Though your destination is not yet clear.
You can trust the promise of this opening.
Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk;
Soon you will be home in a new rhythm,
For your soul senses the world that awaits you.

John O’Donohue

Application

You can get started on your application here starting February 16th. 

This is a global fellowship, so we welcome participation from wherever you call home. Our process is simple. 

  • Apply by March 15, 2026, for Early Admission and receive a decision by April 30th. This is the best path if you know you want a Launch Year.

  • Apply by April 30, 2026, for Standard Admission and receive a decision by May 30th.

As you apply, you will: 

  1. Submit a written application

  2. If selected as a semi-finalist you’ll be invited to participate in a more detailed application that includes audio and video responses

  3. If selected as a finalist, you’ll be invited to join an online sessions so we can get to know you

Decisions

You will receive one of the following admissions decisions:

  • You are invited to join the Fellowship: You have been accepted and are now invited to join the cohort. You will have two weeks to accept or decline our offer of admission. If you do not accept by the response deadline, you will be automatically waitlisted.

  • You are waitlisted: You have been placed on the waitlist and do not currently have a place in the cohort. If you choose to remain on the waitlist, you will be considered for admission if space allows.

  • You are declined: Your application process for this year is complete. 

Selection Criteria

We select Fellows on the strength of these demonstrated characteristics:

  • Readiness to live and learn outside of your comfort zone

  • Motivation to learn both online and in the real world (if you prefer IRL-only options, this isn’t a good fit)

  • Commitment to care for the collective (including your cohort, The Flight School, and the world at large)

  • Demonstrated maturity, sound judgment, and the ability to uphold well-being

We'll also be looking for:

  • Intrinsic motivation — we offer support, but you bring initiative

  • Flexibility — it’s our third year, so we are still evolving 

  • Openness to being changed by what you encounter 

  • Curiosity and a drive to learn about the world and yourself

  • Commitment to leaving the Fellowship better than you found it — and to paying it forward to future cohorts

Finally, we will also consider an applicant's interests, background, experiences, and referrals.

To be considered for The Flight School Fellowship, you must:

  • Be at least 18 by July 31, 2026

  • Have graduated from high school between May 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026

  • Be available to fully participate in all Launch Year programming August 3, 2026 - May 29, 2027

  • Have access to reliable internet 

  • Be proficient in English

  • Have parent/guardian consent to participate in this application

  • Agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

  • Review the Essential Eligibility Criteria in the FAQs

  • Complete the online application below

If at any point you have questions, please email info@theflightschool.org.

Compassion

Engaged Empathy

Learn more