showing how you balance your time effectively (whether it’s work, study, or other commitments) will demonstrate your readiness for the challenges of flying.

These types of skills can set you apart as a well-rounded and capable candidate.

5. Provide a Comprehensive and Well-Formatted Application

Carefully follow the instructions provided by the BWPA for submitting your application. An incomplete or improperly formatted application may hinder your chances, no matter how strong the content is. Be sure to:

Submit all required documents: This includes a high-quality, landscape photograph of yourself in an aviation setting. Take the time to pick a good one and make sure it is the correct type and size.
Follow the format and deadlines: Be mindful of word limits and submission date. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered. If you are not already a BWPA member, please allow enough time for your membership to be processed before you can submit your application.
Proofread thoroughly: Double-check for spelling, grammar, and clarity. Having someone else review your application can also be helpful to catch any errors you might have missed.
Don’t waffle on: Many of the questions will have word limits, make your answers punchy and concise.

6. Seek Support from Mentors or Aviation Professionals

If you’re new to flying or need guidance, seeking advice from a mentor or an experienced pilot can help. Many successful applicants for the BWPA Flying Scholarships have benefited from the support of experienced pilots or aviation professionals who guided them through the application process.

Consider reaching out to:

Flying instructors who can provide advice on your training path and what the BWPA looks for.
Members of the BWPA or other aviation organisations who can share their personal experiences and offer tips for your application.
Friends or family who can provide feedback on your personal statement, helping you refine your narrative and highlight your strengths effectively.

7. Prepare for the Interview

If your application is shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview (on Zoom). This is your chance to further impress the selection panel and demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment. Prepare by:

Reviewing your application: Be ready to discuss the details of your personal statement and any experiences or achievements you’ve mentioned.
Reflecting on your goals: Be clear on how you’ll use the scholarship to further your aviation ambitions and how it fits into your long-term goals.
Being yourself: The interview panel is looking for authentic passion and genuine interest in aviation, so be yourself and let your enthusiasm shine through.

8. Stay Positive and Persistent

Remember that applying for a flying scholarship is competitive, and not everyone will be successful on their first attempt. If you don’t receive a BWPA scholarship this year, don’t be discouraged! Continue building your flying experience and apply again in the future.

Persistence and determination are key traits for aspiring pilots, and your journey may just be beginning.

Remember…

Tell your unique story – do not submit a generic, one-size-fits-all application.
Be passionate – communicate about who you are and why you are the best candidate. Help the scholarship panel get to know you, and help them feel your passion.
We cannot extend the deadline, so be sure to submit your application as soon as you can. For new members, please allow time for your membership application to be processed.
Most importantly, if you were to be successful, remember to tell us how you plan to support the BWPA and give back to help support other women in aviation.

FAQs

Who assesses the applications?

A panel, usually made up of three to four people, assesses applications for each scholarship type (Flying High, Flying Start and Special Mission). Once initial scoring has shortlisted the applications, they are then reviewed by a second panel which may include scholarship sponsors, BWPA committee members and those with relevant experience, such as Licence holders and flying instructors.

How are applications assessed?

Set criteria for each question give a score for each answer. The criteria may differ depending on the requirements of each scholarship, but generally cover:

Meeting the eligibility requirements.
A demonstrated passion for aviation, including a commitment to being a good ambassador, and sharing your skills and experience with other women.
A demonstrated desire to develop your flying skills.
A clear plan of what you aim to do and how you would use the scholarship. This should include a realistic idea of time and costs involved and how this would fit alongside other commitments.
A demonstrated desire and commitment to support the BWPA.
A suitable referee (who may be contacted if you are successful).

If you have any questions about our scholarships, please contact us.

Conclusion

BWPA Scholarships are an excellent opportunity for women in the UK who are passionate about flying and ready to take the next step in their aviation journey. By following these tips, you can submit a compelling application that highlights your dedication, enthusiasm, and potential. Stay focused on your goal, and good luck!