International Commercial Pilot License Program (CPL)

frequently asked questions

You will find much of the information you need about Skyborne’s International Commercial Pilot License Program (CPL) within these pages. However we have pulled out some frequently asked questions below. If you require further information, please do not hesitate to get in touch using the button at the bottom of the page. 

We are actively accepting applications now.

Yes. Skyborne welcomes international students who meet admission requirements and are eligible to obtain an M-1 Student Visa for vocational flight training in the United States.

As per Government guidance, no new M-1 visas can be issued to nationals from the following countries with effect from Jan 1, 2026 and are therefore NOT eligible to apply:

  • Afghanistan
  • Angola
  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Benin
  • Burkina Faso
  • Burma (Myanmar)
  • Burundi
  • Chad
  • Cote D’Ivoire
  • Cuba
  • Republic of the Congo
  • Dominica
  • Equatorial Guinea
  • Eritrea
  • Gabon
  • The Gambia
  • Haiti
  • Iran
  • Laos
  • Libya
  • Malawi
  • Mali
  • Mauritania
  • Niger
  • Nigeria
  • Palestinian Authority
  • Senegal
  • Sierra Leone
  • Somalia
  • South Sudan
  • Sudan
  • Syria
  • Tanzania
  • Togo
  • Tonga
  • Venezuela
  • Yemen
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

If you are from one of the countries listed above and hold a current M-1 student visa in the U.S., you can apply. 

However, please note, renewals or re-entries for those already in the U.S. are not guaranteed and depend on individual circumstances.

For the latest information, please use these useful links:

No. We have an Indian Commercial Pilot License (CPL) course that is more appropriate for Indian Nationals and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs). You can find more information about this course here

We also provide the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme for Indian Nationals and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs). You can find out more about this course here

International students must obtain an M-1 Student Visa to participate in Skyborne’s flight training programs in the U.S.

Skyborne is SEVP-certified and authorized to issue Form I-20 for eligible students.

You must be at least 18 years old to enroll in flight training at Skyborne.

All applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • A high school diploma or highest level of education
  • Be eligible to obtain US Visa for the purpose of study at technical school (M1 visa)
  • Ability to meet TSA and security requirements
  • A valid FAA 1st Class Medical
  • Must be fluent in English, with proficiency equivalent to ICAO Level 4 or IELTS 5.5 (academic)
  • Hold a passport
  • Proof of financial support: A recent bank statement (issued within the last 3 months) or affidavit of support form showing sufficient funds in USD to cover the estimated tuition cost and living expenses while studying in the States 

After acceptance into a Skyborne program:
1. Skyborne issues your Form I-20
2. You pay the SEVIS fee
3. Complete the DS-160 application
4. Schedule your embassy interview
5. Attend your visa interview
6. Receive your visa and plan travel
Our admissions team will guide you through this process.

You must obtain a US FAA 1st Class Medical Certificate before you commence your flight training.

We have monthly intakes on the first Monday of every month throughout the year.

No, there is no selection process for this course. Providing you meet the eligibility criteria outlined and can fund your training, you are able to join a start date. 

There is no fee to register your interest in the program.

$87,000 including a $500 non-refundable deposit to secure your start date.  

  • Training cost for the mandatory number of hours required for dual FAA and CPL licenses
  • Equipment and training materials e.g.
    • iPad / Headset
    • ForeFlight subscription
    • Training glasses
    • VFR charts
    • Safety vest
    • Logbook
    • GAT’s fuel tester
    • E6B Flight Computer
    • Kneeboard
    • RJ1 plotter
    • Flight bag / case
    • Small Gleim logbook / Gleim private online code
  • Required uniform
  • Logistical support at Vero Beach, Florida
  • Plus much more

No. Accommodation is not included in the course cost. 

We have partnered with Collegiate Housing Services (CHS) who specialize in placing students in off-campus residencies right here in Vero Beach.

CHS works closely with students to determine their best options. Students can choose between having a roommate or not, in addition to location preferences and more. You can find out more here

Skyborne works with approved financing partners for eligible applicants. Financing availability may vary by country and residency status. International students are encouraged to discuss options with admissions.

This is a full-time 11 month course. 

The full course will be conducted in Vero Beach, Florida US.

On completion, you will receive an FAA license.

Once your application is reviewed and approved, and we have received your non-refundable registration fee of $500, you will receive:

  • Your acceptance confirmation
  • Enrollment agreement
  • Training schedule
  • Visa documentation (if applicable)
  • Onboarding instructions

An admissions advisor will remain your primary point of contact throughout enrollment.

After acceptance into a Skyborne program:
1. Skyborne issues your Form I-20
2. You pay the SEVIS fee
3. Complete the DS-160 application
4. Schedule your embassy interview
5. Attend your visa interview
6. Receive your visa and plan travel
Our admissions team will guide you through this process.

Yes. Skyborne maintains high academic, operational, and safety standards. Students are expected to maintain attendance, professionalism, and consistent progress.

Yes. If additional flight or ground training is required beyond the program footprint, additional fees may apply. These are discussed transparently with students.

Our Vero Beach, Florida campus is purpose built to support students from around the world, providing a safe and comfortable home during flight training. With amenities like an on-site pool, sports facilities, and outdoor leisure options such as bike rentals and picnic areas, the campus offers an ideal balance of training and relaxation.

Skyborne offers a professional and supportive training environment focused on safety, discipline, and career development.

Students benefit from:

  • Structured training schedules
  • Dedicated instructors
  • Modern facilities
  • Student support services
  • International student assistance

 

Ground school phase:

During ground school, students attend classroom-based instruction Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Flying phase:

During the flight phase, students are expected to complete self-study between scheduled flights. Each flight must be fully prepared in advance.

Students typically complete 3 to 5 flights per week, depending on weather, aircraft availability, and training progression.

Skyborne aims to maintain an approximate 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio to ensure personalized instruction and consistent support.

Yes. Skyborne operates an FAA Part 145 Repair Station and follows a progressive maintenance program.

Each aircraft receives a portion of its annual inspection every 60 flight hours, rather than every 100 hours, as required by FAA standards. This ensures continuous oversight and enhanced aircraft reliability.

Training schedules are carefully structured to ensure quality and consistency. The only way to progress more quickly is through availability created by cancellations. Otherwise, students must follow their assigned training schedule.

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What Happens Next ?

Commercial airline Programme

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CFI / CFII / MEII

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Leave with Pilot License

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What Happens Next ?

Commercial airline Programme

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CFI / CFII / MEII

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Leave with Pilot License

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What Happens Next ?

Commercial airline Programme

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CFI / CFII / MEII

Odio morbi quis commodo odio aenean tristique risus nec feugiat in fermentum posuere. (15w)

Leave with Pilot License

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What Happens Next ?

Commercial airline Programme

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CFI / CFII / MEII

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Leave with Pilot License

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Module Name#4

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Module Name#3

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Module Name#2

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Module Name#1

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