As someone who has attended Oshkosh multiple times, I learned everything about what student pilots can gain from this event through firsthand experience. Probably should have led with this: the 2026 EAA AirVenture runs July 28 through August 3, and if you are considering attending, start planning now because camping spots fill quickly.
Why Students Should Consider Going
AirVenture offers daily forums specifically designed for student pilots. Topics include checkride preparation, choosing an aircraft, and career planning. That has gotten complicated with all the options available these days, but these forums help cut through the noise. All forums are free with general admission, which makes them accessible to students on tight budgets.
Getting There
Flying into OSH during the event requires familiarity with NOTAM procedures – this is not the time to learn complex arrival procedures. Most students drive or fly commercially to Appleton and shuttle over. That is what makes this approach sensible for pilots still building experience.
Registration opens March 1. Early bird pricing ends May 15.
