I agree, HSBC your best choice. Up to 18000 I think, even mentions professional pilot in the studies loan leaflet. BTW if the branch you speak to does not know/like, just try another as my HSBC bank manager said they may not understand the amounts involved! Anothe option is of course the career development loan if they still do it. Mine is with Barclays. Write back if you have any probs and I will give you my HSBC mans name. Good Luck