 |
YES! GroundSchool features ACTUAL QUESTIONS (current for
2012
and continuously updated) that you will see when you go to take your FAA written exam.
Important news for test-takers Click here for our statement, broadly in agreement with recent press releases by AOPA and NAFI, regarding recent changes to FAA knowledge tests (especially FOI, ATP, and FE).
Learn more about how our GroundSchool programs and apps feature superior learning content that leads to better study, testing, and learning outcomes.
|
We
work continuously to ensure that the content is as up to date as
possible. Have questions about this software? Please Contact us via our
helpdesk.
|
|
With
a minimum of time and cost, YOU
can ACE your FAA Fundamentals of Instruction knowledge (written)
test using our GroundSchool Software.
(Free Trial! Download
Below.)
The FAA Fundamentals of Instruction knowledge test must be taken by most Flight and Ground Instructor applicants. However, it is only peripherally aviation related. The real focus of this test is the theory and practice of teaching and learning. By making you think about the teaching and learning process, the FAA undoubtedly hopes that you will become a better instructor yourself.

Our GroundSchool software will help you prepare for the FAA Fundamentals of Instruction test in a highly effective way. It is 100% what you need to prepare for your FoI written test and features actual FAA questions.
We offer two ways to purchase the FoI written test:
-
Most People Should Get the Combined Flight Instructor and FoI Prep from here. The FoI prep can be purchased as part of GroundSchool Flight and Ground Instructor. For one price, you get both the Fundamentals of Instruction test prep plus a complete prep for your actual flight and ground instructor written test. This is the best solution for most potential flight and ground instructors. Please visit the GroundSchool - Flight and Ground Instructor page if you think this might apply to you.
- A few others might truly need just the FoI prep. The FoI prep can also be purchased individually, separate from the complete Flight and Ground Instructor test bank as well. This is for people who need to prepare only for the Fundamentals of Instruction written test but not for any other test in the FAA Flight/Ground Instructor test bank. This may include:
- Instrument Flight Instructor Candidate? Somebody who intends to get an INSTRUMENT flight/ground instructor certificate as their INITIAL and ONLY (ever!) flight/ground instructor certificate. The CFI-Instrument (Airplane and Helicopter) test can be studied for using our GroundSchool - Instrument Rating software as the CFI-I questions are part of the FAA IFR, NOT Flight Instructor banks. If you plan on getting your CFI-I as your initial flight instructor certificate, you will likely need to take the FoI written. However, if your instrument will be your first flight/ground instructor certificate but you plan at some point to get your regular "VFR" instructor certificate (CFI/BGI/AGI), then you should look into the combined Flight Instructor / FoI package as you will at some point need to take a "VFR" flight/ground instructor written test as well. Remember, upgrades are always free, so if you buy the software now it will be waiting for you when you're ready to study.
- Corporate FoI Taker? As it turns out the FoI is a pretty good test and studying for it is generally a worthwhile experience for many, even outside the flight instruction world. Some companies and departments have made it mandatory for a wide variety of people. If you are such a person, maybe our FoI only prep is for you.
| Exempt from the FoI? |
| A small percentage of people, such as those with certain formal degrees in education, are in theory exempted from taking the Fundamentals of Instruction written test. In our experience, however, most people who are in theory exempted end up taking it anyway. Why? First of all, it's often easier to just prepare for and pass the FoI written test than to jump through the paperwork hoops that may be associated with proving your exempt status. More than that, however, is that the FoI is actually quite a good test and a good review of basic teaching/learning theory. And, if you still don't buy that, consider this: even if you are theoretically exempt from the written test, you will not be exempt from knowing FAA Fundamentals of Instruction material during your flight instructor checkride. Remember: initial CFI checkrides are almost always given by an FAA Pilot Examiner. The oral portion of your initial CFI checkride will in all likelihood be quite intense and you will have to know the FoI stuff quite well - you will not be able to bluff your way through it based on your general background in education - the FAA Pilot Examiner will want to hear evidence that you know the FAA FoI take on things. The CFI checkride is among the most often failed and lack of preparedness for the FoI portion of the oral exam undoubtedly makes up a substantial portion of those failures. Your best chance of success is to prepare for and take the Fundamentals of Instruction written test - even if you are theoretically exempt. |
|
GroundSchool Features:
- Unlike
books and other materials, our software updates itself
using the built-in LiveUpdate feature. You always have
the latest and greatest available study material from
us at no extra charge.
- This
software costs about the same as what a book does, but
is significantly more time efficient. Sure, DVD/Video
sets may look pretty, but many find them frustrating,
timewise. Our software works on YOUR pace at significantly
lesser cost.
- Yes,
you study here using up-to-date, ACTUAL
FAA QUESTIONS. Answers and Explanations written
by highly experienced flight instructors and professional
pilots. All required charts and figures included.
 |
Software Download
The
best way to get a feel for the software is to download it from below
it and try it out! The demo is free (and if you
decide to purchase it, the price is very reasonable.)
|
| Title |
Download |
| GroundSchool
- Flight Instructor
Flight
Instructor Airplane/Helicopter/Gyroplane and Fundamentals
of Instruction. |
|
|
GroundSchool - Fundamentals of Instruction Only Version
This smaller download includes only FoI. For the most part, you're better off downloading the Flight/Ground Instructor version above, since it includes not only the FoI, but the other Flight Instructor tests as well. However, we provide the FoI-only version here as an option. |
|
[Note:
Instrument
Flight/Ground Instructor test prep?.][click
here for other FAA Pilot & Mechanic Tests]
Ready
to Register? 
Click here to order an unlock code via
electronic delivery
Our
small company greatly appreciates all registrations. |
|
| Meet some of our Editorial Team |
|
 |
"T"
Cirincione
"T"
Cirincione is a captain for a Fortune 50 company flying Citation
X and Learjet 60s. He has 23+ years of aviation experience
and holds the following ratings: ATP, Gold Seal CFI, CFII, MEI,
FE Turbojet, and A&P. He has a Master of Science in Aeronautical
Science, a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management, and an Associate
of Science in Aircraft Maintenance Technology. His has taught A&P
students for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and Learjet 60
initial and recurrent classes for FlightSafety International. Prior
to that, T was a Flight Examiner in the US Air Force, and an instructor
at the USAF Fighter Weapons School flying the mighty F-4 Phantom.
He has over 4000 hours in fighters and corporate aircraft. When
not immersed in aviation, T enjoys fly-fishing, bow hunting, and
4-wheelin his Jeep.
|
|
|
 |
Greg
Reverdiau
Greg
is an FAA certified Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII) and Commercial
Single and Multi Engine, Instrument pilot. He is currently located
in Melbourne, FL but originally grew up in Dijon, France. He gradued
from Florida Tech with a Bachelor degree in Aeronautical Science
and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Aviation Human Factors.
He's a Flight Operations Administration Supervisor and also loves
to take pictures and develop websites.
|
|
|
 |
Danny
Aslinger
Danny
grew up in Ketchikan, Alaska where, after watching thousands of
seaplanes take-off and land, grew interested in aviation. With the
encouragement of his parents, sisters, and most recently his wife
Jessica, Danny began pursuing his dream of flying in 1998 while
attending college at the University of Idaho. He is a commercially
rated pilot and also a certified flight instructor with instrument
instruction privileges. In addition to his flight experience, Danny
has an extensive teaching background from guiding and teaching sea
kayaking in Alaska and Idaho, a job which he began when he was 15
years old.
|
|
|
|
 |
Denis
Khripkov
Denis
is a corporate captain with significant experience Cessna, Dassault Falcon, and now,
elite Gulfstream IV/V aircraft.
Previously, Denis has flown a Yak 42 regional
jet for Aeroflot. Denis also has several thousands of hours of small
plane experience as a CFI/I and aerial inspection pilot. When not
flying, Denis spends his time overwatering his garden and playing
with his young children.
|
|
|
 |
Bill
Hughes
Bill
is now one of the most prominent and experienced Hot Air Balloon
pilots in the USA. However, his aviation experience is far deeper:
Bill is a former US Navy pilot who has over 9,000 hours of flight
experience in everything from jets to helicopters. He has served
as an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner and Safety Counselor. He was
a crewmember for Malcolm Forbes’ balloon flight across America
in 1973. Each year he acts as Balloonmeister* for several balloon
events and last year celebrated his 22nd year as Balloonmeister
for the Adirondack Balloon Festival in Glens Falls, NY.
|
|
|
[LiveUpdate troubles? click here]
GroundSchool
software is ....
1.
Time Efficient.
GroundSchool is designed to help you learn the material and score highly on your
test in the most efficient manner possible. Our software represents years of listening to and understanding the needs of pilots
and mechanics. The program is designed with the singular goal of helping you learn
the material so you can pass your FAA written test with a minimum of time and
effort. Sure, there are some study methods that are cheaper (and many far more
expensive!).. but only if your time is worth nothing.. Our software is fast, efficient,
and proven.
Here are a few screenshots from the software:
2.
Easily Updatable.
With our FAA Written Test Prep software, you don't have to worry about having
an out of date version. Our authors work to update the data as FAA question
pools change. Groundschool has a built-in self-update feature that connects
to our servers and makes sure that you have the latest and greatest versions
of the software and data soon after they becomes available.
Additionally, the self-update can be used to install new test
data (such as Instrument Rating on top of Private Pilot) so you can have it
when and where you need it.
3. Inexpensive.
"I
wanted to express my gratitude for the FAA Ground School Test Prep
Software. The features are outstanding with regard to knowledge
reinforcement, cross referencing, concentrating on weak points,
and ease of use. Even if you have one of the other home study courses
you still need this program."
- DM - GroundSchool User.
|
|
|
|
To order for a platform other than MS Windows™, select one of these:
To order for Microsoft Windows™:
Click a 'Buy Now' button below to get it via e-mail delivery of an activation keycode. For most users, this is the most popular, fastest, and best choice.
alternately, visit our CD/DVD shop
|
|
| |
Unlimited use of the program to help you prepare for for tests in
one of the above test banks. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Sport Pilot Bundle |
|
| |
For those looking to really make the most of the world of light sport piloting!
Includes the following two test banks:
| |
 |
Sport Pilot |
 |
Sport Pilot Instructor and Examiner |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Takeoff Bundle |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Takeoff Bundle + Sport Pilot Bundle |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
FlightLevel
Bundle |
|
| |
For
already experienced, but soon to be professional pilots!
Includes the following two test banks:
| |
 |
Flight
Engineer (Reciprocating, Turbojet, and Turboprop) |
 |
Airline
Transport Pilot (Parts 121 and 135, both add-on
and initial), plus Aircraft Dispatcher |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Pro Pilot Bundle |
|
| |
For the Professional Pilot of the future! One of our best Value
FAA written test prep packages. This is for those really focused on a career in aviation. This package includes
both the Takeoff and FlightLevel Bundles combined. |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Pro Pilot Bundle + Sport Pilot Bundle |
|
| |
For the Professional Pilot of the future who also wants to operate in the dynamic Sport Pilot world! Our Best Value
FAA written test prep package. This is for those really focused on a career in aviation but who also love it enough and want the 'future proofing' security of also getting a
Sport Pilot license(s). This package everything from the Takeoff, Sport Pilot, and FlightLevel Bundles combined. |
|
|
 |
+ |
 |
|
 |
|
GroundSchool + Safelog Combo |
|
| |
Purchase
GroundSchool (one test bank) together with Safelog,
our electronic Pilot Logbook at a discounted combo price. A great deal! |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Aviation Mechanic A&P Bundle |
|
| |
Complete preparation for the three written / knowledge tests (General, Airframe, and Powerplant) that you'll need to take and pass to get
get an FAA A&P certificate. Includes access to all three A&P test banks. Please note: choosing this is the same as choosing a "pick 3"
bundle above and then selecting the mechanic tests from there.
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Military Competence (only) |
|
| |
This is for purchasing the Military Competence test banks (Military Competence Airplane and Helicopter - MCA and MCH and/or Military Competence Instructor (MCI)) only. Purchase this option if you are a military pilot wishing to obtain your FAA civilian commercial pilot and/or flight instructor certificate(s) on the basis of your military experience. See the Military Competence page for full details. |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Fundamentals of Instruction (only) |
|
| |
This is for purchasing the prep for the Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) test only. This is for people who are sure that they need ONLY the FOI prep. Most flight and ground instructor candidates should NOT get this, but rather the complete CFI test bank that includes all the flight/ground instructor tests plus the FOI. |
|
|
|
4. Field-Tested.
"I
took the test after working with your software and the K***
Schools CFI/FOI course. Your course was the most economical
to use for the practice tests versus K*** Schools. I studied
at a slow pace for 3 months then accelerated the practice and
review one month prior to the written. Your course was great
for getting familiar with the computerized testing scheme that
CATS employs. I scored 99% on my FI/A and 100% on my FOI written
tests. I believe I spent about and hour and a half on the FI/A
test and only 35 minutes on the FOI. I plan on using your software
for any future ratings or certificates. Thank you." - FM
(CFI/FOI)
"100%!"
- PM (Comm/CFI)
"Passed
... Fundamentals of Instruction ... only one question wrong
... only 2.5 hours of study" - AA (CFI/FOI)
"Test
score was 97%. Software was highly helpful." - JW (CFI)
"Only
missed one on the FOI (my fault!) The software was a big help!"
- DH (CFI/FOI)
"I
will recommend your software to my students .." - DF (PVT/IFR/Comm/CFI)
"The
new explanations are a great help... I ended up getting a 100%."
- LR (IFR/Comm/CFI)
"I'm using the Groundschool FOI-Only version of your software, and this is just a great product. Flexible, clear, easy-to-use, and most of all effective." - DW
"The software did an excellent job from start to finish. It walked me through the material in a logical manner, became progressively more challenging, and allowed me to master the EXACT FAA questions. In addition, simulating the Laser Grade testing format was perfect training for the real thing! FOI score = 100% Thanks guys!" - SH, GroundSchool User
The
feedback keeps rolling in. Our users routinely score very highly
on their knowledge tests. We invite you to be next. It's hard
to say for sure, but we're confident within reasonable doubt
that we have helped "hundreds get hundreds" with our
software by this point.
5. Powerful and
Versatile.
Features include*:
- Explanations
written by professional pilots and flight instructors
- Most tests
(Airplane, Helicopter, Balloon, etc.) are covered
- Plenty of study
and testing options allowing you to personalize the software for your own
most efficient study.
- You can get
an instructor signoff to take the actual written test through use of this
software and our Online
Endorsement Service.
- The ability
to explicitly flag questions which you find to be difficult
- Lookup individual
or groups of questions using a wide range of search criteria
- Integrated
Library of Aviation offering everything from PTS documents to FAA training
publications to aircraft checklists and much, much more
- LaserGrade,
CATS, and AvTest 2000 Emulation modes allow you to practice on
the software as you will see it at the actual testing center.
- Ability to
load and save training / testing sessions
- Printouts galore!
Print out score reports to show your instructor, a "book" of questions for
yourself to study on the road or elsewhere.
- Something that
is not really quantifiable or visible: fast, efficient study. The software
has been designed to be quick so your time is spent preparing and learning,
not flipping pages or clicking about needlessly.
* This list refers to features found in the MS-Windows™ PC versions of GroundSchool.
2/5/2012
Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI)
2/28/2014
|
Thanks
for checking out the software! Good luck on your test, and blue
skies!

The
FAATest.com Team
| |
| Is
your flight school like this? The Wright Brothers testing
the balancing skills of potential flight students. Actually,
while the photo is genuine, the Wrights were engaging in
some lighthearted fun (1904). |
|
|
 |
 |
"I believe that your product is
ABSOLUTELY EXCELLENT. I has been a joy to work
with. All the more so due to your very prompt
response to my questions.
I was about to order the
[competitor's product] when I noticed
your product. Because it was downloadable, I
could start practicing right away. And, the
price was right. I’m a 64 year old 1000 hour
private pilot (1963) with instrument rating
(1966) who suddenly decided to get my Commercial
and CFII as a retirement vocation. I don’t learn
as fast as I did 40 years ago. GroundSchool has
been a great learning and practicing tool." -
JG |
 |
"I will tell you that I think your
software is a wonderful product and I have
personally recommended it to many students at
[FBO] ground school classes... in fact as a
result of using your program, my wife blew by
the other students in her class! This has been a
tremendous confidence builder for her as she was
somewhat intimidated by the other students (all
male) Kind of fun to watch their faces when she
completes a multiple chapter review in 1/4 of
the time they took. Now, they make comments
during the correction like..." well I had answer
A but [wife's name] has answer B and I'm sure
she has the right answer "
We're having a
great time with your software even I use it to
keep myself fresh... Thanks a bunch, best 30
bucks I ever spent!" -
GW |
|
|
|
|
|
|


|
This software
undergoes
Continuous Refinement.
We continually work to
upgrade both the content and functionality of
this software.
Upgrades are always
available free of charge and with minimum hassle
either by redownloading the software or by using
the built-in LiveUpdate feature.
As always, if you like our
software, please do tell your fellow pilots. As
a small company, we greatly appreciate your support. |
|
CATS™ and LaserGrade™ Testing Center Emulation
Modes


No need to worry about what the
experience at the test center will be like.
GroundSchool can be set to emulate both the CATS
and LaserGrade test center software so that when
you go to take your actual test, there will be
no surprises
This is one of many timesaving,
score-boosting, and stress-relieving features
unique to
GroundSchool. |
 |
Need
Help? Have a question?
Visit our Helpdesk. |
 |
 |
| Some
Advice about the Instructor Written tests I wish
somebody would have given me:
The
Advanced and Basic Ground Instructor tests use (essentially)
the same questions as the FIA Flight Instructor
Airplane test.
Therefore,
if you're studying for the FIA (or Flight Instructor
Instrument Airplane), it's not a bad idea to take
the AGI or BGI (or IGI) test immediately (as in
5 minutes) after taking your FIA (or IFI) tests.
Yes,
this will cost you an additional testing center
fee, but you'll get the ground instructor ratings
with zero extra study time.
While
the ground instructor ratings may be
somewhat
needless for most
flight instructors in terms of instructing, they
do look good on an aviation CV plus they are required
if you ever get the opportunity to upgrade your
flight instructor certificate to Gold Seal status.
|
|
|