Speedrestriction is exactly right. Some years ago I applied for the flybe sponsorship and was unsuccessful with them. However I persevered and decided to go down the self sponsored route and undertook an integrated course. It has taken me over a year now since finishing to secure an airline job but thankfully I will be starting on the Q400 soon. In some ways you are in a better position than those that are sponsored as you are not on a reduced salary! My point is that the competition for their sponsorship is extremely high and massively over subscribed so don't be too disheartened if you are not sucessfull! There are always other avenues to explore and at the moment the industry does seem to be buoyant however it is very cyclical. Self funding will always be a risky investment but totally worth it if you achieve your goals. Best of luck to everybody!