International students
TFA is not SEVP-designated and cannot issue I-20s or sponsor M-1/F-1 student visas. If you are already legally in the U.S. on a visa permitting flight training, we'd be happy to train you. If you're applying from abroad, you'll need to find an SEVP-designated school for the visa, and we can talk about pathways through our college partners.
Eligibility
Take Flight Aviation is not designated by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). What that means in practice:
CAN train at TFA
If you are a U.S. permanent resident, asylee, refugee, or are on a visa category that permits flight training (B-1/B-2 in some cases, work visa, etc.), we can train you. You'll need FTSP clearance for non-U.S. citizens.
CANNOT train at TFA directly
If you are applying from abroad and need a student visa specifically for flight training, you'll need to find an SEVP-designated flight school that can issue I-20 forms. We can talk about possible pathways through our college partners (some may offer SEVP-designated programs).
FTSP process
Non-U.S. citizens must complete the TSA Flight Training Security Program (FTSP, formerly AFSP) before flight training can begin. Here's the process from your side:
Step 1
Submit FTSP application directly to TSA (tsa.gov) with passport, visa, and supporting documents.
Step 2
We validate your application within 24–48 hours of receiving the TSA request.
Step 3
Visit an external FBI-approved fingerprinting location. Not done at TFA.
Step 4
TSA reviews and clears (typically 7–14 days from submission).
Step 5
Once cleared, flight training can begin. FTSP clearance is required for each new flight training category.
Why TFA
Fleet & training
Modern glass-cockpit aircraft (DA20-C1, DA40 NG, DA42 NG-VI, DA50 RG, DA62) for every training stage.
Location
KMGJ at Orange County (NY) — accessible to NYC for visa-related appointments, embassy visits, weekends.
Operational substance
Real numbers, not marketing. Eight-year average across PPL through CFI.
Pathway via college partners
If you need to come to the United States specifically for aviation training, one possible pathway is enrolling at a partner university that offers an aviation degree program with SEVP-designated flight training options. Our college partners — Purdue Global and Utah Valley University — may have aviation pathways that work for international applicants.
Important caveat: We’re still verifying which of our college partners’ programs are SEVP-designated for international students. Visa eligibility, I-20 issuance, and program access are determined by the partner institution’s Designated School Official (DSO), not by TFA. Verify directly with the partner institution’s DSO before making travel or enrollment plans.
If this pathway interests you, see our College Programs page and reach out — we’ll connect you with the right contacts at Purdue Global or UVU.
Common questions
Can I train at TFA on a B-2 tourist visa?
B-1/B-2 visa holders are generally restricted from extensive flight training. Short-term recreational flight training (e.g., one or two flights as a tourist activity) may be permissible, but anything resembling formal flight training toward a certificate requires the appropriate visa category. Consult an immigration attorney — TFA cannot provide visa advice.
How long does FTSP clearance take?
Typically 2–4 weeks from initial application to TSA clearance, depending on TSA processing times. Plan for additional time if you need to schedule fingerprinting at an FBI-approved location.
What's the difference between FTSP and AFSP?
FTSP (Flight Training Security Program) is the current TSA program name. AFSP (Alien Flight Student Program) is the legacy term — same program, renamed. You may see references to both in older flight school materials.
Does English proficiency matter?
Yes — the FAA requires English proficiency for all pilot certificates (FAR §61.83). You don’t need to be fluent, but you must be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language. Most international students at TFA test at functional English level or higher before starting.
Can I convert my foreign pilot license to FAA?
Yes — see our Custom Flight Training page for the License Completion Program details. ICAO contracting state licenses can typically be converted to FAA Private through a written exam plus a checkride. Commercial and ATP conversions are more involved but possible.
Where do international students live during training?
Most international students rent short-term housing in Orange County, NY (Newburgh, Middletown, New Windsor). We can connect you with local realtors and short-term rental hosts. Some students share apartments with other TFA students.
Email our international team with your visa status and training goals. We'll give you an honest assessment.
49 Hangar Road, Hangar D
Montgomery, NY 12549
845-457-4188
Open 7 days · 8 AM – 6 PM