Welcome to Life at CAU
More than just a flight school, California Aeronautical University is an aviation community. We’re passionate about aviation and helping the next generation reach their aviation aspirations.
You’ll find us at local air shows, supporting our Flight Team at SAFECON nationals, and celebrating our graduates as they start careers on the flight deck of major airlines, like Delta and United.
See what it’s like to live, learn, and fly as a CAU student.
Connect with us on Social
Take a Look Around
CAU students come from all walks of life and they usually share one thing in common: a passion for aviation. Some come to CAU straight out of high school, some come after serving in the U.S. military, and others come after they’ve started careers in other fields – all united by the drive to pursue a future in aviation. Whether they’re training to become a commercial pilot, aircraft maintenance technician, or aviation business professional, our students are hard-working and dedicated to reaching their goals.
Explore their stories and see what it’s like to be part of the CAU community.
A Day in the Life
At California Aeronautical University, our students live, eat, and breathe aviation.
Curious what a day in the life of a student pilot looks like? Follow Matt as he moves seamlessly between the skies and campus life at the main campus. He walks from his dorm to flight practice, grabs lunch at SkyWay Cafe, and heads to ground school with friends.
Between flights, he enjoys a quick coffee break, joins an airline visit, attends a Flight Team meeting, and practices in the simulator—all before heading back to on-campus housing.
Student Achievements
Pilot Solo Flights
Pilot Checkrides
AMT Certifications
Recognitions and Awards
We’re proud of our students for the dedication they show in pursuing their futures. From top finishes at national flight competitions to leadership recognition, many go above and beyond during their time at CAU.
1st Place
Power-Off Landing
SAFECON Flight Competition
CAU Flight Team Earns National Recognition at Prestigious Flight Competition
Demonstrating their skill, professionalism, and sportsmanship on a national stage, the California Aeronautical University (CAU) Flight Team recently competed at the 2025 National Intercollegiate Flying...
Elected
Student Representative
NIFA Council
CAU Student Elected as NIFA Council Student Representative
California Aeronautical University is proud to announce University student and Flight Team member Jacaree Louis was recently elected as this year’s National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) Council Student Representative. Elected...
1st Female
Flight Mechanic Team
Kern County Sheriff’s Office
Graduate Earns Distinction From CAU
First Woman Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) The challenges of finding qualified aircraft maintenance technician (AMT) have accelerated over the last decade, making it difficult to fulfill the much-needed demand in the aviation industry.* In this male-dominated...
Alumni Success
Our graduates are making their mark in the aviation industry. From the flight decks of major airlines to leadership roles in maintenance and business, CAU alumni are living proof of where a CAU education can take you.
Miguel Diaz
B.S. Aeronautics Graduate
Miguel grew up in California and turned his father’s dream of flying into his own, training at CAU to earn his certificates and ratings and become a flight instructor. He later flew for SkyWest and Frontier before achieving his goal of joining the majors as a Delta Air Lines first officer, where he now flies the Airbus A320 family.
Carrie Certuche
AMT Graduate
Carrie, CAU’s 1st female AMT graduate, grew up in Texas inspired by her uncle, a pilot and mechanic. After serving as an aviation electronics technician in the U.S. Navy, she advanced her career with Bell Helicopter and Sikorsky before training at CAU. Today, she serves as the Director of Maintenance at Kern County Sheriff’s Office.
Brycen Yamaguchi
B.S. Aeronautics Graduate
Brycen grew up in Honolulu, Hawaii, where his passion for aviation was sparked by his father, a police officer who often worked with helicopter pilots. Seeing aviation up close inspired Brycen to realize that a career in flying wasn’t just possible—it offered a lifestyle that would allow him to travel the world.
California Aeronautical University is proud to have a competitive Flight Team—think of it as our version of a football team. The CAU Flight Team competes in National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) events such as the Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference (SAFECON), fundraises to participate in national competitions, and gives back by volunteering both on campus and in the community.
By competing in prestigious events like SAFECON nationals, team members sharpen their flying precision, strengthen teamwork, and represent CAU on a national stage. It’s more than competition—it’s preparation for a career in aviation.
Explore the achievements and events of the CAU Flight Team. Ready to get join? Check out the requirements below.
1st Place
Power-Off Landing
NIFA SAFECON Nationals
Sportsmanship
Award Winner
NIFA SAFECON Nationals
SAFECON Host
Regional II Competition
Bakersfield, California
See the Flight Team in Action
CAU Flight Team Earns National Recognition at Prestigious Flight Competition
Demonstrating their skill, professionalism, and sportsmanship on a national stage, the California Aeronautical University (CAU) Flight Team recently competed at the 2025 National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) SAFECON flight competition,...
CAU Flight Team Places 2nd at Regionals, Qualifies for National Flight Competition
California Aeronautical University’s Flight Team placed second overall in the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) Region II SAFECON 2022, held at California Aeronautical University (CAU) on October 25–29, 2022. The...
Sponsored by Lightspeed Aviation
California Aeronautical University’s Flight Team is proudly sponsored by Lightspeed Aviation, a leading provider of premium aviation headsets and innovative pilot products. Through this partnership, Lightspeed helps support the team’s mission to compete at the highest levels of collegiate aviation while equipping student pilots with the tools they need to succeed in the cockpit and beyond. This sponsorship highlights a shared commitment to advancing aviation education and empowering the next generation of aviators.
CAU students receive a special discount on Lightspeed’s Zulu 3 headsets.
Learn more about Lightspeed Aviation at lightspeedaviation.com
Join the Flight Team
Interested in taking your skills to the next level? The CAU Flight Team is open to motivated students who want to compete, grow, and represent the University on a national stage. Team members not only build advanced flight skills but also gain leadership, teamwork, and networking opportunities that last a lifetime.
Requirements to Apply:
Must be an active student at California Aeronautical University
Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, with no D or F grades in the previous two terms
Meet minimum attendance requirements while on the team
As an aviation-focused university, we live, eat, sleep, and breathe aviation. That experience begins at our main campus– a purpose-built flight training facility in the heart of California’s Central Valley. Here, students enjoy an immersive aviation experience with a 39,000-sq-ft flight center just steps from the aircraft and a 32,000-sq-ft hangar. The campus also features on-campus student housing, a dining facility, and a recreation center with athletic courts and a pool.
A typical day might include walking from student housing to the SkyWay café for breakfast, attending ground school in the administration building, shooting hoops while watching commercial airliners or cargo carriers take off, and then heading to the flight line for an evening flight lesson.
Welcome to Your New Home
CAU offers on-campus student housing at the main campus, providing a convenient and supportive living environment that allows students to focus on their studies and flight training. The 168-room dormitory features private bathrooms in every room, along with a personal study area and desk for each student.
What's included in housing?
- Double occupancy room with bathroom and shower
- 19 meals per week
- Utilities
- Cable
- Internet
- Parking
- Laundry facilities
- Student lounge and study room
- Gym, basketball courts, tennis courts, pool, and sand volleyball court
- Game room
- Security card access
Meet Your RAs
Living on campus means you’ll always have support close by. Our team of Resident Assistants (RAs) live in student housing and serve as mentors, resources, and leaders within the community. Whether you need help adjusting to campus life, have questions about housing, or just want a friendly face to connect with, your RAs are here to help you make the most of your CAU experience.
Meet Decklan
Started CAU August 2023
Decklan likes building and fixing computers and phones in his free time. He chose to become an RA because he wants to have fun and decorate events that he finds engaging.
Meet Lo
Started CAU August 2023
A fun fact about Lo is that her middle name is 42 letters long. She's excited to be one of the residential assistants as it’ll be a great way to meet new faces.
Meet Frederick
Started CAU March 2023
A fun fact about Frederick is that he collect paintings - he has about 25 all over his house. He chose to be an RA so he can help build a welcoming community for new students.
Meet Ray
Started CAU August 2024
A fun fact about Ray is that his birthday is on December 25th! He chose to be an RA because he wanted to be more involved and be a role model.
What's it Like Living at CAU?
The SkyWay Café
Conveniently located on the main campus, the SkyWay Café provides students with breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. For students living on campus, 19 meals per week are included in the cost of housing, making dining simple and stress-free. Off-campus students and members of the public are also welcome to enjoy the Café by purchasing individual meals.
The SkyWay Café provides:
- Daily lunch buffet
- Soup and salad bar
- Coffee and fountain drink stations
- Short-order menu
Get Involved in Student Life Activities
View this profile on InstagramCAU Student Life (@caustudentlife) • Instagram photos and videos
Student Events
From campus traditions to weekly activities, student events are a chance to connect, unwind, and make memories outside the classroom. Whether it’s a social gathering, cultural celebration, or special guest speaker, there’s always something happening to bring the community together.
Aviation Career Day
Aviation Career Day gives students the opportunity to connect directly with industry professionals, explore career paths, and gain valuable insight into the future of aviation. It’s a chance to network, ask questions, and take meaningful steps toward your goals.
Community Service & Volunteering
Giving back is an important part of student life. Through community service and volunteering, students can make a positive impact, build leadership skills, and form lasting connections both on and off campus.
Studying at CAU means living in the heart of California, where aviation and adventure go hand in hand. From our main campus in Bakersfield to the coastal communities of Oxnard and San Diego, students can enjoy flyable weather each year, making it a great place to become a pilot. Beyond the flight line, California offers endless opportunities to explore—whether it’s a quick training flight to the coast, a road trip to Los Angeles or San Francisco, or enjoying local attractions, restaurants, and outdoor recreation right here in Bakersfield.
In and Around Bakersfield, CA
- Frugatti’s – A local favorite for authentic Italian cuisine with a warm, family-style atmosphere.
- Dagny’s – A cozy downtown coffee shop known for its locally roasted coffee, pastries, and community vibe.
- Bakersfield Condors Game – Experience fast-paced hockey action with Bakersfield’s own AHL team, the affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers.
- Underground Records – A go-to shop for vinyl collectors, offering new and vintage records across every genre.
- Bakersfield Museum of Art – Showcasing regional and contemporary art, this museum highlights the Central Valley’s creative spirit.
- Hart Park – A spacious park with picnic areas, fishing lakes, and trails perfect for a family day outdoors.
- Wind Wolves Preserve – One of the largest nonprofit nature preserves in the West, featuring hiking trails and diverse wildlife.
- Kern County Museum – Step back in time with historic buildings, exhibits, and artifacts that tell the story of Kern County’s past.
- Downtown/The Padre – Bakersfield’s historic downtown hub with lively dining, nightlife, and the iconic Padre Hotel.
- Murray Family Farms – A family-friendly stop offering fresh produce, farm tours, and seasonal events like fruit picking.
- The Bluffs – A scenic overlook offering panoramic views of Bakersfield and the Kern River valley, perfect at sunset.
Local Highlights:
Downtown Museums
- Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: A live country‑music venue, museum, lounge, and restaurant honoring the iconic Bakersfield Sound
- Kern County Museum: Featuring Pioneer Village, historic buildings, and exhibits on the county’s oil legacy
- Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science: Home to fossils from Sharktooth Hill, interactive displays, and local paleo‑dig stories
- The Fox Theater: A beautiful 1930s Spanish Revival venue hosting art films, ballets, concerts, and community events
Outdoors & Parks
- Hart Memorial Park & Kern River Parkway: A lush 6000‑acre river corridor with trails, fishing lakes, disc‑golf, and picnic sites just 20 minutes outside the city
- Panorama Park / Panorama Vista Preserve: Stunning views of the Kern River canyon—excellent for hiking, biking, and scenic sunset watching
- California Living Museum (CALM): A 14‑acre native zoo and botanical garden that educates visitors about local wildlife and ecosystems
Family & Food Picks
- Murray Family Farms (“Big Red Barn”): Seasonal fruit‑picking, farm tours, pumpkin patches, and fall festivals—ideal for family outings
- Local Eateries to Try:
- Arizona Cafe: Famous for chile verde and nostalgic flavor, serving only breakfast–lunch (no avocado!) Eater LA+1Visit Bakersfield+1sfgate.com.
- Punjabi Dhaba: Northern Indian street‑food comfort in a new permanent location in west Bakersfield Eater LA.
- Mossman’s Westchester Coffee Shop: Retro diner renowned for its fish & chips, a downtown veteran since 1952
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Driving distance to…
Outdoor & Wildlife Escapes
- Carrizo Plain National Monument (~1.5–2 hrs): Vast wildflower plains, Soda Lake, Painted Rock, and remote landscapes perfect for photography and peaceful hikes
- Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area / Lake Evans (~30 mi SW): Boating, jet‑skiing, fishing, camping, and picnicking on serene lakes
Mountain and Forest Adventures
- Sequoia National Forest & Kings Canyon region: Drive up Kern River Canyon to giant sequoias, high‑country trails (Trail of 100 Giants, Coso Mine Loop) and year-round mountain adventures
History & Culture
- Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park: A restored town established by Black veterans in the early 1900s, free admission and rich in heritage
- Wind Wolves Preserve (~1 hr): California’s largest private preserve with spring wildflowers, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing on expansive grasslands
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History & Culture
- San Simeon & Hearst Castle (~3.5 hrs): Explore grandeur at Hearst Castle, coastal beaches, and elephant seal rookeries by the sea
- Paso Robles Wine Country (~2.5 hrs): Vineyard tours, wine tastings, horseback riding, and a relaxing escape into rolling hills
- Ventura / Santa Barbara (~2–3 hrs): Coastal strolls, surf & paddleboard lessons, Stearns Wharf, and beach-town charm
- Oakhurst / Yosemite gateway (~3 hrs to southern Yosemite): Hiking, touring Yosemite by train or bus, exploring Gold Rush history
- Palm Springs or Lake Arrowhead (~3.5–4 hrs): Desert resort luxury and mountain lake relaxation, perfect for romantic or restorative getaways
California Destinations
- Los Angeles – Hollywood, theme parks (Disneyland, Universal Studios), beaches, nightlife, museums.
- San Francisco – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, cable cars, and nearby wine country.
- San Diego – Laid-back coastal vibe, San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and beautiful beaches.
- Sacramento – California’s capital with Gold Rush history, farm-to-fork dining, and museums.
- Yosemite National Park – Iconic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias.
- Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks – Home to the world’s largest trees, including General Sherman.
- Death Valley National Park – Striking desert landscapes, Badwater Basin (lowest point in North America).
- Lake Tahoe – Year-round playground for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and summer lake activities.
- Big Sur – Rugged cliffs, Bixby Creek Bridge, breathtaking Pacific Coast Highway views.
- Santa Barbara – Mediterranean-style architecture, beaches, wineries, and mountains.
- Monterey & Carmel – Famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and scenic 17-Mile Drive.
- Malibu & Santa Monica – Classic SoCal beaches, surfing, shopping, and pier attractions.
- Anaheim – Disneyland Resort & California Adventure.
- Palm Springs – Retro desert oasis, mid-century modern design, spas, and the Aerial Tramway.
- Napa Valley – World-renowned vineyards, luxury resorts, hot air balloon rides.
- Sonoma County – More laid-back wine country with beautiful scenery and farm-to-table dining
Studying at CAU in Mesa means training in the greater Phoenix area, where clear skies and year-round sunshine create an ideal environment for flight training. With nearly perfect flying conditions, students can log hours consistently while experiencing the beauty of the Southwest from the air. Outside of training, the Phoenix metro area offers plenty to explore—whether it’s hiking desert trails, catching a spring training baseball game, visiting downtown attractions, or taking a short trip to destinations like Sedona or the Grand Canyon.
In and Around Phoenix
Local Highlights:
Nature & Outdoor Favorites
- Desert Botanical Garden: A 140‑acre showcase of over 50,000 desert-adapted plants, including rare cacti, agave and themed collections from Baja and Australia
- Papago Park: Home to iconic red rock formations like Hole in the Rock, plus free hiking and bike trails, picnic lakes, Phoenix Zoo, and Desert Botanical Garden
- Hiking Camelback Mountain or Mount Piestewa: Classic Phoenix hikes offering panoramic city and desert views—challenging summit trails Bunyon (Echo Canyon) and Piestewa are roughly 2–3 mi round-trip
Culture & Museums
- Phoenix Art Museum and Heard Museum: Renowned collections advancing contemporary and Native American art scenes
- Musical Instrument Museum (MIM): View and hear instruments from nearly all cultures—over 15,000 pieces on display
- Roosevelt Arts District & First Friday Art Walk: A vibrant hub of street murals, galleries, live music, and nightlife in downtown Phoenix
Family & Fun
- Phoenix Zoo: Located within Papago Park, pairing well with the Botanical Garden or Hole‑in‑the‑Rock viewpoints
- Goldfield Ghost Town: A restored 1890s mining town in the Superstition Mountains offering panning for gold, a scenic train, and Wild West ambiance
- Hot Air Balloon Ride or Desert UTV Tour: Enjoy aerial views of the Sonoran Desert or adrenaline-filled desert ATV trails
Driving distance to…
Outdoor & Wildlife Escapes
- Sedona & Oak Creek Canyon: Famous red rock vistas, stunning hiking trails, and charming small-town strolls. Often paired with a stop at the Grand Canyon for scenic contrast
- Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim): One of the world’s top natural wonders—approximately 3.5 hrs from Phoenix via Flagstaff. Access via I‑17 north or scenic Hwy 89/Route 64
- Canyon Lake / Superstition Mountains: Paddleboarding/kayaking on glassy canyon waters with rugged desert backdrop—a peaceful desert escape
- Flagstaff or Prescott: Flagstaff is a pine‑forest cool‑weather refuge, plus access to Wupatki and Sunset Crater; Prescott offers historic downtown artistry and lakes
- Tombstone, Bisbee or Jerome: Historic mining towns offering Old West flair—from saloons and guided tours to artsy mountain architecture
- Flagstaff & Grand Canyon: Stay a night in Flagstaff or Grand Canyon village to explore more of northern Arizona’s forests, observatories, and high-country views
- Sedona, AZ: For vibrant arts, spiritual retreats, outdoor trails, and luxe resorts framed by iconic red rocks.
- Castle Hot Springs: A historic mineral-spring resort northwest of Phoenix offering suspension-bridge hikes, Via Ferrata climbing, and transformative spa experiences
- Scottsdale resort stays: Upscale hotels such as Arizona Biltmore, Global Ambassador, Hotel Valley Ho, and the Phoenician offer luxury, wellness, desert golf, and spa amenities
Arizona Destinations
- Phoenix – Arizona’s capital with world-class golf, desert hiking, luxury resorts, and cultural attractions.
- Scottsdale – Upscale shopping, art galleries, spas, and vibrant nightlife.
- Tucson – A UNESCO City of Gastronomy with a mix of desert landscapes, historic missions, and Old West charm.
- Flagstaff – A cool mountain town with breweries, skiing, and access to the Grand Canyon.
- Grand Canyon National Park – One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, with hiking, rafting, and breathtaking viewpoints.
- Sedona – Famous for its red rock formations, vortex sites, and luxury spas.
- Antelope Canyon – Striking slot canyons with swirling sandstone walls, popular for photography.
- Monument Valley – Iconic desert mesas featured in countless Western films.
- Petrified Forest National Park – Colorful badlands and ancient petrified wood landscapes.
- Saguaro National Park – Home to the giant saguaro cactus, an Arizona symbol.
- Lake Powell & Glen Canyon – Houseboating, kayaking, and red rock scenery.
- Horseshoe Bend – A dramatic curve in the Colorado River with stunning views.
- Meteor Crater – A massive impact site near Winslow, one of the best-preserved craters in the world.
- Kartchner Caverns State Park – Stunning underground limestone caves with unique formations.
- Jerome – A former ghost town turned artsy hillside village.
- Bisbee – A quirky mining town with murals, art, and historic tours.
- Tombstone – The Old West lives on with reenactments of the famous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
- Mission San Xavier del Bac (Tucson) – A stunning historic Spanish mission.
- White Mountains (Pinetop-Lakeside, Show Low, Greer) – Forest escapes with lakes, hiking, and skiing.
- Prescott – Historic Whiskey Row, mountain trails, and a charming small-town vibe.
- Page – Base for exploring Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, and Horseshoe Bend.
Move-In Resources
Starting your journey at California Aeronautical University is an exciting milestone, and move-in day is the first step in making CAU your home away from home. To help you settle in with ease, we’ve gathered important information, tips, and resources to guide you through the process. From packing checklists and housing details to campus services and local essentials, this section is designed to ensure a smooth transition into university life.
- Twin bed and mattress
- Mattress cover
- Desk and chair
- Drawers
- Closet space
- Refrigerator
- Internet/cable access
Sleep
- Twin sheets
- Pillow(s)
- Comforter/blankets
- Fan
Organize
- Under bed storage
- Storage bins or crates
- Over-door mirror
- Gentle adhesive (3M command strips/hooks)
- Surge protector
Bathroom
- Towels
- Bathrobe
- Toiletries
- Rugs
- Waste basket
- Storage bins
Laundry/Cleaning
- Laundry bag or basket
- Soap (liquid or liquid packets only)
- Iron
- Cleaning supplies
Personal
- Tech accessories (headphones/chargers)
- Computer/printer
- Umbrella
- Flight Simulators
- Cable Splitters
- Extension Cords
- Alcohol
- Illegal Drugs/Paraphernalia
- Weapons of any kind
- Hover Boards
- Wooden Shelves
- Hotplates
- Steam Producing Appliances
- Fireworks
- Paints
- Wax Melts/Warmers
One of the first big purchases you’ll make as a student pilot is a headset—and choosing the right one makes a big difference in your training. At CAU, we’re proud to partner with Lightspeed Aviation, a leading provider of premium aviation headsets. Through this partnership, CAU students receive exclusive discounts on Lightspeed’s student pilot headsets, making it easier and more affordable to get started with high-quality equipment.
Not only will your headset keep communication clear and comfortable in the cockpit, but investing in the right gear from the start helps set you up for success throughout your training and future aviation career.
Headsets are not included in the cost of our flight programs, but can be budgeted into your funding plan- If interested talk with financial services upon enrollment.
Student Services
Student Services are designed to support learners throughout their academic journey, providing resources for academic success, personal well-being, and career preparation. These services ensure students have the tools and guidance needed to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Academic Support
- Academic advising
- Tutoring and writing centers
- Study skills workshops
Personal & Wellness Support
- Counseling and mental health services
- Health clinics or health insurance resources
- Housing and residential life support
Career & Professional Development
- Career counseling and career fairs
- Internship and job placement assistance
- Resume, cover letter, and interview prep
- Networking opportunities with employers and alumni
Student Life & Engagement
- Student organizations and clubs
- Campus activities and events
- Leadership programs
Administrative & Practical Services
- Financial aid advising
- Registrar (transcripts, enrollment verification, class registration)
- Student accounts and billing support
- Transportation, dining, and campus safety
Financial Services
Managing the cost of higher education can feel overwhelming, which is why our Financial Services team is here to guide you every step of the way. From understanding your financial aid options to setting up a payment plan, we provide resources and support designed to make your education more affordable and accessible.
- Financial Aid Counseling – Guidance on federal, state, and institutional aid options, including grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
- Scholarship Support – Information on merit-based, need-based, and external scholarships, plus help with applications.
- Financial Literacy Education – Tools and guidance on budgeting, credit basics, and responsible borrowing.
- Student Loan Guidance – Support with applying for, understanding, and managing federal or private student loans.
- Work-Study Opportunities – Help with applying for and maintaining Federal Work-Study positions.
- Tuition Payment Plans – Options to spread tuition and fee payments across installments rather than a lump sum.
- Veterans Benefits Support – Assistance with processing GI Bill® benefits, military tuition assistance, and related funding.
- Emergency Financial Assistance – Short-term loans or emergency funds for students facing unexpected financial hardships.
- Billing & Student Accounts Support – Guidance on tuition charges, fees, refunds, and account statements.
- Education Tax Guidance – Support with education-related tax forms (like the 1098-T) and eligibility for credits such as the American Opportunity or Lifetime Learning Credit.
- Special Circumstances & Appeals – Assistance with professional judgment requests, dependency overrides, and financial aid appeals.
- Loan Repayment & Default Prevention Resources – Guidance on repayment options, deferment/forbearance, and avoiding default.
- Community & External Resources– Connections to campus and community resources that support student financial wellness.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
Graduate Services
Graduate Services help alumni stay connected to the university while advancing their professional and personal goals. From career development to networking opportunities, these resources extend support well beyond graduation.
Career Support
- One-on-one career coaching for students and graduates
- Resume and cover letter development
- Interview preparation, including mock interviews
- Career path exploration and goal setting using SMART goals
- Tips for airline applications and hiring trends
- Application support for university partner cadet programs
- Graduate school application support
- Access to professional development tools, including: CareerEdge, Big Interview, and JSfirm
Job Search & Networking Resources
- Job leads and hiring opportunities through our employer network
- Access to employer events, on campus and online
- Connections through the LinkedIn Alumni Network
- Opportunities to connect with alumni mentors for informational interviews
Alumni Engagement & Recognition
- Alumni spotlight features highlighting career milestones
- Opportunities to give back through mentoring or guest speaking
- Invitations to special events, including networking receptions, panels, and university celebrations
Student Life Events
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Botanical Gardens
Smoothie Competition
Splash n’ Dash
Retro Karoake
You can find the CAU Admissions team at airshows, outreach events, open houses, and more. Come meet us at an event near you.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re just beginning to explore aviation or you’re ready to launch your journey at California Aeronautical University, we have a path for you. Choose the option that best fits where you are in your decision process:
Request Information
Just starting to explore aviation education? Request information to receive preliminary information about the University and a member of our team will follow-up to determine if CAU fits your initial needs.
Attend Aspiring Pilot Seminar
Interested in aviation, but not sure if an aviation career is right for you? The Aspiring Pilot Seminar provides information on aviation career opportunities, how to compare schools, and offers information about CAU.
Schedule Admissions Meeting
Seriously considering CAU? Schedule a one-on-one admissions meeting to discuss your goals, review program information and class schedules. This meeting, held virtually or on-campus, is a mandatory step in the admissions process and is a great opportunity to have your questions answered.
Attend Open House
Visiting the campus is one of the best ways to see what life is like as a CAU student. Tour the campus, explore our fleet of aircraft, meet faculty and staff, visit student housing (available at our main campus), and more. Open Houses are scheduled on Saturdays at each of our four locations, every other month.
Apply Online
If you've decided CAU is the right fit for you, start your application today. We'll work to expedite the admissions process for you.