The Pathway Includes:
Visa and Logistics Support
Support for M-1 visa application, housing, and relocation planning (visa approval is determined by U.S. government authorities and is not guaranteed).
Training Aligned with CAAV Requirements
Covering total flight hours, Pilot-in-Command time, cross-country, instrument, and night flying experience
FAA Part 141 Flight Training
A structured curriculum from Private Pilot through Commercial Multi-Engine
Commercial Pilot Certification with Multi-Engine Instrument Rating**
| Training Stage | Training Hours | IAA Cost |
| Academic Courses | 100 | $9,450 |
| Solo/PIC | 60 | $11,820 |
| Dual Simulator | 0 | |
| Dual Single | 101 | $28,965 |
| Dual Multi | 35 | $14,737 |
| Pre/post Flight Brief | 35 | $3,325 |
| FAA Flight Tests PPL/IR | 3 | $591 |
| FAA Flight Tests CPL/ME | 2 | $760 |
| TOTAL | 196 flight hours | |
| $69,648 | ||
| Additional Fees | ||
| FAA examiner | $4,500 | |
| written exams | $525 | |
| admission fee | $800 | |
| SEVIS | ||
| TSA | $390 | |
| Finger Print | $50 | |
| 12 months housing | $9,600 | |
| $15,865 | ||
| Total | $85,513 |
Training costs and fees are estimates and subject to change. Actual costs may vary based on individual progress, training needs, and third-party fees.
Enrollment Criteria
What You Need to Begin. Eligible candidates must meet CAAV and FAA requirements, including:
- Minimum age of 18
- High school diploma (or equivalent, subject to evaluation of foreign credentials)
- ICAO Aviation English proficiency (or willingness to complete 3rd-party language school)
- Valid passport for visa processing
- Must obtain an FAA medical certificate from an authorized aviation medical examiner
After completing FAA-approved training at IAA, Vietnamese students follow the CAAV conversion process to validate their licenses in Vietnam. This ensures that training completed in the U.S. is officially recognized for a professional career in Vietnam.*
*Certification, conversion, and employment are subject to third-party requirements and are not guaranteed.
**Third-party certifications and ratings are not automatic or guaranteed, and are awarded solely by the FAA or other issuing authorities.
Why IAA?
For over 30 years, Illinois Aviation Academy has been focused on student-centered flight training, guiding pilots from Private Pilot certification through Certified Flight Instructor, with additional advanced ratings and ground school. With a 30,000-square-foot facility, a fleet of 30+ aircraft, and a simulator-equipped satellite base at DeKalb Airport, IAA provides training resources and one-on-one student support.
Housing While You Attend Illinois Aviation Academy*
At Illinois Aviation Academy, we have partnered with Collegiate Housing Services (CHS) to assist students who need help securing housing. CHS provides a full range of housing services and works closely with students to determine the best options. Click below to view the services available to assist in your relocation.
*Housing is optional and provided in full-size apartments with shared or private bedrooms, typically within 10 miles of campus. Housing is arranged directly through Collegiate Housing Services (CHS), an independent provider. IAA is not responsible for housing availability, quality, or terms.
Certification, conversion, visa approval, and employment are subject to third-party requirements and are not guaranteed.
Links to third-party services are provided for convenience; IAA is not responsible for the content, accuracy, or security of external sites.