International Student Information

We have been training pilots since 2000 from over 80 different countries.  With our global experience we can assist you every step of your way – from the  U.S. visa process,  to assisting you to meet the conversion standards of your home country and finally to help guide you when you return begin your conversion process. 

Basic Requirements for International Students:

In order to begin your flight training at Riverside Flight Center, you must:

  • Complete and submit our Online Application Form
  • Be at least 17 years and 8 months of age
  • Be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language *Level 4-6 ICAO score
  • Have 20/20 vision with, or without corrective lenses
  • Not have color-vision deficiencies
  • Have a basic knowledge of math and physics
  • Have sufficient funds for the full training course in which you are enrolled
  • Pass the FAA Medical Exam (class I, II, or III are all acceptable)
  • Have a passport that is valid longer than your intended stay in the U.S.
  • Submit a $500 Admin fee to the school
  • Obtain a M-1 Visa from the U.S. Embassy (Send a copy of your visa to the school)

Our Professional Pilot (Multi-Engine) Program meets FAA, CAA, EASA, DGCA and ICAO standards; therefore, when you finish your training you can easily convert your licenses in your country. Different countries have different conversion standards and based on our International experience we can help guide you to make sure you meet the correct conversion standards.

International Program

International Student Application Process

  1. Apply Online. Fill out our Online Application Form completely. Make sure your name is entered as it appears on your passport.
  2. If you are not a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident you will need a M-1 visa to train at our school. You will need an I-20 Form and Confirmation of Enrollment Letter from Riverside Flight Center so you can begin your M-1 Visa process. It is Riverside Flight Center's policy that you must submit an Application fee before we will send you form I-20. The deposit will go towards your training fees. The deposit will be refunded (minus any bank fees) if your visa application is denied.
  3. We will make you an I-20 Form and send it to the mailing address you indicate on your Online Application. Once you receive the I-20, you must pay an I-901 fee, otherwise known as a SEVIS payment, to the US Government ($200 USD). It is required by the US Government that you pay your SEVIS fee prior to attending your visa interview. For more information visit fmjfee.com.
  4. M-1 Visa Interview. After the SEVIS Payment is made, you will schedule the visa interview. To schedule the Visa Interview visit:https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/. To learn more about non-immigrant student visas visit: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/student-visa.html
  5. Arrive In Tulsa. Once you are issued the M-1 visa, contact RFC and you will be given additional instructions regarding your arrival. The airport you are arriving at is called Tulsa International Airport (KTUL).
International Application Form