Written By Ishitha Arekapudi
Flying a glider is about more than just flight, it’s about awareness, skill, and confidence. For women in soaring, we offer scholarships that open doors, no matter your age or experience level. Whether you’ve never been inside a glider before or have taken countless cross country flights, WSPA has a scholarship that fits.
Start with Confidence
Learning to fly a glider as a beginner builds habits that shape the rest of your aviation journey. WSPA offers three beginner scholarships:
- The Sky Ghost Scholarship is for young women under 25. You must be 15 by May 1 of the year you apply.
- If you’re 25 or older, the Mid Kolstad Scholarship is a great fit.
- For women of any age attending the Women Soaring Seminar, the Briegleb Scholarship helps cover costs related to glider lessons and participation. (Deadline extended to May 15!)
Advance Your Ratings
Moving toward a commercial license or instructor rating? WSPA has you covered.
- Monique’s Scholarship supports women working on their CFIG.
- The Flying Montagues Scholarship helps with progress toward both Commercial and CFIG ratings.
- The Glider Girl Scholarship offers funding for a Commercial, CFIG, or tow pilot endorsement. (Applicants must be 17 by May 1.)
Fly Further
Soaring isn’t just about staying aloft, it’s about breaking boundaries.
- The Maria Faber Scholarship supports training in cross-country, aerobatics, or badge/record flying. It can also be used for a tow pilot endorsement if you’re already airplane licensed.
- The Karl Striedieck Competition Scholarship helps experienced glider pilots fly in SSA-sanctioned contests (U.S. residents only).
Build with Support
WSPA scholarships aren’t just financial. Each recipient is paired with a mentor who offers encouragement and guidance. Applications are judged by a committee of WSPA members who look for:
- Clear and realistic goals
- Dedication and follow-through
- Active involvement in WSPA and the soaring community
Apply with Purpose
The deadline for most scholarships is March 15 each year. (The Briegleb Seminar Scholarship has a May 15 deadline.) You can only apply for one scholarship per year, but you’re welcome to reapply in future years.
Before applying:
- Read the requirements carefully.
- Write an honest, focused essay.
- Ask a mentor or friend to review your writing.
- Keep your WSPA membership current.
- Reach out to the Scholarship Chair at scholarships@womensoaring.org with questions or for help choosing the right award.
Learn more on our SCHOLARSHIPS tab and let your soaring journey take flight! If you’re passionate about soaring and ready to take the next step, we’re here to support you.
