International Student FAQ
Which program is right for me?
This depends on your goal. We offer almost every type of training, from initial through advanced ratings, to commercial single and multi engine, which will prepare you for a career in aviation. Click here for a list of our programs, their costs, hours, and timelines. If you have any questions about our programs, don’t hesitate to ask us.
How long does each program take?
Students progress at different rates. However, when pursuing your training full-time and flying five or more days a week, the ranges for completing each course are 4 - 8 weeks for Private Pilot, 4 - 8 weeks for Instrument Rating, 1 - 2 weeks for Multi-Engine, and 2 - 10 weeks for Commercial (2 if you already have the required hours, 10 if you need to include time-building).
What are the requirements to train in the U.S. at Slipstream Aviation?
You must be 18 years of age, hold a current passport, get a M-1 student visa, and have approval from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Also, to be a student pilot, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires you to pass an FAA medical examination. You can do this upon arrival in Dallas, and we can provide you with physician recommendations. However, please review the health requirements and medical eligibility information in the links below to ensure that you will be able to pass the examination and receive your medical certificate.
- A Third-Class Airmen Medical Certificate is the minimum requirement for flight training, and will cost approximately $75. (Click here for eligibility for passing this physical examination).
- However, if you intend to be a commercial pilot, a First-Class Airmen Medical Certificate is recommended, and will cost approximately $125. (Click here for eligibility for passing this physical examination).
How do I apply?
Contact us for our flight training application. Along with the application, we will send you a detailed checklist with links to all applications needed to obtain your M-1 student visa. (You can read about applying for the M-1 visa here.)
What fees are involved?
Our application fee is $300 (or $375 for expedited I-20 shipping). Other fees involved in getting your visa include the SEVIS I-901 fee ($200), the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application fee ($140), and the TSA background check fee ($130). These and any other applicable fees would be paid directly to the agency involved.
Do I need a visa to train in the U.S.?
Please confirm whether or not you need to apply for a visa with your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are planning to travel to the U.S. on a B visa (for business or tourism), you are allowed to complete a course of study while in the U.S. as long as you do not spend more than 18 hours a week on the course.
How long does the application process take?
Once we receive your application, we will schedule an interview (via Skype), and then will be able to process your I-20 form within one week. After you receive the I-20 from us, you can then complete the other forms (SEVIS I-901 and DS-160), and pay the associated fees. Once these steps are completed, you should schedule your visa interview at your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Depending on the country and time of year, you may receive an interview date soon (within days), or the interviewer may not have availability for 3-4 weeks.
So plan ahead! The summer months before the start of fall semesters are the busiest months for Embassies and Consulates, and you might have trouble getting an appointment during those months. Your visa can be issued 120 days or less in advance of your class start date. If you apply more than 120 days in advance, your application will be held until the 120-day mark.
How do I find my local U.S. Embassy or Consulate?
Use this link to look up your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. To get your visa, you will be required to have an interview with the consulate (and provide documentation supporting your application).
The most important questions they’ll ask during the interview are: Why would you like to become a pilot? What assurance can you give us that you will return to your home country after completion of your flight training? How do you know that you can obtain a position as a pilot after returning home? (if applicable)
Will you help me with the application processes?
Yes, we will be glad to help you through this process. Our website is designed to make this process as simple as possible and includes detailed instructions and additional, helpful links. Please email us if you have additional questions.
Will it be difficult to contact you as you do not have offices in my country?
Due to time zone differences, it may be easiest to reach us via email. If you would like to schedule an appointment to talk, please email us to set up an appointment to connect via Skype.
Is personal insurance included?
Personal insurance is not included in our pricing. We recommend that you purchase medical insurance for your stay in the U.S., as care in the U.S. can be expensive. We also recommend that you purchase travel insurance for your trip to and from the U.S.
What happens if there is an incident or accident?
All aircraft are insured. If an incident or accident occurs when a Slipstream flight instructor is on board, we pay the insurance deductible. If it occurs when you are the pilot in command and the incident or accident is your fault, you will pay $3,000 if you are in a single engine, or $5,000 if it is a multi engine, to cover our insurance deductible. You can get renter’s insurance to cover this amount from AOPA. Our insurance policy covers you for up to $1,000,000 worth of liability. If you would like to carry higher liability limits, that can be purchased as part of a renter’s insurance policy from AOPA.
What clothing should I bring with me?
Our summers are warm in Texas, so light, breathable clothes, sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are recommended. Winters can be cold (but not usually freezing) with very brief periods of snow or ice. The winds can also be quite strong in the winter so wind-breaking jackets, gloves, and hats are advisable.
When can I plan to arrive in the USA?
Please plan to arrive at least 5 days before your confirmed course start date. (You cannot arrive in the U.S. more than 30 days before your study start date.)
Do I pay everything up front?
No, you pay in installments. Your first installment ($5,000) will be due before you depart for the U.S., when you receive final confirmation of your class start date. (Late payment of the first installment may affect your class start date.) Your second installment will be due one week after classes start. The amount will depend on your training program. Any additional payment installments will be due monthly, or as frequently as needed to keep your minimum account balance above $2,000.
Can I change schools if I am not happy with Slipstream Aviation?
You definitely have the freedom to change schools if you are not happy. We will do everything in our power to make you a happy and successful pilot, but you are not committed to stick with us. The only non-refundable payments to us are the application fee when you begin the process with us, and the initial installment to hold your start date. We will be glad to assist in the process to change schools. Advising the TSA and SEVIS are required to change schools.
What are the general requirements for license conversion in different countries?
You will be issued FAA Certificates and Ratings which are recognized by all ICAO member countries. However, if you are an international student, you may be required to complete some conversion exams to meet the local requirements of your country. Also, if your goal is a career in aviation, it is a good idea to find out the minimum hiring requirements of different airlines in your region. Generally speaking, in the U.S. and Europe, the minimum requirements are 1000 flight hours including 100 hours of multi engine time. In other countries, the requirements are 200-250 hours with some multi engine time. You can always add additional time building hours to meet your local hiring requirements in your country.
817-658-5988
Go ahead, call or e-mail! We check e-mail all the time, and, if we miss your call, we're probably out flying, so please leave a message and we'll get right back to you.
Slipstream Aviation
