Student Branches

What are the requirements for starting a Student Branch:

• The school must be accredited by ABET, Inc. (formerly the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) or by the appropriate regional accrediting body.
• The Dean of the Engineering School, or an equivalent academic official, must write a letter of endorsement giving the school's official recognition of the group.
• At least one school faculty member, who is an AIAA Professional Member, must serve as Faculty Advisor to the student branch.
• At least fifteen (15) students must have enrolled as student members of AIAA.
• The prospective branch must submit proof of accreditation of the school's engineering programs.
• The prospective branch must submit a set of bylaws. The student branch bylaws template can be found here.
• The prospective branch must submit a succession plan indicating how the branch will continue to grow and maintain their status with AIAA. 
• The AIAA Student Branch Committee and Council of Directors must review and vote on your application for a charter. If the application is approved, your educational institution will be granted a charter.

When is the application period for chartering a student branch?

The application period occurs two times per year (Spring and Fall).

How long is the application and review process?

The application to charter a student branch is several pages long. Once the application is completed and submitted, the AIAA Student Branch Committee reviews each application and will approve or deny an application, and receive final approval from other volunteer groups at AIAA. It is a maximum of 4 months from the time the application period is open to when applicants are notified on the status of their charter application.