Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon Portland Community College

Aviation Science

Apply to Aviation Science

To join this program, you must apply for admission. This program accepts around 35 students each year. Ideal candidates will be able to clearly describe their career goals and demonstrate strong interest in the aviation field. We admit students who complete all of the steps in order of application received. We will also assist students who haven’t completed all of the steps to develop a plan for entry in a future term.

Questions? Attend an information session or talk with a program advisor.

How to apply

  1. Apply to PCC

    Applying to PCC is free and only takes a few minutes. Complete this step as soon as possible so you can start using PCC resources. On the application, choose Associate of General Studies for your major. (Your major will be updated after you’re admitted to the program.)
    Apply to PCC angle right

  2. Application timeline
    Term you want to start Apply to Aviation Science
    Summer 2023 April 7 – May 8, 2023
    Fall 2023 June 30 – August 7, 2023
    Winter 2024 September 29 – October 30, 2023
    Spring 2024 January 12 – February 12, 2024
    Take prerequisites

    To see if you’ve met these prerequisites, follow the steps under plan your first term.

    • MTH 60: Introductory Algebra
    • WR 115: Intro to College Composition
  3. Choose helicopter or airplane

    If you’re undecided, consider coming to an information session. We can help you set up a demo flight at Hillsboro Aero Academy (HAA). All Aviation Science academic classes take place at Rock Creek. Flight training locations are as follows:

    • Eastside: helicopter flight training at HAA Troutdale airport
    • Westside: airplane flight training at HAA Hillsboro airport
  4. Pass a physical examination

    You will need to get a Class II FAA Medical Certificate. This certificate confirms that you have no health conditions that would prevent you from being a pilot. See the faa.gov site for how to get a medical certificate. Pick AME in the drop down menu, then click on the Location search, type in City and State (do not check anything in the “Designation Type” area) and click the Search button. You will upload a copy of your certificate with your application (see the final step).

  5. Secure funding

    You will need to secure funding for your first term of flight training. You can use one or more of the following to fund your training:

    • Financial aid: federal financial aid can be used, but it often covers only part of the total cost. To apply, fill out the FAFSA at least six months in advance to receive the most aid.
    • Private loans: talk to the program advisor if you need a flight training plan, which is often required for private loans.

    Payment plan options are not accepted for flight training fees.

  6. Consent to release information

    You will need to give us consent to allow us to communicate with HAA and FAA regarding your training. Log in to MyPCC and fill this form out twice (once for HAA and once for FAA). See detailed instructions for consent forms.

  7. Write a cover letter

    In 350 words or less, discuss your career goals and experience in aviation. Feel free to include volunteer experience or membership with aviation organizations. You’ll upload this letter with your application, below.

  8. Submit application

    The spring term application is now closed. The summer term application will open Friday, April 7, 2023.

After you apply

Within two weeks after the deadline, we will notify applicants of their status. Check your MyPCC email: all communication is done through your PCC email account.