International Student Pilot Training in the USA
Cirrus Aviation proudly offers FAA-approved flight training for international students seeking professional pilot education in the United States.
Become a Pilot With Cirrus Aviation
Flight training as an international student in the United States
Based at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (KSRQ) in Florida, our flight school provides structured, standardized training programs designed to meet global aviation standards while preparing students for real-world flying environments.
With over three decades of experience, Cirrus Aviation supports international students from initial inquiry through certification, offering clear guidance, modern aircraft, advanced simulators, and a professional training atmosphere. Whether your goal is private flying or a long-term aviation career, our team ensures an organized and efficient training experience from day one.
Flight Training in Sarasota, Florida
Liberty University partnership
Sarasota, Florida offers an ideal environment for flight training, combining excellent year-round flying weather with a high quality of life. The region's favorable climate allows for consistent training schedules with minimal weather-related delays, accelerating student progress and reducing downtime.
Located on Florida's Gulf Coast, Sarasota is known for its beaches, cultural attractions, and welcoming community. Students benefit from access to controlled and uncontrolled airspace, diverse traffic environments, and proximity to major aviation hubs throughout the Tampa Bay region.
- Nearly flawless weather the whole year round
- FAA Air Traffic Control Tower
- Light commercial airline traffic for realistic training
- Nearby Class B and uncontrolled airspace for a variety of flight training environments
- Superb scenery with beautiful beaches
Visa and TSA Requirements
International student requirements
International flight training in the United States requires compliance with both immigration and security regulations. Cirrus Aviation is authorized to train international students and provides step-by-step assistance throughout the approval process.
All students who are not US Citizens and who are not Permanent US Residents need to have the appropriate visa for flight training as well as TSA (Transportation Security Administration) approval. Permanent US Residents also need TSA approval, although a visa is not required. English proficiency is required, as all instruction, documentation, and FAA testing are conducted in English.
Our admissions and student services teams work closely with international applicants to ensure all required documentation, approvals, and timelines are clearly understood and properly completed before training begins.
Two Routes, One Destination
Career comparison
Non-Degree
Seeking
Flying Solo
Completion expected in 10 months. Eligible for hire by most aviation companies at 1,500 hours
Learn MorePrivate Pilot License
Instrument Rating
Commercial License
Multi-Engine Rating
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)
Degree
Seeking
Liberty University
Completion expected in 36 months. Eligible for hire by most aviation companies at 1,000 hours
Learn MoreFully Licensed Pilot
Admissions Process
How to get started
Apply
- Complete the I-20 application here.
- Submit official financial verification.
- Pay international student processing fee to Cirrus Aviation.
- Review the international student checklist.
Obtain a M-1 Visa
- Receive a signed I-20 form and admission letter from Cirrus Aviation.
- Once received, you must pay the fee for your I-20 here. This payment process is called the I-901 Form and Fee.
- Keep a printed copy of the I-901 payment receipt for the visa interview.
- Keep the admission letter from Cirrus Aviation for your visa interview.
- Interview with the US Embassy in home country.
- Schedule an interview: Visit your local embassy or consulate online for more information. Go to this website and find your country.
- Review the interview preparation for visa guide.
- Pay the visa application fee from your local consulate or embassy website. Keep printed copy of the receipt for the visa interview.
- Receive the M-1 Visa.
- Contact Cirrus Aviation for official start date.
Make Travel Arrangements
- Purchase Airline Tickets.
- Choose travel dates based on starting and ending dates.
- Arrive into Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (KSRQ) if possible.
- E-mail or mail travel itinerary to Cirrus Aviation.
- Make housing arrangements. Please contact us if recommendations are needed.
- Arrange for transportation during stay. Purchasing a used car is recommended, although long-term car rentals are available.
Register with the TSA (Transportation Security Administration)
- Create an online account. Go to this website to start.
- Follow the TSA Guide.
- Final Approval will be received shortly after fingerprinting is submitted. Fingerprinting can be done in home country or in the US.
Arrival & Check-in
- Arrange for pickup from the airport.
- If arriving into Sarasota, contact us 1 week prior to arrival for transportation from the airport to your housing.
- If arriving into Tampa, visit the shuttle fare website for shuttle information to Sarasota.
- Check in to Housing.
- Check in with Cirrus Aviation.
- Meet and greet with Chief Flight Instructor.
- Receive schedule.
- Purchase study materials.
Start Your Flight Training Journey
Choosing where to train is an important decision, especially when pursuing flight training abroad. Cirrus Aviation combines experience, structure, and personalized support to deliver a professional training environment for international students.
If you are ready to begin your aviation journey in the United States, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.