APS | Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) Scholarship

Every year, APS champions the next generation of aviation by awarding a scholarship for our Professional Pilot Upset Training program to an aspiring pilot. The recipient of this scholarship joins thousands of pilots who’ve trained at APS, including airline, corporate, and military aviators. This course is about more than survival skills—it’s a career-defining experience in professionalism, precision, and safety. We are proud to offer this scholarship as part of our commitment to enhancing industry safety and nurturing future aviation leaders.

Transformational Flight Instruction

Chelsea Montgomery, a certified flight instructor and UPRT scholarship recipient, shares how this training transformed her teaching and flying abilities. Her experience highlights both the critical need for upset prevention training in aviation education and the profound impact it has on developing safer, more confident pilots.

UPRT overview

Upset Prevention & Recovery Training (UPRT) is dedicated pilot training developed specifically to mitigate the risk of Loss of Control In-flight (LOC-I), aviation’s biggest threat to air safety, by training pilots to develop the often counter-intuitive skills necessary to recognize and prevent or recover from an unexpected airplane upset.

In addition to helping pilots develop these life-saving skills, UPRT also helps pilots improve general manual handling skills and develop mental strength. UPRT-trained pilots demonstrate not only specialized preparation for unexpected upset situations, but also an unwavering commitment to safety and excellence in flying.

Learn more about UPRT

Ready to Apply? -- Start Here

Before you begin your application, please take a moment to get everything in order:

Carefully review the full eligibility and submission requirements
Gather all required documents in digital format (PDF or Word recommended)
Ensure you’re ready to complete the full application in one sitting, including uploads

Having everything prepared in advance will make the process smooth and efficient.

Full Requirements

Must be currently enrolled or recently graduated (6 months or less) from a Part 141 Flight School. Or, a student in good standing, or recently graduated (less than six months) from an accredited college/university in the United States that is a member of the University Aviation Association
Must have a minimum of a Private Pilot Airplane and Instrument Certificate
Must have a current Class III or better Medical Certificate at the time of training
Must be pilot current at time of training
- IFR or Landing currency is not required
- Must be a US Citizen, or meet current TSA aviation training requirements
- Must complete and submit the attached application with supporting documents by the cut off date of April 1, 2026
Must have the financial ability to pay for transportation, lodging, meals during the training period
Scholarship only covers the cost of the training program
Must complete training by December 31, 2026

required documentation

Please gather the following digital documents before you begin your application using the portal below. All uploads must be legible and labeled with your name.

Application Materials

Completed application form (you’ll fill this out in the online application portal below)
One-page essay (PDF or Word format)
- Includes your aviation background, accomplishments, career goals, why you should be selected, and how you’ll promote UPRT

Required Documents (PDF or clear images)

Both sides of your pilot certificate
Proof of flight currency (e.g., logbook pages)
Current Medical Certificate (Class III or better)
College transcript(s) from all institutions attended

Letters of Recommendation

1–3 letters of recommendation
- Must be addressed to “APS UPRT Scholarship Selection Committee”
- Should discuss your character, aviation experience, and potential