Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the requirements to get into the program?
   
   High School Students:
   Students entering the program directly after graduating from high school need to have earned a minimum 3.0 GPA and a 21 ACT or 1000 SAT. The FAA’s hiring requirements for Air Traffic Controller positions require that individuals must meet both physical and mental standards. For more information, visit the FAA Website at: http://www.faa.gov/jobs/job_opportunities/airtraffic_controllers/
   
   
2. What are the age restrictions?
   The FAA requires that an individual must be hired before age 31.
   
   
3. What degree programs are available?
   An associate’s degree is the minimum requirement that will satisfy the FAA requirements. Only students who already have a Bachelor Degree in any major are eligible for the Associate Degree in Air Traffic Control at Lewis University.  A Bachelor’s Degree in Air Traffic Control is required for all students who do not already have a Bachelor Degree. The Bachelor’s Degree will present more opportunities for advancement into management positions within the FAA.
   
   
4. Is the program open to transfer students and students who already have a degree?
   
   Transfer students and students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree: The ATC-CTI program is open to transfer students with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
   
   
5. How long does it take to complete the program?
   Two to four years, depending on which degree program a student enrolls in and whether a student transfers in applicable coursework.
   
   
6. What do air traffic controllers get paid?
   In “A Plan for the Future,” a report published by the FAA in March 2007, salary compensation for those hired in 2007 will average $50,000/year and increase to $94,000 by the fifth year (does not include benefits).
   
   
7. What is involved in the training to be an air traffic controller?
   The degree program will provide students with fundamental air traffic controller knowledge and technical understanding through classroom instruction and laboratory simulations. All potential Air Traffic Control prospects will need to pass the AT-SAT Aptitude test prior to final training in Air Traffic Control. Once students have mastered the foundation designed by the FAA and passed the AT-SAT Aptitude Test, they will need to be recommended by the university for their final training at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. Please visit the FAA Web site at www.faa.gov to learn more.
   
   
8. Will financial aid be available?
   Financial aid may be available to those who qualify based on financial need as determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Students must be enrolled in a degree program full-time (taking a minimum of 12 semester hours).
   
   
   1. Eligibility requirements for financial aid
   2. How to apply for financial aid
   3. Lewis Scholarships

To top