The Test Pilot School is where the Air Force's top pilots, navigators and engineers learn how to conduct flight tests and generate the data needed to carry out test missions. Human lives and millions of dollars depend upon how carefully a test mission is planned and flown. The comprehensive curriculum of Test Pilot School is fundamental to the success of flight test and evaluation.
To learn more about the history of Test Pilot School, click here.
Updates for applicants: Applications for the July 2010 and January 2011 classes were due 14 August 2009. Applications for the next Board are expected to be due between July and August 2010. AFI 99-107 is expected to be updated in 2009, and applicable to 2010.
How are applicants selected?
TPS has an annual selection board that occurs each year in late October to early November. This board selects pilots, navigators, and engineers for the classes that start in the subsequent July and subsequent January. Check eligibility requirements specified in AFI 99-107 to see if you qualify.
Where can I get more information on applying to TPS? Air Force Instruction 99-107 is the Air Force Instruction that details the TPS application process and requirements. This instruction is in Adobe Acrobat format. You can download the reader for free.
When are applications due?
Applications for the 2009 Board were due 14 August 2009. For civilian engineers applying through their base Long Term Full Time (LTFT) education program, applications may be due a month or more earlier. Give yourself plenty of time to apply. The TPS application process can be complicated and involves obtaining recommendations, transcripts and flight physicals.
How do I apply for TPS?
Applying to TPS requires two forms, Form AF-1711 and Form AF-1712. Instructions and examples for filling out these forms are contained in AFI 99-107. Ensure to read AFI 99-107 thoroughly to understand everything that is required from you and your sponsoring unit. AFI 99-107 is planned to be updated in 2009. The AFI is current for those applying in 2008.
Download AF-1711: USAF Test Pilot School Application
Download AF-1712: Special Flying Program Recommendation (filled out by your supervisor)
These forms require the IMT Viewer software that can be found on the Air Force's e-Publishing website. Download the IMT Viewer.
What are the eligibility requirements? The requirements for admission to TPS are outlined in this document. The eligibility requirements are in the process of being updated. The 2009 TPS Board Announcement message does specify changes that are applicable to 2009 applicants. Your supervisors can check for this message via your local MPF.
What will I study at TPS?
The 48-week long course is broken into four branches: Performance, Flying Qualities, Systems and Test Management. A Graduate Course Catalog can be found here.
Is it true that TPS offers a Masters Degree? TPS is now affiliated with Air University. Accreditation has been granted and graduates as of May 2008 earn a MS degree in Flight Test Engineering.
Do you offer short courses? The USAF Test Pilot School responds to the needs of the aerospace community by teaching short courses throughout the year. All courses for calendar year 2009 are full.
Please let us know if you have interest in current or past courses. The short courses are only available to US military or federal DoD employees. Most of the courses will require some engineering related background. Admissions to short courses will be approved on a case by case and space available basis.
How do I contact TPS? Please call (661) 277-6086 if you would like to find out more about short courses or e-mail TPS Admissions. Make sure to include "short course" in your subject line.
Please contact TPS Admissions at (661) 277-9933 if you would like to find out more about the 48-week long Test Pilot School program.
Where can I get TPS Board Results?
Please contact your supervisors for TPS selection results. The selection process has changed for the 2009 Board. This will modify when notification takes place. Check this web site for updates.
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