Since inception in 1999, the SWAPA Dependent Scholarship Fund has awarded funding to more than 250 dependents of either deceased or disabled Pilots. For more than 25 years, the scholarship fund has continued to support Pilot families in need through the generous donations of the SWAPA Pilot membership.

What Is the SWAPA Dependent Scholarship Fund?

The scholarship program is a voluntary Pilot-supported fund created to assist the educational needs of SWAPA Pilot and staff member families affected by unfortunate circumstances. Inspired by the legacy of Eddie Lowe, a young Southwest Airlines Pilot whose career-ending accident later ended his life leaving behind a young wife and family, the Dependent Scholarship Fund supports eligible full-time students with a maximum scholarship of $7,000 per school year. The award is disbursed in equal installments for the fall and spring semesters.

Find out if you are eligible. Review the guidelines to apply if you are a dependent of SWAPA Pilot or SWAPA employee.

How to Apply

If you are an eligible dependent of a disabled or deceased SWAPA Pilot or staff member, please start by filling out the online application.

Important dates to keep in mind:
February 1 to April 30: Application window
May 31: Scholarship award recipients announced
June 1 to July 31: Window for applicants deemed ineligible to dispute

How to Donate

The Scholarship is a voluntary, Pilot-supported plan currently sustained wth a $2 contribution per month.

If you would like to make a one-time donation, please fill out the online donation form.

SWAPA Dependent Scholarship Stories
Learn more about how the Pilot-funded scholarship has supported Pilot families in sending scholars to further their education.
First Scholarship Recipient Chosen
Chloe Horan, Dependent Scholarship Fund Recipient
Ensuring His Family Is Taken Care Of
25 Years of Supporting the Future of SWAPA Families
Dependent Scholarship: John Merritt
Dependent Scholarship Recipient: Kelly Pum

*Tax Disclosure
: The SWAPA Dependent Scholarship Fund is a tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. (EIN 75-2831556) Contributions to the SWAPA Dependent Scholarship Fund are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. Please consult your tax professional for further information. 

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