Frequently Asked Questions

  • We require a minimum of a 4-year graduate level (M1) in engineering, medicine or a scientific discipline (such as physics, mechanics, electronics, etc). Equivalent qualifications in fields like medicine, biology, or geology, or a Bachelor's degree with 3 years of experience will also be considered. A C1 level of English proficiency (Mastery level) is also required. Additional education, skills or experience such as flying experience, scuba diving or sports achievements are also desirable during the selection process.

  • The full astronaut curriculum takes about a year. The various courses will be spread into several phases and schedule is subject to change. To learn more about these phases head on to our Astronaut Training page.

  • The Spaceflight Institute provides theoretical courses, as well as a large array of practical skills and coaching. Feel free to browse through our training pages for more information.

  • By following our Human Spaceflight Certificate program (Astronaut phase 1), you will obtain a graduate certificate from the French University ISAE-Supaero. After completing the entire astronaut curriculum, the SFI will provide a Commercial Astronaut Certificate that we aim to get fully certified by the regulatory authorities like the FAA.

  • The Spaceflight Institute does not guarantee a trip to space, however, this extraordinary and unique training program will allow you to enhance your profile to obtain professional opportunities in the space field. We are committed to promoting our alumni to enable them to obtain the best outcomes from their certification.

  • The groups of the practical phase are typically 6 to 8 astronaut candidates.

  • For the moment, the sessions will take place in person, although the Spaceflight Institute is studying the possibility of remote learning for certain modules of the program.

  • Our instructors are space industry or military veterans, astronauts, explorers, scientists, and engineers.

  • To pre-apply, simply click on the pre-apply button in the header of our Website. We will be in touch when the official application process starts.

  • We charge an application fee of €100. We're currently working on the best pricing possible for our learners, the final price for phase 1 will be known by the end of October.

    The price for phases 2 and 3 depends on your profile. Individual quotes will be established based on the needs of each learner.

    These costs are indicative for the academic year 2023-24 and are susceptible to change.

    For more details, please contact us.

  • We explore all opportunities for our astronaut candidates to benefit from loans, sponsorships and scholarships to follow our programs. Stay tuned!

  • The safety of our learners is our first priority. In a sector where safety defines a well-conducted operation, we must lead by example.