Nursing is a calling that requires dedication, compassion, and education. To support aspiring and current nurses, numerous scholarships for nursing students help ease the financial burden of tuition and related expenses. Various organizations offer these scholarships, including healthcare institutions, government agencies, and private foundations; some focus on academic excellence, while others prioritize financial need or commitment to serving in underserved areas. Opportunities range from general nursing scholarships to specialized awards for specific fields like pediatric or geriatric nursing. Additionally, scholarships for minority nursing students and those pursuing advanced degrees further expand access to funding. Exploring available scholarships can open doors to educational opportunities, empowering future nurses to make a lasting impact in healthcare while reducing financial stress.
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The Best Scholarships for Nursing Students
This guide highlights some of the best scholarships for nursing students, providing valuable financial support for those pursuing a healthcare career. Each scholarship has unique eligibility requirements, focusing on academic excellence, financial need, community service, and dedication to the nursing profession. Understanding these opportunities allows students to strategically apply for funding, reducing tuition costs and easing financial burdens. Exploring available scholarships helps identify the best fit based on career aspirations and educational goals.
Here is a list of the best Scholarships for Nursing Students:
- Scrubin Uniforms/AACN Scholarship
- Coursey Enterprises Scholarship
- ANURSEIAM-Cherokee Uniforms
- Caroline E. Holt Nursing
- Bio-Oil® Labor of Love Scholarship
- Deborah E. Trautman Future Nurse Leader Scholarship
- QGenda – AACN Scholarship
- Nurse Corps Scholarship Program
- Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association (FNSNA) Scholarship
- National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Scholarship Program
- Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) Foundation Scholarships
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Scholarship
- Army Nurse Corps Association (ANCA) Scholarship Program
- Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. Scholarships
- American Indian Nurse Scholarship Program
How to Apply for Scholarships for Nursing Students?
Securing a scholarship for nursing school requires careful planning and strategic application. With numerous opportunities available, understanding the process can increase the chances of success. From researching the right scholarships to submitting a compelling application, following a structured approach helps maximize financial aid opportunities. Here are some key tips to simplify the application process:
- Identify Relevant Scholarships – Search for scholarships specific to nursing students based on academic achievements, financial need, or community involvement.
- Start Researching Early – Many scholarships have deadlines months in advance, so early preparation ensures access to more opportunities.
- Check Eligibility Requirements – Each scholarship has specific criteria, such as GPA, enrollment status, or specialization. Verify qualifications before applying.
- Prepare Strong Application Materials – Craft a compelling personal statement, highlight achievements, and secure strong recommendation letters.
- Organize Application Deadlines – Keep track of submission dates to avoid missing out on valuable funding opportunities.
- Seek School and Community Resources – Consult nursing advisors, financial aid offices, and local organizations for additional scholarship leads.
- Apply for Multiple Scholarships – Increase chances of success by submitting applications to several relevant scholarships.
- Avoid Scholarship Scams – Be cautious of scholarships requiring payment or personal financial details. Legitimate scholarships do not charge application fees.
- Follow Application Instructions – Carefully adhere to submission guidelines, essay prompts, and required documentation.
- Stay Persistent – Rejections happen, but continued effort and multiple applications improve the likelihood of receiving funding.
By following these steps, nursing students can navigate the scholarship process effectively and secure financial support for their education.
The Best Scholarships for Nursing Scholarships — Details
Here is a detailed list of the top 10 Scholarships for Nursing Scholarships:
| Scholarship | Description | Application Deadline | Award/Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scrubin Uniforms/AACN Scholarship | The Scrubin Uniforms/AACN Scholarship supports nursing students in baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral programs at AACN member schools with a formal affiliation agreement with Scrubin Uniforms. Administered by AACN’s Foundation for Academic Nursing, this scholarship prioritizes students interested in serving as faculty after graduation. Funding comes from a percentage of Scrubin Uniforms’ sales. | Varies | $2500 |
| Coursey Enterprises Scholarship | The Coursey Enterprises Scholarship supports first-year nursing students by awarding scholarships each spring and fall semester. Designed to ease the financial burden of nursing education, this scholarship provides assistance to students as they begin their journey in the field. Applicants must submit an online application within the designated timeframe to be considered for the award. | June 1 annually | $500 |
| ANURSEIAM-Cherokee Uniforms | The ANURSEIAM-Cherokee Uniforms Scholarship, sponsored by Cherokee Uniforms, supports nursing students pursuing undergraduate or graduate education. This scholarship aims to help future nurses achieve their academic and professional goals. Recipients receive financial assistance for tuition and a gift package featuring premium scrubs. Eligible students must be enrolled in an accredited nursing program within the U.S. | Varies | $3000 |
| Caroline E. Holt Nursing | The Caroline E. Holt Nursing Scholarship provides financial support to nursing students demonstrating financial need. This one-time award is available to those accepted into or currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program. Applicants must submit proof of enrollment, such as a letter of acceptance or transcript, to be considered for this competitive scholarship opportunity. | January 31 annually | $2500 to 3 students |
| Bio-Oil® Labor of Love Scholarship | The Bio-Oil® Labor of Love Scholarship, in partnership with AACN, supports nursing students dedicated to pursuing careers in labor and delivery. This scholarship aims to empower future nurses to make a meaningful impact in maternal care. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, submit one academic reference, and complete a 500-word essay outlining their plan to become a labor and delivery nurse after graduation. | Varies | $5000 to 10 students |
| Deborah E. Trautman Future Nurse Leader Scholarship | The Deborah E. Trautman Future Nurse Leader Scholarship, funded by Liaison International, supports graduate nursing students who aspire to leadership roles in academic nursing. Open to students in master’s or doctoral programs at AACN-affiliated schools, this scholarship provides financial assistance and leadership development opportunities, including participation in AACN conferences and mentorship with nursing leaders. | Varies | $3500 |
| QGenda – AACN Scholarship | The QGenda – AACN Scholarship supports nursing students in undergraduate and graduate programs at AACN member schools. This scholarship recognizes academic excellence and commitment to the nursing profession. Eligible applicants must meet GPA requirements, provide a reference, and submit an essay detailing their impact as a future nurse or how a nurse has influenced them. | July entry-level baccalaureate programs, February accelerated baccalaureate or master’s programs, and October master’s and doctoral programs. | $5000 |
| Nurse Corps Scholarship Program | The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program supports nursing students by covering tuition, fees, and other educational costs while providing a monthly stipend. In return, recipients commit to working at a critical shortage facility after graduation. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in an accredited nursing program and demonstrate financial need. | Varies | Varies |
| Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association (FNSNA) Scholarship | The Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association (FNSNA) Scholarship supports undergraduate nursing students enrolled in state-approved programs, including ADN, BSN, diploma, and direct-entry master’s degrees. Scholarships are awarded based on sponsor-defined criteria, often focusing on specialization or underrepresented populations. FNSNA collaborates with Johnson & Johnson to promote diversity and health equity in nursing. | Varies | Varies |
| National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Scholarship Program | The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Scholarship Program supports nursing students at all levels through awards from NBNA chapters, corporate sponsors, and individual donors. Scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, and research contributions. NBNA has awarded substantial funding, including scholarships honoring pioneers like Della H. Raney and Lynne Edwards, to advance diversity in nursing. | May annually | $2000 |
| Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) Foundation Scholarships | The ENA Foundation supports the advancement of emergency nursing through annual scholarships. Academic scholarships assist members and nonmembers pursuing degrees from associate to doctoral levels. Conference scholarships help members attend ENA’s premier education and networking event. These opportunities strengthen the emergency nursing workforce and promote continued professional development. | Varies | Varies |
| American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Scholarship | The AACN Continuing Professional Development Scholarships support the ongoing growth of acute and critical care nurses. Available exclusively to AACN members, these scholarships provide funding for educational activities that address knowledge gaps and advance professional development. Applicants must submit a personalized learning plan outlining how the opportunity aligns with their career goals. | Varies | Varies |
| Army Nurse Corps Association (ANCA) Scholarship Program | The Army Nurse Corps Association Scholarship Program supports nursing students with a connection to the U.S. Army. Eligible applicants include those currently enrolled in accredited baccalaureate, graduate, or nurse anesthesia programs who have served or have immediate family with Army service. The scholarship promotes nursing education and career advancement in military-affiliated communities. | March 30, 2025 | Varies |
| Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. Scholarships | Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. (NEF) provides scholarships to support nursing leadership in education, practice, research, and administration. Funded through donations from individuals, organizations, and corporations, NEF scholarships help professional nurses pursue master’s and doctoral degrees. As an independent nonprofit, NEF remains dedicated to advancing the nursing profession through annual scholarship opportunities. | February annually | Varies |
| American Indian Nurse Scholarship Program | The American Indian Nurse Scholarship Program, established in 1928, supports students of American Indian descent pursuing careers in nursing, healthcare, and health education. Recipients are encouraged to serve Indigenous communities, improving healthcare access. Open to undergraduate and graduate students, the scholarship helps fund tuition and academic expenses for those demonstrating financial need and strong academic performance. | Varies | $1500 per semester |
Ways to Pay for Nursing Students
Here are a few more ways students can fund their program:
Scholarships
Scholarships provide financial assistance to students based on academic achievement, leadership, community service, or financial need. They help reduce educational expenses, making higher education more accessible. Offered by universities, organizations, and corporations, scholarships support diverse fields of study and career goals, empowering students to achieve academic and professional success.
Grants
Grants are financial awards governments, organizations, or institutions provide to support education, research, or projects. Unlike loans, they do not require repayment. Grants are often awarded based on financial need, academic merit, or specific proposals, helping individuals and organizations achieve goals without the burden of financial debt.
Student Loans
Student loans are financial aid options that help cover education costs, including tuition, fees, and living expenses. Unlike grants or scholarships, loans must be repaid with interest. They can be federal or private, with repayment terms varying based on the lender, interest rates, and borrower’s financial situation.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships provide financial support to graduate students in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative duties. These positions often include tuition waivers and stipends, helping to offset education costs. Assistantships offer valuable professional experience, mentorship opportunities, and skill development while allowing students to contribute to their academic institution.
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the key to accessing federal financial aid for college and graduate school. It determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs. Many states and institutions also use FAFSA data to award additional aid, making it essential for funding higher education.
Additional Resources for Nursing Students
Nursing students can benefit from resources that foster learning, mentorship, and professional growth. Many organizations, forums, and support networks provide collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and career advancement opportunities. These platforms connect students with experienced professionals, financial aid options, and educational tools. Below are some key resources designed to support nursing students throughout their academic and professional journeys.
The American Journal of Nursing (AJN) is the oldest and most respected peer-reviewed nursing journal. It publishes evidence-based clinical articles, original research, and professional discussions. Adhering to high editorial standards, AJN promotes nursing excellence and healthcare advancements. Indexed in major databases, it remains a leading resource for nurses and healthcare professionals worldwide.
American Nurse Today is the official journal of the American Nurses Association, providing peer-reviewed clinical content, career insights, and industry updates. It covers evidence-based practices, leadership, and healthcare trends. With a focus on professional development and nursing excellence, the journal is a vital resource for nurses seeking to enhance patient care and advance their careers.
Evidence-Based Nursing publishes expert commentaries and summaries of high-quality nursing research from international healthcare journals. Applying strict validity criteria highlights key findings and their implications for practice. Co-owned by RCNi and BMJ, the journal is a critical resource for advancing nursing knowledge and promoting best practices through rigorously appraised research.
Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments
The Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments (ANHE) is the only national nursing organization dedicated to connecting health and the environment. ANHE educates and empowers nurses to integrate environmental health into practice, research, and policy, addressing disparities and promoting sustainable healthcare to protect communities and future generations.
American Association for the History of Nursing
The American Association for the History of Nursing (AAHN) explores how historical insights shape modern nursing practice. Nursing history is more than commemoration—it offers lessons, inspiration, and context for today’s evolving healthcare landscape. AAHN encourages nurses to engage with the past, honoring pioneers whose efforts continue to influence the profession’s values and direction.
FAQs About Scholarships for Nursing Students
What types of scholarships are available for nursing students?
Nursing students can access various scholarships, including merit-based, need-based, diversity-focused, military-affiliated, and employer-sponsored awards. Some scholarships support specific nursing fields like pediatrics or oncology, while others assist graduate students, returning nurses, or those in rural healthcare. Professional nursing associations and healthcare organizations also offer scholarship opportunities.
Are there scholarships specifically for undergraduate nursing students?
Can I apply for multiple nursing scholarships at the same time?
What are the typical eligibility requirements for nursing scholarships?
Are there scholarships for international students pursuing nursing degrees?
Do I have to be enrolled in an accredited nursing program to qualify?
Are there scholarships specifically for minority nursing students?
Can I get a scholarship if I’m studying nursing online?
Are there nursing scholarships based on financial need?
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