Yes! International students can train with Aviation Academy Scotland, but there are specific requirements depending on your nationality and visa status. Here’s everything you need to know before enrolling.
1. Do I Need a Visa to Train in the UK?
The requirements depend on your nationality:
UK and Irish citizens – No visa is required.
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens – You do not need a visa if you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. Otherwise, a visa may be required.
Non-EU citizens – A visa is required to study in the UK.
2. What Type of Visa Do I Need?
Short-Term Training (e.g., PPL, Flight Training Experience Weeks) – A Standard Visitor Visa may be sufficient for training up to 6 months.
Long-Term Training (e.g., Commercial Pilot Pathway, full modular training) – Aviation Academy Scotland does not sponsor student visas, so you must ensure you have an appropriate visa for long-term training.
We strongly recommend checking UK Home Office guidelines or consulting a visa specialist before applying.
3. Can I Work While Training?
A Standard Visitor Visa does not allow employment in the UK.
If you are on another type of visa (such as a dependent visa), your ability to work depends on its conditions.
Students should plan financially to cover their training and living expenses without relying on work income.
4. English Language Requirements
Training is conducted in English, so students must have a good level of spoken and written English.
If English is not your first language, you may need to demonstrate ICAO Level 4 English proficiency.
Aviation Academy Scotland can assess your English ability during training.
5. Can I Convert My Licence for Use in Another Country?
We train under UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations.
If you intend to fly in another country, you may need to convert your licence.
We recommend checking with your home country’s aviation authority about conversion requirements before beginning training.
6. Accommodation and Transport
While Aviation Academy Scotland does not provide accommodation, we can recommend local options.
The academy is located in a well-connected area with public transport and rental options available.
Next Steps for International Students
If you’re an international student looking to train with us: ✔ Check UK visa requirements before applying. ✔ Ensure you meet English language standards. ✔ Confirm whether you need to convert your licence after training. ✔ Contact us for more details about getting started!