VA benefits and the GI Bill®
DCFA is approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs to train eligible veterans using GI Bill® and Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) benefits. Here's exactly which benefits we accept, which four programs are approved, and how to apply.
VA benefits we accept
- Chapter 30Montgomery GI Bill — Active Duty
- Chapter 33Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Chapter 1606Montgomery GI Bill — Selected Reserve
- Chapter 1607Reserve Educational Assistance Program
- Chapter 31Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E)
VA-approved DCFA programs
- Instrument Rating Eligible
- Commercial Single-Engine Land Eligible
- Multi-Engine Commercial Add-On Eligible
- ATP-CTP (simulator time only) Eligible
- Private Pilot certificate Not Eligible
VA-approved programs in detail
Each program below has its own VA-approved Training Course Outline. Every one also requires the following:
- Current Class II Medical Certificate
- Ability to read, speak, and understand English
- A vocational objective in aviation (a VA requirement)
How VA reimbursement affects your cost
The VA reimburses the hours it approves for each course, which can be fewer than the full course requires. For example, the VA approves 15 hours of pre/post-flight briefing for the Instrument Rating, while the full course includes roughly 30. You are responsible for the difference between the VA-approved hours and the full program. The prices shown on our Training page are the full course cost — talk to us and we will walk you through what your specific benefit is expected to cover.
Instrument Rating
EligibleStructured, FAA-approved training under 14 CFR Part 141. Veterans, service members, and reservists may use VA education benefits toward this course when they meet all VA and FAA eligibility requirements.
- Piper Cherokee / Warrior / Archer
- Elite DA-42 Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD)
Commercial Single-Engine
EligibleA Part 141 Commercial Pilot course meeting all FAA Appendix D requirements, fully eligible for VA reimbursement when the student meets the medical and enrollment criteria.
- Piper Cherokee / Warrior / Archer (single-engine)
- Diamond DA-42 Twin Star (multi-engine)
- Elite DA-42 AATD
Multi-Engine Add-On Rating
EligibleAn accelerated add-on rating for commercial pilots seeking multi-engine privileges. Fully Part 141 compliant and VA-eligible.
- Diamond DA-42 Twin Star
- Elite DA-42 AATD
ATP-CTP
EligibleDCFA's ATP Certification Training Program provides the training required before the ATP written exam. Veterans may use VA benefits toward this course when they meet all eligibility requirements.
- Airbus A320-200 Flight Training Device (FSTD)
- Airbus A320-200 full-flight simulators
What veterans should know
- DCFA is approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs to train eligible veterans using GI Bill® and Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) benefits.
- Eligible veterans may receive reimbursement for approved training hours in accordance with 38 CFR.
- Only VA-approved courses listed in WEAMS are eligible for reimbursement.
- Students must hold a valid Class II medical certificate at enrollment to receive VA benefits.
- Non-reimbursable items include software, iPads, supplies, and personal equipment.
How to apply
Three steps. The first must be done with the VA before you start training.
Obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Apply at va.gov/education/how-to-apply before beginning flight training.
Open external link →Get an FAA Class II medical certificate
A valid Class II medical is required at enrollment to receive VA benefits. We recommend Dr. Jerome Limoge in Colorado Springs, or use the FAA AME locator to find an Aviation Medical Examiner near you.
Open external link →Apply to DCFA
Submit our information request form, selecting the program option that matches your goal.
Submit interest form →GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.va.gov/education/. DCFA is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Ready to use your benefits?
Submit the contact form and we'll walk you through the COE, medical, and program-selection process.