Index
-
Admission Procedures
(All courses)
Q:
What are the steps or process for admission?
-
Click
below to download the specific Admissions Procedures you require:
Index
ADX
Test & Test Preparation
Q: According to some Sheffield graduates, they highly recommend taking
the FAA ADX knowledge test before attending Sheffield. Is this the same
as the ATP written exam?
A: No. The ADX (Aircraft Dispatcher) Knowledge test is similar to the
ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) Knowledge test, but is separate with regard
to the licensing requirements. An applicant for an Aircraft Dispatcher
Certificate must pass (>70%) the ADX test. An Airmen report of a
passed ATP test is of no use to a Dispatcher applicant.
Q: Do you recommend passing the FAA ADX knowledge test before going
to Sheffield?
A: It is recommended to study and prepare as much as possible ahead
of time; however, we do NOT mandate passing the ADX before the first
day of the full-time 5-week class. That would be unreasonable to ask
students with little or no aviation background to be able to pass (and
somewhat understand) the ADX test. Some prestudy would be good to do
to get a feel for the material, but do not worry if you do not understand
many topics or why certain answers are correct, etc..It will make more
sense once you are here in class.
Q:
When do you recommend to take the ADX test? Before class starts or within
the first two weeks?
A: 95-100% of a typical class takes the ADX test during the first 4
weeks of the class while at Sheffield's 5-week course. The earlier the
better, whether before the class starts or during the first couple of
weeks. Just don't get discouraged with trying to learn some of the numerical
problems - we'll show you many of the "calculation" type problems
in electronic workshops that you will have access to once enrolled in
the course, even before you arrive. We recommend applying for the course
early enough to gain online access and "pre-study" for a few
weeks before your first day of class. The majority of students end up
taking the test during the 3rd or 4th week of the course.
Q: What material should I get and how do I arrange to take this exam?
A: The Gleim
ATP test book is what we use in the course for a limited time. Again,
the book is referred to as "ATP", but the "ADX"
material is embedded within it's pages to help the Dispatcher applicant
pass the applicable Knowledge test. We also recommend the many study
links and practice tests found at: http://www.sheffield.com/FAA_test_prep.html
www.catstest.com
and www.lasergrade.com
provides testing locations for you.
If you cannot buy or order a Gleim ATP test prep book ahead of time, then use our
ADX
Test Supplement Book (FAA-CT-8080-7C) - All figures/tables/graphs/maps
as seen on the actual test
(a bookmarked, easy-to-navigate
22mb pdf file)- NEW
[ID/password required-email us for pdf password to open file.]
Q: I was just concerned about when during the course is this test covered
and how everyone successfully memorized everything? You told me on the
phone that not much class time is spent on the ADX test itself.
A: During the early portion of the course, we conduct one to two 30-60 minute workshops
which only cover "flight log calculation" type problems. The
other problems which includes questions with numbers as well as the
instrument questions are covered electronically on a password-protected
part of our web site. This technique is producing a high pass rate with
an average score between 80 and 90%. The nationwide average in 2000
was 80%. If Sheffield would spend the entire first 3-4 weeks on ADX
test preparation, your score would probably increase 1-3% at most, but
we wouldn't have time to instruct true dispatcher material. This would
endanger your chances to succeed in Airline Initial training. That is
only one of the reasons why we have such a popular reputation among
the airlines.
Q: I looked ahead at the (Gleim) chapters 9, 10, & 11 and it worried
me as to how I can pass this Knowledge exam in the five weeks without
having any knowledge about instrument flight and all the complicated
maps, A/FDs and legends, etc.
A: One electronic workshop covers the HSI/RMI questions step-by-step.
We'll show you an easy method to getting the correct answer, but we
must emphasize that these questions should never have been placed on
the ADX test. A dispatcher must be familiar with Instrument flight basics,
but NOT ridiculous tricky pilot questions. So if you never really understand
what you are doing on some of these "red book" questions,
it won't matter since much of the content is irrelevant with respect
to the Airline Dispatcher.
Q: Is it that the 500+ questions you have set aside the big key to passing
it or does one just have to have exceptional memory and knowledge of
all those areas in the study guide before attending?
A: The 500+ list is all you need. Any other questions not on that list,
but found on the actual test would usually be repetitive or a rewording
of what you're already studying. There can always be different questions
on the actual test that are not on the 500+ list, but we haven't had
anybody fail the test who knew the entire 500+ list.
Q:
What happens when failing this test?
A: You either must wait 30 days for a retake or be tutored (our tutoring
is computerized and costs $100) and approved for the retake. We basically
run you through a series of practice quizzes, then allow you to take
the test a 2nd time when we can reschedule you. There is now a required
cost of $150 for any retake - a recent rule change that we were informed
about in early 2010.
Q:
So it will cost me $250.00 to retake the ADX test if failed?
A:
Yes. Fortunately, very few fail it, but if you can't pass this basic
"memory excercise", knowing all the questions, answers, and
possible choices ahead of time, with instruction and practice provided,
then there are other issues.
Q: I know you mentioned the 500+ list would be sufficient and I went
through the entire study guide and circled those questions to study
but on your online
quizzes, a lot of the other non-500+ questions were on the quiz.
I didn't understand that and it makes me wonder if I truly must know
all 1700-1800 questions (the entire study book).
A: The online quizzes are my attempt to put all 1700+ questions into
quiz form; in other words, don't worry if you encounter and miss a few
questions that are not on the reduced 500+ list. If you can answer all
the questions on the 500+ list, you will pass the ADX test.
Q:
If I know only 70% of the 500+ list, will I pass the ADX test?
A:
No. Learn the entire list before attempting the actual test.
Q:
How many questions are on the ADX test?
A:
80, but you may receive 1-2 additional "experimental" questions
which will not count.
Q:
Also do you know of some good reference materials for the ADX test?
A: Our web site has a good reference page:
http://www.sheffield.com/FAA_test_prep.html
You can also order the ATP test prep book from Gleim
– the “ADX” questions for the ADX test are embedded
in this book.
Q: I've recently finished making arrangements with you for enrollment
in the 5-week Dispatcher course. One question that I have right now
is in regard to the ADX knowledge examination. May I complete the examination
at a CATS center near me before showing up for the first day of classes
or do you recommend that we take it there in FLL after classes start?
A: Although you’ll probably have to pay $135-150 for the ADX test
at a testing center, which is included in your 5-week course tuition
here at Sheffield, I would get it out of the way before arriving at
school, ONLY IF YOU ARE READY TO TAKE THE TEST a few
weeks or more prior to the start of class. Otherwise, take it at Sheffield
as 95-100% of typical classes do. Also,
without tutoring, there is a 90-day waiting period
before RETAKES. Please understand, that 5-week course
students typically DO NOT take this test before arrival at Sheffield
- it is RARE, so don't worry about it if you cannot do so - you are
normal!
Index
Age
Q: Is there an age limit for enrollment, I'm 53 years
old?
A: No. In fact, knowledgeable hiring managers should view maturity as
a "plus." You may encounter perhaps
one in three managers who are too young to understand that concept.
A manager should ask to see your dispatcher certificate,
and ask if you attended Sheffield School, verify that fact, then test
you prior to an interview, etc.. I'd rather hire
a wiser mature person who studies hard and is motivated, than a younger
individual who is bright, but more interested in the local bar scene.
Index
AIFP Course (International Procedures)
Q:
When is this course taught?
A:
Following the 5-week course. See Calendar.
Q:
What is the tuition?
A: $500.00 for Sheffield graduates. $750.00 for non-Sheffield graduates.
Q:
What is the duration of the course?
A: 2 days.
Q:
Does any other school teach an international flight planning course
with a separate ETOPs
course?
A: To the best of our knowledge, no. There are those who claim to "teach"
the same course "for free" in a half day. They've titled the
course: "ETOPs", then "International", then "ETOPs/International
planning", then simply abandoned the course, etc..They will list
subjects that Sheffield covers during the regular 5-week course. We
also have a separate ETOPs
course due to the volume of material covered. You can sample
a morsel, or purchase the 5-course meal. I
know one course operator who will tell the students what the letters
E-T-O-P-S stands for....and that's about it..
Q: Is it mandatory to enroll in this class?
A: No. A graduate of the 5-week or an accelerated course may enroll
at any time.
Q: What percentage of your graduates enroll in this class?
A: It has ranged from 20-90%, with a median of approximately 30-40%.
Q: What subjects are covered?
- A:
ICAO, International references and publications, Definitions &
Abbreviations, NOTAM and SNOTAM codes, En Route/Special/Flight planning/Jeppesen
charts, Computer flight planning analysis, Simulation scenarios,
Geography, regional and terminal Climatology, ICAO Annex' 3 and
6 discussion and application, Navigation with ETP emphasis and application,
use of the International Flight Information Manual (IFIM) including
the ICAO flight plan form & North American Routing selection,
detailed MNPSA/NAT principles and selection with the significance
of amended clearances, Redispatching, Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic
flight planning including oceanic procedures, route and altitude
planning, en route procedures/communications, diversion procedures,
emergency procedures, terminal procedures, and common waypoint errors
to avoid.
Q: By taking this course, will I enhance my job opportunities?
A: Perhaps. Many hiring managers realize what we teach is a great
introduction to international planning have hired many Sheffield
graduates ahead of others based on their motivation to learn more.
Other hiring managers may be indifferent due to their domestic type
of operation or their own personal experiences. If you plan to work
an international desk one day, this course is an excellent introduction
to basic priciples combined with advanced concepts.
- Index
Aircraft Dispatcher Career
Q:
What is the definition of "Aircraft Dispatcher?"
A:
There is no official definition of "Aircraft Dispatcher", which we find
appalling. The Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) Part I provide definitions
for various crewmembers, but not the person who is equally responsible
with the Pilot-in-command (PIC) for the safety of the flight. You'll
find descriptions of a Dispatcher which are simply listings of responsibilities
to some definitions as general as "..a person holding a dispatch certificate..".
One of our former practical examiners, the late great Mr.
Leon Jansen, petitioned the FAA to incorporate his definition of
"Aircraft Dispatcher" into the FARs.
Q:
What is an Aircraft Dispatcher and what are their responsibilities?
A: They are occasionally referred to as the "Captain on the ground."
The dispatcher is jointly responsible with the Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
for the safe planning and monitoring of an FAR Part 121 Air Carrier
operation. The dispatcher plans the flight by taking into consideration
the current and forecast weather, NOTAMS (Notices to Airmen), ATC delays
and severe weather avoidance plans, volcanic ash advisories, fuel requirements
as well as other factors to ensure a safe and comfortable flight for
the crew and passengers. Once the Captain and Dispatcher agree that
the flight can be completed safely according to the flight plan, both
individuals will sign a Dispatch Release (a company authorization to
operate a flight).
Q: What is the difference between an Air Traffic Controller and an Aircraft
Dispatcher and where do they work?
A: An Air Traffic Controller is mainly responsible for the separation
of air traffic operating to and from airports. An Aircraft Dispatcher
does not directly provide separational control over aircraft, but coordinates
with Air Traffic Control, Flight Service personnel, aircraft crew scheduling,
maintenance control, and various company ground stations. An Air Traffic
Controller usually will be located in either a control tower at an airport
or at one of several enroute centers. An Aircraft Dispatcher will usually
work at, or near, the company's headquarters such as Delta Airlines
in Atlanta, and United Airlines in Chicago).
-
-
Federal Express Operational
Command (Control) Center
-
Q: What is the minimum age to be an Aircraft Dispatcher?
A: The minimum age for certification as an Aircraft Dispatcher is 23
years. An individual can begin a training class at the age of 21 and
take the computer based FAA Aircraft dispatcher Knowledge exam (the
ADX, formerly referred to as "written exam").
Q: What is the maximum age to be an Aircraft Dispatcher?
A:
There is no maximum age limitation to become an Aircraft Dispatcher.
We have had students in their upper 50s as well as one who was 62 attend
our course with success.
Q:
Are there employment opportunities for graduates over 40 years of age?
A:
(From a grad to prospective student)
"I am 48 now, and went to school and got my job at age 47. There
were several people my age at Sheffield. (The best school by far after
detailed investigation.)"
Q:
Why are Aircraft Dispatchers required for certain operations?
A: They perform preflight planning, preparing and signing a Dispatch
Release (an authorization to operate), monitoring the flight progress,
informing the PIC of significant operational information, canceling/delaying
of the flight, among a few other duties. They are essentially a "Pilot-on-Ground".
This concept of the Airline Dispatch system is based on the "checks
& balances" system (a safety margin); simply put, "two heads are
better than one".
|
Q:
What annual salary can I expect to receive?
A:
Initially, $28K to $32K at a regional airline; however, the
high end with major airlines is up to $80K-100+K with flight
privileges and other typical benefits. Just do not expect to
start with a major airline. |
|
Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate
Q:
How does an individual attain a Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate (license)?
A: The individual must meet certification requirements found in Federal
Aviation Regulations Part 65. These regulations indicate that an applicant
for the Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate must:
- pass
an FAA ADX Knowledge exam.
- pass
an FAA-approved Aircraft Dispatcher course, or meet "Experience"
requirements.
- pass
a Practical exam which consists of 2 sections: Flight Plan &
Oral.
FAA
Airline Dispatcher Certificate
Q:
Is formal schooling the most efficient method of attaining the required
"Experience" requirements?
A:
Yes, without a single doubt. Regulations FAA
Part 65 allow a substitution
of credit for prior aviation-related experience. A school (or FAA examiner)
may subjectively give credit for almost any remotely-related aviation
experience. Those who attain the license in this manner may have a difficult
time gaining employment with any respectable airline, or have a difficult
time during initial training. If the experience is genuine with respect
to airline dispatching, these individuals should merge into a company
easily.
Aircraft Dispatcher Course (200 hours/5 weeks)
Q: Some
schools claim to have a near 100% pass rate. Is this correct?
A: Some schools will pass anyone to hang on to the almighty dollar.
We would rather cut a refund check periodically to someone who didn't
put forth the effort than to have our 60+ year reputation tarnished
by becoming a license mill. Be wary of schools claiming "come have fun
- our class is a breeze." During an interview, you are unlikely
to hear this question "So did you have a lot of fun?" Our students enjoy
the class, typically state that it exceeded their expectations, and
that they never learned so much in their lives. Typically, our graduates
are hired while they are still in class or within a few weeks of graduation.
Another important fact is this - most graduates are seeking employment.
Many come to us once they do their homework and learn directly from
an airline that a student's "hiring-quotient" will escalate if they
choose a highly reputable school. Many airlines interview first (or
exclusively) at our school because they know every graduate has been
thoroughly prepared, and there won't be any surprises when they begin
training on the job.
Passing
anybody and everybody after numerous repeated attempts, or due to lack
of any testing, only dilutes this industry with unqualified "dispatchers"
and is a blight on the profession. Statements of guarantees are an abomination
and should be stripped from all advertising by those who have the ability
and wherewithall to do so. These mills should be publicly condemned.
Can
you imagine taking a taxi ride to an airport from a guy who can't drive
(we know this happens), then board an airplane that has been signed
off by maintenance personnel who are inept or who haven't been checked
properly by their governing authority (we've read the news in 2008),
only to be flown by a captain who has had numerous failures during his
or her flight training (it happens), who has had his flight planned
by a dispatcher who failed his course with a 30%, then bought his certificate
at a diploma mill within 2-3 days (YES- it has happened). Hopefully,
this won't scare you into an anxiety attack. If so, you could visit
your doctor who received his diploma...,well, you get the point.
You
will EARN your certificate at Sheffield. Why should others be handed
the same honor?! It only increases YOUR workload - ask any competent
dispatcher.
[June
2010 note: now one new startup school in our area claims "once
you pass the course you get a license." Aside from being misleading
and inaccurate, it is illegal. Passing a Part 65 FAA-approved course
enables the applicant to take the FAA practical exam. Once THAT is passed,
the applicant becomes certificated.
So be wary of the unscrupulous operators out there. The same course
operator tried to list one of Sheffield's graduates as an instructor
to appeal to the FAA. The problem was my graduate did not give the course
operator permission to do so.]
Q: What can I study prior to attending your school?
A: Do
not purchase regulations books and the Aeronautical Information
Manual (AIM) to read through and study (as I've seen recommended on
the internet). Without proper guidance, you may waste valuable time
or misinterpret something. A good portion of subject matter discussed
and applied in class is not found in commercially-available books.
To help prepare for the course, study the FAA knowledge material on
our web site. That is not really what our course is about - self study
- but it will give you a head start in preparing for the FAA ADX test.
Other than that, you can visit our "aviation
bookstore" online and check out the weather books since we
apply a lot of weather in the course. We don't really supply FAA books
in the course since you can get them for free on the Internet. We write
our own manuals and sections to study. For some free books, go to "dispatcher
resources" on our site and you can link to Regulations,
Weather circulars (Aviation Weather Services) from the FAA, and the
Aeronautical Information Manual. All are helpful information to browse
through or print out to give you an idea of the type of material involved
in the course.
If you want to pursue regulations ahead of time, the main sections are
FAR Part 121 - Subparts T & U. These subparts contains
the majority of dispatch rules and procedures that you will apply in
the course and on the job.
Q: How many students usually enroll in the course?
A: Between 12 and 25. The average is probably 18. If you check our class
pictures, you'll notice that the enrollment numbers are usually consistent.
It is comforting to see that many people do their research and make
the correct choice. We admire these students who crave a quality education.
On graduation day, their faces say it all - that they have just earned
something very special in this industry: A
diploma from Sheffield School of Aeronautics!
Q: How long is the program and what does it cost?
A: The Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Course is 5 weeks long and
covers at least 200 hours of classroom instruction (as required by Federal
Aviation Regulations). The total cost is $4,700.00. This includes textbooks,
the computer ADX examination fee (normally $150.00 if taken privately)
and the Practical Exam (in 201 only1; $300 in 2012),
web site passwords, job assistance and airline lists, and computer use.
Q: Are textbooks/notebooks included? What books will be used?
A: Sheffield has produced it's own textbook binder which relies on FAA
sources as well as Airline material. All books are included in the tuition
fee. If a person is interested in jump-starting their weather studies
prior to attending our course the following textbook are highly recommended
since meteorology (weather) with reports/forecast reading and application
comprises over 35% of the total academic subjects: Aviation
Weather Advisory Circular -
(this is a password-protected PDF file of the entire book which you
can print. Password available after applying to school.)
Q: What are the main subjects that are covered in the program?
A: Meteorology (weather), Navigation, Air Traffic Control, Jeppesen
Approach charts and enroute charts, Aeronautical Information Manual,
Aircraft Systems, Performance and Weight and Balance, Federal Aviation
Regulations, Communications, and Practical Flight planning applications
are included subjects in our Aircraft Dispatcher Course.
Q: Do all schools teach the same material?
A: No. All FAR Part 65 schools must adhere to their basic curriculum
guidelines; however, Sheffield decided long ago to provide extra airline-related
material to ease our graduates transition into airline initial training.
We do not believe in telling our students "Don't worry about
that - your airline will teach you that." Granted, there are some
topics that we cannot teach since it is not only the responsibility
of the airline, but each airline may have a different FAA approval for
how they apply certain procedures. But there are MANY topics, scenarios,
etc. that our students are exposed to that have impressed many airline
hiring managers. Just check our testimonials!
Q: How soon into the program is the first test?
A: Friday of the first week is a test on Weather Theory. It is a Sheffield-produced
test. Much (but not all) of the material comes from Chapters
1-13 of the link below (AC 00-6A Aviation Weather). We will spend
the first week refining what we would like you to understand.
Aviation
Weather Advisory Circular.
(password-protected
PDF file. Password available after applying to school.)
Q: What are the class start dates?
A: Course
schedule.
Q: What are the class hours?
A: Classes will normally be held from 8:00am until 5:00pm, weekdays.
There will be short breaks throughout the day and a one-hour break for
lunch.
Q: How
do I apply for the course?
A:
Locate the application online, complete it and mail it with the application
fee. Visit the "Courses"
page which has the applications, admissions procedures, etc.. for each
type of course we offer.
You can fax, mail, or email an application. The application
fee should accompany the application or follow it soon after, if arriving
separately.
Aircraft
Dispatcher Course (3 weeks)
Q: How long is the course?
A: 3 weeks; approximately 120 hours.
Q: What is the cost?
A:
$4,000 for the tuition and registration fee. The
practical exams are included in the tuition.
Q: Does this include housing?
A:
No; however, we can facilitate
your housing
arrangements.
Q: What subject matter are covered?
A: Generally, the same topics listed in the 5-week
course, with about 2 weeks worth
of the material learned online prior to arrival at Sheffield. Also,
there are no FAA
Knowledge test workshops conducted
since a prerequisite for the course is to pass the FAA standardized
test prior to the start date of the course.
Q:
Why did you start a reduced hours residency course?
A: We were receiving numerous requests for a shorter "non-matchbook"
course. Interested students were complaining about price and were desiring
a true quality education, not a quickie handout. We also have the technological
capability to facilitate quality learning in a short period of time.
We are continually modifying our computer supplements for students.
Q: What is the class schedule?
A: Check the
Aircraft
Dispatcher - 3-week course page or our Calendar
page for further details. We usually hold 6 classes a year.
Q: How does one qualify to enroll in this course?
A: Previous aviation experience or online lessons successfully completed
are mandatory per the FAR Part 65 regulations. Flight, meteorology,
airline operational experience are common examples. We are permitted
to subjectively approve an individual's experience. But
if you have little or no experience and are willing to meet the prerequisites
listed on the course
page, you are welcome into this class as well.
Q:
Will graduating from a reduced residency hours course affect my employment
opportunities?
A: That depends on the company hiring you or the individual interviewing
you, or both. Most companies care about hiring a well-educated individual;
someone who won't have to be retrained. The companies that deal directly
or exclusively with us realize that any graduate from Sheffield (longer
or shorter courses) is better trained and better qualified to enter
Airline initial training. We have NEVER heard
of any Sheffield graduate encountering any problem with course "duration."
Based on the online work required, many students work MORE than 5 weeks
cumulatively towards their certification.
- Q:
Can the international (AIFP),
ETOPs,
and EWINS
training courses be taken immediately following the 3-week course?
A:
Yes.
Aircraft Dispatcher Course (2 weeks)
Q:
Who should enroll in the 2-week course?
A:
Experienced indivividuals/airlines (per FAR 65.57) or highly motivated
individuals who are able to pass the ADX exam and 7 online modules prior
to arrival for the 2 weeks residency.
Q: Is the FAA license recognized worldwide, or just in North America?
I am hoping to stay in North America/Canada once qualified, but if I
need to return to the UK, how easily can this license be converted (if
it needs to be at all)?
A: It is recognized in many countries/airlines, yet it’s validity
as a license varies among CAAs around the world. You’ll have to
specifically ask the country’s CAA or airline.
Q:
I am extemely interested in applying for a 2 week accelerated course.
Is this route of study open to international students and if so what
is the processing fee for the I-20 form?
A: Yes, it is open to qualified students, domestic or international.
If entering on a M-1 student visa, our procedures will be sent to you
upon application or when you inquire by email. The I-20 fee is $200.00.
Q: How should I send you a copy of my information?
A: Fax or mail is fine.
Q:
One school kept pressuring me to take their accelerated course even
after I claimed that I was uncomfortable with my limited aviation experience
and ability to pass the ADX exam. What should I do?
A: Seek training at another facility. They're sole interest is $$$;
it certainly is not to provide a quality education.
Aircraft Dispatcher Course (Distance Learning/Residency)
Q:
Do you offer a 5-day course?
A: We do not offer a 5-day only course - that is not
adequate time to learn and prepare for a legitimate FAA practical examination,
regardless of experience. We offer 4 months of online access to complete
10 different modules of our course, then offer a 5-day residency course
to complete the knowledge and skill requirements to be signed off by
an instructor for the FAA practical examination.
It
is by no means a spoon-feeding "Q & A" session with zero time spent
on practical concepts. Not
every student completes the online work satisfactorily - some have trouble
being approved by the instructor for the practical exam. This is typically
due to procrastination during the online phase. Some students request
more online time, then succeed.
We recently had a Sheffield graduate with approximately 10 years operational
experience in the military. His job interviewer (with nearly identical
experience) explained how his 5 day course was "all review and easy".
Our graduate's reply: "I received about 3 hours of "review"
during my course." As
previously mentioned, you do not arrive at Sheffield for spoon-feeding,
you are still learning and applying new material during a large portion
of the 5-day period.
Index
Aircraft type(s) used in course
Q: What kinds of aircraft do you have for hands-on study and
familiarization?
A: We use the performance-crippled B727-200, an excellent example for
learning purposes and manual flight planning. We also allow the full-time
students access to a variety of aircraft on the computer.
Index
Airlines - Major vs. Regional (soon)
Index
Application (Registration)
Q: What is the Application or Admissions process?
A: It depends on the length of course you're taking and if you are a
U.S. student or International student. Click the pull-down menu below
to read or print the appropriate pdf file.
Click
below to download the specific Admissions Procedures you require:
Q: Where is the application?
A: It is included in the mailed information packet. If you need to request
the information packet, go to www.sheffield.com –“catalog
request” – and fill out the form online. The
application can be downloaded from the "courses"
page as well.
Index
Arrival Instructions
Q:
When are arrival instructions sent to me, housing confirmation, etc..?
A:
Approximately, one week prior to your class start date, you should receive
an email from us. If not, email or call us anytime.
Index
Career Change (soon)
Index
Catalog Request
Q: How do I request a Catalog to be mailed?
A:
Visit www.sheffield.com
–“catalog
request” – and complete and submit the form.
Index
Class Schedule
Q: Where are the class schedules?
A: Visit
www.sheffield.com
–“calendar”
or visit the "courses"
pages.
Index
Class Seating Availability
Q:
How many seats are in your classroom?
A:
Approximately 25. Call anytime to check for the updated number of seats
remaining.
Q:
How early should I apply?
A:
If you are an international student requiring a visa, perhaps 2-3 months
prior to the class start date. If you are a domestic student or an international
student requiring Sheffield housing, perhaps 4-6 weeks prior to the
class start date.
Index
Class size
Q: How many students may be in the 5-week class?
A: A maximum of 25.
Q: I just got ----ed (taken advantage of) by a
school who cancelled the class at the very last moment because they
"didn't have enough students." Does Sheffield conduct this
practice?
A:
No. When we publish class dates, they are firm, unless an emergency
exists (death/sickness/hurricane, etc..). Some schools have a minimum
of 12 policy which results in cancellations many times. We know since
we welcomed their dumped-upon students at Sheffield. One other school
on the east coast of Florida cancelled a class because "my foreign
students didn't get their visa." They put out a U.S. student who
had just taken a large loan and had no where to go, but....Sheffield
School. Our minimum is "1", although we tend to have one or
more from a variety of countries.
Index
Climate
in South Florida
Q: I would like to know what is the weather will
be like while attending your school so I can prepare my clothing.?
A: Following are the monthly normal mean temperatures in our area:
January = 68°F, February = 69°F, March = 72°F, April = 76°F,
May = 80°F, June = 82°F, July = 84°F, August = 84°F,
September = 82°F, October = 79°F, November = 74°F, December
= 70°F. The normal high and low temperatures are respectively 77°F
and 60°F in January and 91°F and 77°F in July. If you're
unfamiliar with °F, you can use the converter below to view the
corresponding °C temperatures.
Computer Flight Planning (CFP):
Q:
Do all schools offer computer flight planning?
A:
No. It appears that Sheffield school is the only school which not only
offers our students exposure to computer flight planning, but can show
3 different systems as well as Aircraft situation display.
Q:
But isn't computer flight planning a part of the job!?
A:
Yes. We believe that the students should at least have some exposure
to how the systems generally operate, with more attention paid to interpreting
the flight planning results. In other words, we're not producing button-pushers,
but well-rounded graduates who have learned the inner workings of manual
flight planning and were given an opportunity to supplement that knowledge
and apply it on a computer.
Q:
Why don't other schools offer CFP?
A:
Most cannot afford the computers and the upkeep. Many do not have the
classroom space because they don't use an actual classroom - they rent
conference rooms and crowd everyone around a single table. A few may
have the space, but no computers or instructors knowledgeble enough
to instruct the computer's use. One school whose parent company actually
developed a flight planning software engine actually claims (or claimed
at one time) on their web site that there's no time in the curriculum
to insert computer flight planning - absolutely absurd. Some amusing
"classroom" pictures at other "schools" show a few
students around a conference table eating fast-food without a computer
in sight. Some rent conference rooms at airline conference centers to
imply that their school is somehow endorsed or linked with the airline
- sure :)....it's easy to verify anyone's claims or implications - just
call around and ask.
Index
Contacting Schools:
Q:
Can I contact you with additional questions?
A:
Absolutely! You can email or call anytime. (Some schools' operators
can only be contacted during the evening hours and only at home.) Just
call us toll free anytime at 1-800-843-8289. You are welcome to email
your questions as well.
Index
Couples/Family members:
Q:
I'd like to bring my wife/kids. Do you recommend that?
A: No. Too distracting. Too much time diverted from studying. Increased
chance of failure.
Index
Course Costs/Fees:
Q: What are all the courses' costs & fees?
A: Visit: Prices web page
or each course's web page.
Index
Course description (5 weeks):
Q: What is the course like? Describe it.
A: Visit that course's
web page. Other versions
that are shorter also exist.
Index
Course differences (5 weeks/3 weeks/2
weeks/ & DL5 (Blended learning):
Q: What are the basic differences between all the courses?
A: visit courses
that explain the prerequisites for the shorter classes.
Index
Course duration:
Q: How long is the course?
A: Regular full-time course is 5 weeks. Other
versions (less residency training) that are shorter also exist - all fall under a 200-hour FAA approval.
Index
Competition:
Q: Which schools do you consider serious competition?
A: None. With over 64 years of experience in this particular certification
field, with other schools' graduates requesting technical help, job
assistance; airlines requesting assistance with their manuals, and more
testimonials from worldwide airlines and individuals emailed and posted
every month, including former instructors at other schools singing our
praises, Sheffield considers no other school to be on the same playing
field with us. Even the
FAA says we go beyond the FAA required basics with our instruction.
Index
Course Names: (soon)
Index
Course Payment:
Q:
What forms of payment do you accept?
A:
Assume most every form possible except a personal check.
Credit card (MC/VISA/Discover), U.S. bank/travellers'/certified/airline checks,
wiring, cash, etc..
Index
Delta
Air Lines/ATL location: (soon)
Index
Dispatch Office Visits:
Q: Do students get to visit an airline dispatch office
and ATC center?
A: Visits are possible. Spirit Airlines has one local dispatch office
and we have toured Miami center in the past. The Dispatch tour would
be on a weekend most likely to avoid losing course instruction hours.
For the time we spent on one earlier visit, we didn't feel the Center
visit provided any additional information than a few well-produced videos
that we had for the class. Visits can be arranged on an individual basis
as well. Most classes do not tour any location, and we cannot guarantee
any visits.
Index
Distance Learning:
Q:
Do you offer a full-time distance learning course?
A:
No. We offer more of a "blended-learning" course - details.
There are other blended-learning options found on the courses page. It is not legal to operate a FULLY online-based course due to lack of
FAA oversight and the logistics of the required FAA practical exam,
which must be face-to-face.
Index
Dress Code:
Q: Is there a dress code for class attendance?
A: Yes - casual, but no tank tops or open-toe shoes. Shorts are fine.
Class may be a bit chilly. If you’re sensitive, bring a sweater.
Most students are quite comfortable.
Index
English
Q:
How do I know if my English is proficient enough to take your course?
A:
We recommend a score of at least 550 & above on the TOEFL test,
if you have doubts. You are not required to take this test, but to enroll,
you must agree that you understand that as a student you must be able
to read, write, understand, and write English adequately.
Index
Enrollment Procedures
Q:
How do I enroll in a class?
Click
below to download the specific Admissions Procedures you require:
Index
ETOPS
Q:
Do all of your graduates attend the ETOPS course?
A: No, approximately 30-50% typically attend the course following graduation.
Some attend at a later date.
Q. What is the duration and cost of the course?
A: One day and $300, respectively. ETOPS
is FREE when enrolled in the AIFP
& EWINS courses.
Q:
Why do you charge for this course while another school claims it should
be free or claim to include this same material in their full course?
A:
We actually have material to teach. We have a live instructor to give
scenarios concerning complex situations. We have the ability to answer
questions and alter our given examples with overhead slides as well
as graphically planning multiple ETOPs flights on our computers. The
student receives valuable feedback.
You
won't be placed in front of a terminal to "teach yourself."
You won't be waiting for "beeps" to move on. CBT courses are
substitute courses for schools without the ability and/or manpower to
be creative and instruct. Those courses SHOULD be free. You get what
you pay for.
We'd love for these misleading "free" or "included"
courses to vanish, but we gladly accept GRADUATES from other schools
to attend our course. I receive the emailed requests every month. They
want to become more marketable. There's a difference in knowing what
ETOPS stands for and how to amend an en route alternate while your airplane
is over the middle of the ocean or desert.
Q:
Do you provide an ETOPs manual with your course as a reference?
A:
Absolutely! We supply a thick manual for all our courses along with
extra plotting charts, enroute charts, orientation charts, flight planning
charts, weather and computer flight plan printouts.
Q:
Do other schools offer the same?
A:
We don't know what is currently provided, if anything. No other school
seems interested in advertising what they provide or don't. We did have
a graduate of another school attend our accelerated course (you can
deduce why) and show us his ETOPS manual booklet. It's under
the arrow in the picture below - look close. It is sandwiched by our
AIFP notebook (left) and ETOPS notebook (right).
Then again,
the only paper you may receive is the completion certificate. Just ask
if you need to draw comparisons.
Q:
Do you provide a completion certificate?
A: Yes.
Q:
I've talked to some airlines that claim ETOPs can be taught at the airline
if I need it. Why should I take your course?
A:
Until the airlines (there have been many) stop calling Sheffield for
the answers to ETOPS questions, you should consider learning good habits
and creative thinking by attending our course. In
addition, many airlines, including the former head of Operations at
a large international airline told us that he personally appreciated
Sheffield teaching ETOPS before the graduates enter airline training.
Q:
Can you give an example of a typical question that is debated within
the industry?
A:
Let's just say there are a lot of viewpoints concerning the application
of "maximum diversion
time" on a flight plan, as well as alternate minimum calculations
and critical fuel assumptions. There were also
recent policies written which are now under review based on questions
and recommendations made by Sheffield School in 2008. These points are
brought up in class to help prepare the student with how to address
these issues and seek guidance at their future airline.
Q:
Do all schools teach ETOPS?
A: No. In fact, some of those schools that do not, will not,
or can not instruct this course attempt to dismiss ETOPs or try
to criticize us for doing something original. Other schools simply try
to copy us. If they can't copy us, they try to discredit training that
is valuable whether you dispatch ETOPs or not early in your career.
Recently we've been criticized by yet another dispatch-school-wannabe
that is non-FAA-approved, has no permanent location, has no staff, and
is one of three different spinoffs from another school which has been
in business approximately 4 decades less than Sheffield.
Feel free to browse our testimonials.
Ask yourself why:
is
one airline to attend our course.
(see our Newsletter)
Index
Extra classes in FLL
Q: If I wanted to take the AIFP, EWINS and ETOPS classes after the certification
class, is that possible?
A: Yes. You can enroll at anytime.
Index
FAA Approvals:
Q:
Is Sheffield School of Aeronautics FAA-approved?
A:
Yes. Longer than any other dispatcher school in the world.
Q:
Does FAA-approval guarantee quality?
A:
No. Do your homework when researching and selecting
schools.
Index
FAA
Investigations and Oversight:
Q:
One school I considered claimed they are FAA-approved and have had no
inspection problems, so "we're as good as anybody."
A: We always point to graduate ability/competence and airline opinion
to counter this absurd statement. When we hear consistent statements
from airlines such as "Sheffield grads are self-starters"
or "We don't need to pamper the Sheffield graduates" or "I'm
never dealing with that school again!", that tells us we're doing
the right thing. When other schools' graduates request "refresher"
training from Sheffield and not their own "school", we know
there is something lacking in the training industry.
Go
with a 63-year institution...with a universally positive reputation
- Sheffield School. No worries.
Index
Facilities:
Q:
Do you conduct your class in an actual classroom or in some conference
room?
A:
A classroom of approximately 1,000 square feet. We have a smaller classroom
of about 500 square feet used occasionally for airlines or smaller groups.
Q:
I met one dispatcher who claimed that he was taught out of some guy's
garage. True?
A:
I've heard that and worse, so it is probably true. It is absurd that
this nonsense occurs.
Index
FAR Part 65:
Q:
Are you an FAA-approved school per FAR Part 65?
A:
Yes.
Index
Field Trips:
Q: Do students get to visit an airline dispatch office and ATC center?
A: Visits are possible. Visits can be arranged on an individual basis
as well. Most classes do not tour any location, and we cannot guarantee
any visits. We had one graduate of another school
(he came to Sheffield to learn) complain that his school took too many
visits - he had to decline due to lack of classroom time and he needed
to study more - "I know what a tower looks like - big deal"
was one of his quotes. If it is productive and
can be arranged, it is possible, but we prefer not to waste any time.
Index
Financial Assistance/loans/grants:
Q: Do you offer a link to financial aid ? I need a career training loan.
A: Currently, no. Sallie Mae decided to drop many career training opportunities.
It may be resurrected in the future, but for now, you'll have to secure
a loan on your own unfortunately. We are planning to offer partial grantsin the future. You may contact us at any time for details.
Index
First
Day of (residency) Class
Q: What to bring?
A:
This question will also be answered in your Arrival Instructions which
should be emailed 1-2 weeks before the class start date. Bring: 2 photo
IDs (all names must match exactly on both IDs), pen, paper, calculator,
etc..A small flash drive to copy some of our electronic resources from
your own workstation would be good to use. Bring a laptop if you'd like
to study in your housing using a variety of electronic resources. A
laptop is NOT required, but highly recommended and may help many students
practicing some of our practice tests online at night.
Q:
Do I need to make any payments on the first day, any documents to bring
on the first day?
A: All unresolved balances are to be paid by the 1st day of class. Bring
your Enrollment Agreement if you haven’t already sent it back.
Index
First
Step - Admission Process
Q:
How do I enroll in a class?
Click
below to download the specific Admissions Procedures you require:
Index
Flight
Simulators
Q:
Do you offer tours of flight simulators?
A:
No. We are a dispatcher school. We've seen this offered in the past
with all sorts of criteria and training restrictions. Aside from misrepresenting
the functions of a dispatcher, it is, admittedly, a nice marketing tool...but
has little to do with planning a flight in conjunction with a pilot-in-command.
Index
Flight
Training
Q:
Do you offer flight training?
A:
No. We are a dispatcher school.
Index
GCAA
certification and Conversion to FAA
Q:
I am a G.C.A.A. Aircraft Dispatcher license holder. As if now i would
like to enquire regarding procedures to obtain a F.A.A flight dispatcher
license. As i have been unable to acquire any job yet, which has put
me an interest to achieve F.A.A Flight dispatch license, as i feel for
a better opportunities to be available. Please do let me know about
what course do i need to go for a refresher or complete 6week course
and also what would be the complete cost structure include housing.
Is it also sheffield assist in acquiring jobs. Please kindly do the
needful. (sent Nov 25, 2008)
A:
Get an FAA certificate - period! You can always get the other countries'
equivalent with reduced hours courses at a reduced tuition, most likely.
You may qualify to take an accelerated course from us. Contact us for
more information.
Q:
Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:19:26 -0700 (PDT)
To: morris@sheffield.com
Subject: aircraft dispatcher license conversion and ETOP
hi mr morris,
I am licensed aircraft dispatcher having license from civil aviation
pakistan. I am residing in dubai UAE and working in emirates airlines
in ground operation. I wanted to convert my license from FAA and ETOPs
certification as emirates airlines flight operations department is giving
preference to those dispatcher who are holding FAA license and specially
from your school. please guide me, how can I convert my license and
what will be the minimum cost (tuition + boaring and lodging fees) and
how many days classroom training I require?
best regards, MS.Z.
A:
See answer above. There really is no conversion, only receiving additional
certificates.
Index
GI
Bill:
Q:
Are you approved for (U.S.) Veterans' Training?
A:
Yes. All durations of our AD certification courses are currently approved.
Index
Graduation:
Q: After graduating from your school, will I know everything about dispatching?
A: No. We DO guarantee that you will be exposed to a greater quantity
and quality of material than anywhere else. The feedback from our graduates,
the hiring airlines, working dispatchers in the field, supervisors,
etc. has been consistently positive. As you browse through our site,
take note of the correspondence received by Sheffield over the years.
Index
Graduate References:
Q:
Can you provide graduate references?
A:
Yes. Contact us for details, but remember - any school can give you
some "yes men" contacts. I'd always go further and speak to
industry people to confirm what a school claims, including us.
Index
Guaranteed
Certificates/Licenses:
Q:
If a school claims the above (everything guaranteed), should I be alarmed
or wary?
A:
Just run as fast as possible in the opposite direction and don't look
back. Buying a certificate from this type of "operator" will
do you no good. Airlines tend to test your knowledge prior to hiring
and even if you slip through, and get hired, you need to perform adequately
throughout your probation period of 3-6 months - [Note that probation
information is never mentioned on these schools' web sites.]
Fun
note: Years ago one school touted that 9 of their recent graduates
of one class were hired by a local airline. Great news, but they neglected
the followup story - that within 6 months 7 of them lost their jobs,
some after unsuccessful remedial training. The airline contacted Sheffield
asking if they could interview and hire our graduates....yes, of course!
Guarantees
are worthless, and getting hired is worthless, if you're going to be
fired.
Index
Hotels
Q:
Do some students use hotels instead of the Sheffield-provided housing?
A:
A minority of students do. Information for all is here.
Q:
I am staying at the Residence Inn - Plantation. Is that a relatively
short walk to school?
A: .7 miles (7/10 mile)
Index
Housing
Q: Is housing included in the course costs?
A: No. Housing is an additional charge.
Q: What are your recommendations for housing (not so far and not so
expensive)?
A: Sheffield-provided housing (private houses), which are very close to the school, are well-kept, have Internet access, and provide a good learning environment (group study options, etc..). More expensive options are Staybridge Suites,
Residence Inn, or other local hotels. For details located on the web
site: click “student
housing.”
Q:
What do I need to bring with me if I'm in the housing you provide? Pillows,
pots/pans, bedding, alarm clock?
A: Unless you have a special health condition that requires you to bring
something specific, you don't need any of the basic items including
those mentioned above.
Q:
Is wireless Internet available in the Sheffield-provided student housing?
A: Yes.
Q:
Can I bring my family/friends to stay in the Sheffield student housing?
A: No. Housing is for Sheffield students only.
Q:
Are bathrooms shared?
A: Yes. Each house has a master bedroom usually for 2 persons sharing one bathroom, and 3 single bedrooms usually sharing another bathroom.
Index
International students:
Q: Do I need to carry the I-20 form with me during my travels to the
U.S.?
A: Yes. Make sure it is in your hand luggage/carry-on since you will
likely need to produce it to an official upon entry.
Q:
Is it possible to be FAA-certified as an Aircraft Dispatcher outside
the U.S.? Some schools claim so or imply it.
A: Click here.
Index
Jobs
Q: How does the job market look?
A: By looking at our home page "Updates" button is often at
the top, you'll notice that a high number of jobs have been consistently
posted for the past 5 years or more. Whether the hiring is at it's peak
or slows down, Sheffield School will assist you as we have always assisted
our students and graduates for the past 60 years. The slowdown of last
year has not affected our operations in ANY way. We are devoted to our
students and graduates. (Nearly
half a dozen schools have recently ceased operations - some in the middle
of class with no refund. With regard to lifetime technical support
and refresher training from their school, there is none. If and
when you decide to join us, we will be here. We are not going anywhere,
and will likely expand soon.
Q: Is it true that many graduates from certain schools lose their
jobs quickly?
A: In addition to many individual cases, there have been cases in which
an airline will hire a group of graduates from a nearby school; however,
most ended up failing their initial airline training and thus, lost
their jobs. Sheffield not only wants you to find a job, but keep
it. To do this, we provide an intense course that is unparalleled
in this industry.
Q: Has Sheffield helped graduates of other schools find employment?
A: Yes, but only after they graduated from our school. We have had numerous
graduates from other schools attend our course after suffering
through difficult times during airline training. You can find a few
examples within our testimonials
as well as in conversations with airline industry personnel. Read
Job Advancement below for a very telling testimonial!!
Index
Job Advancement:
Q:
Is this a profession that I can advance in?
A: Yes. Whether moving
into more international operational control, chief dispatcher position,
supervisor, training, or upper operational control center management/planning/logistics,
etc..there are a variety of ways to move up. Most tend to be satisfied
with gaining experience and therefore, salary, but there are always
other options. Some move into other aviation positions such as the FAA
(inspectors) or NTSB. We have many graduates who followed every position
listed and more. Some become pilots or return to flying part-time as
well as dispatch..both! The testimonial below is wonderful example of
WHY you should seek out only the absolute TOP training in the field
- education & job stability!!
21
Dec 2008, 07:38:52 AM (email)
"Wanted to give you guys an update. I've been dispatching for just
over four months now with xxx and things are going great. When
I came out to interview my boss only asked me a few dispatching questions
and referenced the fact that I went to Sheffield as to why the questions
were so limited. He said that he respects the school and knows the caliber
of student that graduates. As an interesting side note
the fellow I was in ground school with here at xxx went to a dispatch
school which will remain nameless but is located in Denver, CO. He struggled
to make it through ground school specifically referencing the fact that
they never even taught him simple things like xxx & xxxx. When I
was first looking for a dispatch school I couldn't find much in the
way of feedback about schools besides what I found on your website,
and it being your website I was suspect as to it's validity. After graduating
and now dispatching for a while I have come to realize that all the
testimonials on your site have to be absolutely true and accurate."
P.S. I am slated to become a chief dispatcher
sometime early next year.
Sincerely,
F.N. - Graduate Dispatch class June '08
Index
Job Assistance:
Q: I've noticed many schools offer no job location assistance
or claim to, but many graduates complain that their school provides
little actual assistance. Do you offer anything better?
A: Sheffield was
the first school to offer our graduates job assistance. As far as job
placement goes, we assist our students/graduates by allowing them access
to our “jobs” page with a unique User ID and password. This
allows our students and graduates to see some of the airlines who are
hiring dispatchers. Students can also print out or view an online list
of approximately 150 airlines with e-mail and web links. We also upload
résumés of graduates, if requested, onto another password-protected
page for hiring managers to view and print. The following is
an email from a graduate of another school seeking job assistance:
Forwarded Message
From: "xxxxxx xxxxx" <xxxxxyyy@hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 13:37:14 -0400
To: morris@sheffield.com
Subject: employment
Hello, my name is xxx xxxxx. I am a graduate of the dispatcher program
in (Texas). Roughly 2 months ago. I was wondering if I could accumulate
a username and password so I could get some jobs. My school isn't very
good at that sort of thing I guess. I keep on them but they seem to
be to (sic) busy and they never update their job listings page. The
last update was back in January. Please my wife and I need some work.
I was in the (military) doing flight dispatch and went to get my FAA
certification after that and now I just want to work. Thank You!
xxx xxxxx
Note - Unfortunately for this
person, only Sheffield graduates and students receive job assistance
from Sheffield.
Our graduates typically send us more positive
notes - even during trying times: Forwarded
Message:
To: morris@sheffield.com
From: "xxxx Sxxxxxxx" <xxxxxxxx@hotmail.com>
Subject: career update
Date: Sat, 07 Sep 2002 21:31:09 -0500
-----
Hey Eric,
How are things going down in Florida? Hope business is going well for
you down there. Just wanted to let you know that I am still at xxxxx
xxxxx. I ended up getting furloughed last September, but I was called
back shortly after that.....prior to other
people who had more seniority than me!! Now a year later
I am a Chief Dispatcher. Just wanted to tell you that attending Sheffield
has helped with my career as a dispatcher. The training I rec'd with
you was excellent and every day that I work with graduates of other
schools I am reminded about the reasons why I chose Sheffield. I don't
know if you are doing the teaching anymore, but I just wanted to say
that you were a great instructor and I am glad to have been there when
you taught a class.
Thanks again,
xxxx xxxxxxxx
Chief Dispatcher
xxxxx xxxxxxx
Sheffield Class Jan 2001
Index
Job
Interviews
Q:
Do airlines visit Sheffield for interviewing students?
A:
Yes, but mostly, initial interviews are by phone.
Index
Job Locations (soon)
Index
Job Placement:
Q: Am I guaranteed a job following graduation?
A: No. Airline hiring cycles are too variable and dependent upon world
events and the economy. However, by attending and graduating from Sheffield,
you are making yourself more attractive to airlines when they do hire.
Q: Reading about Sheffield school is very exciting. Would attending
your school increase my job chances?
A: Graduating with an FAA certifcate and diploma with the Sheffield
name attached to it is a plus at most airlines. They know you earned
your license. See our airline
tesitmonials. Over
300 airlines on airline list provided to students.
Q:
I found some schools guaranteeing 100% pass rates and 100% job placement
rates? Is this true?
A: Graduating with an FAA certificate after remedial training 5 times
simply means you will not sustain any dispatcher job, IF you get hired,
which you shouldn't. Knowledgeable airlines looking for dispatcher graduates
know this is marketing nonsense and is likely misrepresentation at the
least. Finding a job as a bus dispatcher 2 years after graduation (no
exaggeration - was in a "testimonial" for one diploma mill)
is no accomplishment.
We
feel that if you believe this nonsense and are that gullible, you really
should not attend Sheffield. We deal in reality and the truth. The governing
authorities should publicly condemn these statements. You can't pass
any and everyone unless they deserve it - they are to plan flights typically
with human beings carried as a majority of the payload.
Guaranteeing
jobs is cute as well. Sheffield can't do that although most, if not
all, of our graduates find work. TIME is an issue! What good is finding
a job if it took 4 years because you couldn't get through an interview
until after taking a Sheffield dispatcher course?
Can
you imagine going tomorrow to your doctor who attended a medical school
that guaranteed passing no matter how lazy or inept he or she was?
Index
Job Salary: (soon)
Index
Jumpseat Privileges: (soon)
Index
Miscellaneous
Q: What type of student
are you looking for?
A: Only the highly motivated. That does not mean experienced. Experience
can sometimes help save some study time, but not much. Our course begins
at a basic level, then exponentially increases to the most comprehensive
Aircraft Dispatcher course in the world. Our pass rate is high, our
free tutoring is offered on a daily basis to anyone who desires it,
but our course is not for the unmotivated. It is intense, but the license
that you earn at Sheffield has value. That is the consistent theme that
you hear when you ask around or interview. Q:
What is your opinion of modular (the "enter/exit at any time"
type) courses or self-paced study?
A: For our school to offer such a course based on our comprehensive
curriculum would be a sham and it would be a hard slap to this industry's
face.
Q:
What is your opinion of very short accelerated courses that simply prep
an individual to pass tests?
A: See answer above. We believe in preparing our students not only for
tests, but for real life. Airline initial training is not necessarily
an easy pass. If you graduate from a Dispatcher school, you may get
hired, but you may also get fired. No other school will tell you this
hidden fact. One school recently had a large group of their graduates
hired by a local airline - most of them are no longer employed because
they FAILED to meet the required training standards. We believe prospective
students should also consider the latter when contemplating school selection
based on proximity and price. Seek quality - it is a safer investment.
Our shortest residency course is 5 days; however, we are very selective
about who we allow into the course and it is very intense, with required
online training initially.
Q:
Do you guarantee a license?
A: No. If we would, we would never have remained in business for over
62 years. Our reputation would have eroded long ago. Licensing anybody
and everybody no matter how long it takes to understand the material
or how poorly they perform is a DISGRACE to this profession. This utter
lack of licensing standards and oversight is a major contributing factor
to the term used for uneducated graduates - clerks. Sheffield refuses
to produce clerks. We respect our students and the airline dispatcher
profession too much. Our
pass rate for motivated individuals who study hard is
virtually 100%.
Q:
If I have a question concerning the school, career, current job situation,
or a technical procedure, may I call on the CEO or the President directly?
A: At Sheffield School, yes. If we are temporarily out of the office,
we can usually e-mail an answer within 24 hours.
Index
Night classes:
Q: Do you offer night classes?
A: No. We feel that there is not enough demand for those classes.
More importantly, in March 2006, the FAA
in Washington allegedly began investigating night courses offered
by course operators which may not adequately meet FAA oversight standards.
Those classes will likely cease operation soon if the FAA inspectors
do not monitor the activities which actually occur during the weekend
hours. All certificates issued to students during questionable circumstances
may be revoked or suspended pending further investigation.
[Why gamble with not only your money but your potential career?]
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Operational Control Centers: (soon)
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Payment
Q: Do you have any further information regarding the deposit or payment
schedule for the Sheffield class?
A: In addition to the nonrefundable registration fee of $500.00, we
require an $1,000.00 deposit to reserve a seat in the 5-week class.
Q: Is there a cancellation penalty if I cancel within 30 days of the
class start date?
A: See our online catalog for all refund
policies for each course.
Q: How long must I wait to receive a refund from your school?
A: We have a 30-day policy, but we usually refund money ASAP. Regarding
refunds, you don't need to worry. We've been in continuous business
for over 64 years, and have no plans to go out of business.
Index
Practical Examinations:
Q:
What are the Flight Plan and Practical Exams like? What do they typically
cover?
A: The Practical will simply cover what you learned in class at Sheffield.
Students typically excel during the practical examinations since they
were thoroughly taught, reviewed, and tested for the course duration.
Index
Prerequisites: (soon)
-See
individual Course pages for specific course prerequisites.
Index
Prices:
Prices for each course are located here. Feel to to also run
a Cost
comparison. [Note: some schools do not even reveal their fees, they'd rather ask you to "request a quote" = bad news.]
Although Sheffield School
has the longest history and most experience of any dispatcher school in the world, we provide a greater education, more physical and electronic materials that you can actually keep, and more services before AND after graduation, but we also typically match or beat others' prices - typically, coupons are placed on our home page, 5-week course page, or catalog request pages, or you can always email us at morris@sheffield.com and ask!
Index
Prior Aviation Experience/Training
Q: How will my previous aviation experience help with respect to the
5-week course?
A: If it is kept in check, it will benefit you to some degree. However,
when an individual enters our course thinking they know everything,
they usually fall below their expectations. Our course is designed to
be the most comprehensive full-time dispatcher course in the world.
You are invited into our class with two goals in mind: first, to learn
how to become a conscientious flight dispatcher; and second, to earn
a license to enable you to apply what you've learned. Sheffield School
has never been a "freebie" or "sell-out" course. We sincerely want our
graduates to not only succeed in their airline initial training courses,
but to become innovative thinkers and leaders.
Q: Do I need prior aviation experience?
A: No. It could help, but since it is not a formal FAA prerequisite,
we'll start from the ground up. We will assume that you have no prior
background. There are videos and other multimedia tools in our classroom
to facilitate your learning. We also remain after class for tutoring
sessions for anyone who requests it. Our goal is to get you through
this course without compromise. It is not to "weed out" individuals.
Our pass rate for a typical class will range from 80-100%.
Index
Questions You Should Ask: (soon)
Index
Recurrent Training (soon)
Index
Refresher Training (soon)
Index
Refund Policy
Q:
Do you have published refund policy?
A:
Yes. Sheffield has a reasonable refund policy prior to the class start
date AND a pro rata refund policy after the class start date - (all
found within our Catalog.) Some others will
NOT refund any of your money within 30 days BEFORE the class start
date including ZERO refunds if you leave the class after it starts for
any reason.
Be
careful - one course operator we found offers NO REFUND
WITHIN 30 DAYS OF THE CLASS START DATE - no refund at all before the
class even BEGINS! Sheffield would never use such a horrendous
and unfair refund policy. Another school throws the student out of the class without a refund after 2 absences.
Index
Relocation (for
employment) (soon)
Index
Restaurants (soon)
Index
Salary (soon)
Index
Sallie Mae (student loans)
April
15, 2009 NOTE: Sallie Mae is restructuring their Career Training Loan
program and will no longer accept new loan applications after May 7,
2009.
Q:
What is your school code and who is your contact person at Sheffield
School?
A: Our school code for Sallie Mae is 602723 and contact information
is Katja Morris, Director of Admissions.
Q:
What is Sallie Mae's phone number?
A: 954-564-1383. If incorrect or changed, check their web site.
Q:
What is the loan amount and how much can be added for extra expenses?
A: Your total loan amount is the total of the tuition cost and as much
as
60% on top of that. For example, if your 6-week course tuition and application
amount is $4,700.00, then you can borrow $2,820.00 additional for living
expenses, which will bring your total loan amount to $7,520.00.
Q: What should I use on the application as the "disbursement date"
and how are the monies actually disbursed - to the school or to me?
A: Please be sure to have the disbursement date to the school approximately
10 days prior to class start date to ensure that you are paid by the
first day of class. The tuition amount will come to the school, but
the living expenses will go directly to you. (check will be mailed to
you from SM.)
Q: What are the chances of my loan application being denied?
A: No loan will be denied unless you are in backruptcy or have defaulted
on a previous student loan.
Q: How can I expedite the approval process and possibly reduce the interest
rate?
A: It is best to apply already with a co-borrower (which can be dropped
after 24 months). This will ensure a lower interest rate and faster
approval.
Q: When are my loan payments due?
A: Payments can be deferred until you have completed the school or you
may pay interest only on your loan payment until you have secured employment.
(see Sallie Mae
web link for more information.) A 30-year loan will lower your monthly
payments; you can pay off the loan any time before then with no penalty.
Q: Can I apply for a loan online? Where are the instructions?
A: Yes. Instructions.
Q: May international students apply to sallie Mae for loans?
A: Unfortunately, no. For domestic (U.S.) students only.
School Selection (soon)
Index
School Tests (soon)
Index
SEVIS
Q:
Is Sheffield SEVIS-approved?
A:
Yes. International students have all procedures within their "Admissions
Procedures" for their particular duration class.
Index
Simulators
Q:
Do you have an airplane simulator students can use?
A:
No. There are some flight schools who conduct a dispatcher-type course
on the side who like to use simulators as a marketing lure, but when
you ask around, you may find that the time is limited or tentative based
on their pilot training. They try to distract you from what they LACK,
which are dispatcher tools. Also, watch what you're being sold - there's
one school out there that pumps up simulators, but also will NOT
refund any of your money within 30 days BEFORE the class start date
including ZERO refunds if you leave the class after it starts for any
reason - BAD DEAL. Sheffield
offers DISPATCH simulation in the form of 3 different flight planning
engines and Aircraft Situation Display -
tools USED by dispatchers. We offer a fair and reasonable
refund policy prior to the class AND a pro rata refund policy after
your class start date - (all found within our Catalog.)
Index
Sponsorship (soon)
Index
Study Materials
Q: What are the study materials that are available prior to the start
of class and how much do they cost?
A: For students who have applied to Sheffield, there are free
FAA ADX examination handouts/quizzes/instructional modules found from
a link on our main web page (http://www.sheffield.com/FAA_test_prep.html).
Aside from self-studying and familiarizing yourself with a few topics,
you can also visit: http://www.sheffield.com/dispatcherresources.html
and look for the "Aviation Weather" and "Aviation Weather
Services Manual" These books can be printed or viewed for free,
and include much of the information that we discuss in the first 2 weeks
of class.
Index
Taxes
Q: Are there any taxes I have to pay in addition? I was surprised by one school (with a non-FAA approved location in Germany) because when I asked this company for prices they listed them without the taxes of 19%. I just want to consider and calculate all costs so I know how much of a loan to ask the bank for. Are there any other costs besides USD 5,000 (how do I use the discount certificate)?
A: No taxes charged by Sheffield School. Our tuition cost includes everything stated as advertised in our course pages and descriptions. Additionally, our full tuition is less than your quote - even more with an applied coupon. [contact us if coupon expired - we may have others!]
Testimonials
Q: I've seen testimonials on other school's sites, but without a date.
Are they hiding something?
A: Likely, the truth. Some schools have ZERO testimonials. Some claim
"thousands. but can't produce them, and some post a few that have
been online and dated when the first Bush was President. Interesting
how the dates evaporated during the current era. Most, if not all of
our testimonials are dated either to the day or at least the year, they're
plentiful, and consistently very positive. For a large variety of testimonial
links and categories, go to the “Testimonials”
index page.
Index
Testing:
Q: When is the 1st
test in the 5-week class and what topics are covered?
A: Friday of the first week on Weather Theory.
Q:
What are the Flight Plan and Practical Exams like? What do they typically
cover?
A: The Practical will simply cover what you learned in class at Sheffield.
Students typically excel during the practical examinations since they
were thoroughly taught, reviewed, and tested for the course duration.
Index
Training/Campus
Locations:
Q:
Where are your training locations?
A:
We train primarily in Ft. Lauderdale, FL - USA, but can be authorized
to train virtually anywhere depending on what type of class is desired.
Final FAA certification must always conclude within the U.S.A..
Index
Transportation
Security Information:
http://www.tsa.gov/
Index
Travel plans:
Q: If I am enrolled in a class, when should I purchase flight tickets
or make specific travel arrangements?
A: When making travel plans, plan your arrival on the Saturday or Sunday
prior to the class start date. You will be able to enter the Sheffield-provided
housing on those days, but probably not earlier due to the time needed
to clean and arrange everything for the upcoming class. Plan your departure
from Sheffield at least 3-5 days following the last day of the class.
There is a limit of the number of practical examinations given each
day - not everyone can complete the class, have their exam within 24
hours, then leave. If you're enrolled in the extra workshops (AIFP,
ETOPS, or EWINS), you should plan to depart by the day following your
last class day.
Index
Truth vs. Fiction (Myths, lies, etc..)
Q: I read on one web site for a school that they have over 20 years
of experience preparing students for exams, yet they don't state how
long their school has actually been in business. Why?
A: They are adding up every individual's personal experience in aviation
no matter what it was, and to top it off, they are likely adding in
part-time employees' experience. Adding the word "cumulative"
would be more honest. All schools have a difficult battle against Sheffield's
62-year history.
Q: I read on one web site for a school that they have trained "thousands"
of students, but don't state when their school was established.
A: There have been and still are schools that made these claims, but
they include EVERY student that ever took a long or short (as short
as 2-3 days) course. On top of that, "thousands" may represent
any number over 999. They'll pull anything possible to lure you in.
Want proof of thousands? Tell them to show you some class pictures and
guarantee and publish an assortment of testimonials and references.
I'm sure you'll hear some sort of excuse following the initial uncomfortable
3-5 seconds of silence on the other end of the phone.
Q:
What should I assume if a school changes it's name?
A:
Could mean nothing, but it may be the same tactic used by airlines following
bad business, tragic accidents, etc..They are diverting attention from
the truth or the past. Basically, you can change your shirt, but you
still stink.
Q:
I spoke to one school who claims to be about 70 years old. Is this a
lie?
A:
Huge lie. There is one company out there that periodically claims about
6.5 decades more experience than actual. [we have printed all electronic
documentation.] There's a difference between 70 years of supplying aviation
products and 7 years attempted part-time dispatcher certification, with
multiple periodic class cancellations. Sheffield has conducted Aircraft
Dispatcher Training since 1948. (schools become desperate when seeing
the number on the logo below...)
Index
Tuition:
Q:
What is the course tuition?
A:
Tuition for each course are located here. Feel to to also run
a Cost
comparison. [Note: some schools do not even reveal their fees, they'd rather ask you to "request a quote" = bad news.]
Although Sheffield School
has the longest history and most experience of any dispatcher school in the world, we provide a greater education, more physical and electronic materials that you can actually keep, and more services before AND after graduation, but we also typically match or beat others' prices - typically, coupons are placed on our home page, 5-week course page, or catalog request pages, or you can always email us at morris@sheffield.com and ask!
Index
Tutoring:
Q: If I feel like I'm behind on the concepts/info during Dispatch training,
is it easy to arrange for some extra tutoring?
A: Very simple. We offer tutoring after class every day at no extra
charge. We encourage students to seek assistance,
if required.
Index
Visa
Q:
What type of visa is normally required for international students.
A:
M-1 student. You need an I-20 form to bring to a U.S. Embassy in your
country. We send the I-20 form to you once the application fee, tuition
deposit, and I-20 processing fees are paid.
Q:
How much are those fees for the 5-week course?
A:
Application = $500. Tuition deposit = $1,000. I-20 fee = $200.
Q:
What are the general visa instructions, including specific requirements
for Canada, and other countries?
A:
Click below for detailed pdf files.
