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Fundamentals of Instruction Test Preparation  Fundamentals of Instruction Test Preparation FAA Written Test Preparation

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.

Click here to Begin DownloadDownload
80.81 mb
Feb 5 2012

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.

Click here to Begin DownloadDownload
15.15 mb
Feb 5 2012

[Note: Instrument Flight/Ground Instructor test prep?.][click here for other FAA Pilot & Mechanic Tests]

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FAA Learning Center Codes

Meet some of our Editorial Team 

"T" Cirincione
"T" Cirincione is a captain for a Fortune 50 company flying Citation X and Learjet 60’s. 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:

GroundSchool FOI Main Menu

GroundSchool FOI Test Selection Screen

GroundSchool FOI Chapter Selection

GroundSchool FOI Test and Study Options

GroundSchool FOI Test Screen Screenshot

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.

 

A "test bank" contains one or more tests. For example, the "Private and Recreational Pilot" test bank will contain the Private Pilot Airplane, Private Pilot Helicopter, and other tests. You'll be able to see the exact tests in each of the test banks in the screens to follow. Here are the available GroundSchool test banks:

Private and Recreational Pilot Airline Transport Pilot Aviation Mechanic (General)
Instrument Rating (IFR) Flight Engineer Aviation Mechanic (Airframe)
Commercial Pilot Sport Pilot (General) Aviation Mechanic (Powerplant)
Flight and Ground Instructor Sport Pilot (Instructor & Examiner) Parachute Rigger
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
Any Individual Test Bank
  Unlimited use of the program to help you prepare for for tests in one of the above test banks.  
$39.99 / $34.99

[buy now]
'Pick 3' Bundle
 

Unlock any three pilot or mechanic test banks. You can choose ANY combination of 3 of the test banks shown above, including:
   IFR/Commercial/CFI
Mechanic General/Airframe/Powerplant
CFI/FE/ATP
etc.

$89.99

[buy now]
Sport Pilot
Sport Pilot Instructor and Examiner
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

$69.99

[buy now]
Private Pilot and Recreational Pilot
Instrument Rating (IFR)
Commercial Pilot
Flight and Ground Instructor
Takeoff Bundle
 

For the serious and committed pilot! Includes all of the following test banks:
   Private and Recreational Pilot
Instrument Rating (including Instrument Flight Instructor - CFII)
Commercial Pilot
Flight Instructor (including Ground Instructor and Fundamentals of Instruction)

$104.99

[buy now]
Private Pilot and Recreational Pilot
Instrument Rating (IFR)
Commercial Pilot
Flight and Ground Instructor
Sport Pilot
Sport Pilot Instructor and Examiner
Takeoff Bundle + Sport Pilot Bundle
 

For the serious and committed pilot who may also want to operate in the Light Sport Pilot realm. Includes all of the following test banks:
   Private and Recreational Pilot
Instrument Rating (including Instrument Flight Instructor - CFII)
Commercial Pilot
Flight Instructor (including Ground Instructor and Fundamentals of Instruction)
Sport Pilot
Sport Pilot Instructor and Examiner

$149.99

[buy now]
Airline Transport Pilot
Flight Engineer
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

$49.99

[buy now]
Private Pilot and Recreational Pilot
Instrument Rating (IFR)
Commercial Pilot
Flight and Ground Instructor
Airline Transport Pilot
Flight Engineer
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.
$129.99

[buy now]
Private Pilot and Recreational Pilot
Instrument Rating (IFR)
Commercial Pilot
Flight and Ground Instructor
Sport Pilot
Sport Pilot Instructor and Examiner
Airline Transport Pilot
Flight Engineer
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.
$174.99

[buy now]
+
GroundSchool + Safelog Combo
  Purchase GroundSchool (one test bank) together with Safelog, our electronic Pilot Logbook at a discounted combo price. A great deal!
$104.99

[buy now]
A&P General
A&P Airframe
A&P Powerplant
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.

$89.99

[buy now]
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.
$29.99

[buy now]
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.
$24.99

[buy now]


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.

FAA Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) Knowledge Test Score Results
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

Useful Documents
Instructors! Manage yours and/or your students' FAA Form 8710-1s - Application for Airman Certificate or Rating
VFR Flight Planning form
IFR Flight Planning form
Become a safer pilot - Learn Morse Code for Aviation
Aircraft Checklists to download
Library of Aviation
Passenger Safety Card
Useful Aviation Mnemonics
Reward for new FAA questions!

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.