Nursing scholarships in the USA provide aspiring nurses with financial assistance to help them achieve their academic and career goals without the burden of excessive student debt. There are numerous scholarship opportunities available.

Pursuing a career in nursing can be both fulfilling and financially challenging. As healthcare demands continue to grow, so does the need for well-trained and compassionate nurses. Nursing scholarships in the USA provide aspiring nurses with financial assistance to help them achieve their academic and career goals without the burden of excessive student debt. There are numerous scholarship opportunities available, ranging from general nursing scholarships to specialized programs aimed at specific demographics or areas of nursing.

This article explores some of the top nursing scholarships in the USA, providing a guide for students seeking financial support to make their nursing education more affordable.

1. HRSA Nursing Scholarship Program

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) offers one of the most well-known nursing scholarship programs in the USA. This federal scholarship provides full or partial tuition coverage, along with a monthly stipend for living expenses. In return, recipients must commit to working at a critical shortage facility (CSF) for at least two years after graduation. This program is designed to help underserved communities by encouraging nurses to serve where they are most needed.

Eligibility: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents enrolled in a nursing program, demonstrate financial need, and commit to the service obligation.

2. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Scholarships

The AACN is a national organization that provides scholarships to students pursuing nursing degrees at member institutions. Through partnerships with various foundations and organizations, the AACN offers multiple scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the specific program. These scholarships are available to students at all levels, from undergraduate to doctoral programs.

Eligibility: Varies depending on the specific scholarship, but generally requires enrollment in an accredited nursing program at an AACN-member school.

3. Tylenol Future Care Scholarship

The Tylenol Future Care Scholarship is a well-known national scholarship program that supports students pursuing degrees in healthcare, including nursing. Each year, Tylenol awards scholarships to students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a commitment to a career in healthcare.

Scholarship Amount: Awards range from $1,000 to $10,000.

Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing healthcare-related degrees, including nursing.

4. National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Scholarships

The NBNA provides scholarships to African American students who are pursuing a nursing degree. Each year, the NBNA offers a range of scholarships to NBNA members, supporting those who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to improving healthcare in underserved communities.

Scholarship Amount: Awards typically range from $1,000 to $6,000.

Eligibility: Applicants must be a member of the NBNA and enrolled in an accredited nursing program. Other requirements may vary based on individual scholarships.

5. Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) for Nursing

The Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) offers scholarships to Hispanic students pursuing a variety of academic fields, including nursing. This scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance to students of Hispanic descent who are committed to their education and professional development. Scholarships vary in amount and can be used to cover tuition, books, and other educational expenses.

Scholarship Amount: Awards range from $500 to $5,000.

Eligibility: Applicants must be of Hispanic heritage, U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents, and enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited nursing program.

6. Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association (FNSNA) Scholarships

The FNSNA offers scholarships to nursing students who demonstrate financial need and academic achievement. This organization is dedicated to supporting the next generation of nurses by providing scholarships that help cover the cost of tuition and other educational expenses. Scholarships are available to undergraduate nursing students enrolled in accredited nursing programs.

Scholarship Amount: Awards typically range from $1,000 to $7,500.

Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in a state-approved nursing program and demonstrate financial need and academic merit.

7. Nurse Corps Scholarship Program

The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program is designed for students who are pursuing a career in nursing and are committed to serving in healthcare facilities experiencing a critical shortage of nurses. The program covers tuition, fees, and other educational costs, and provides a monthly stipend. In return, recipients must commit to working in a critical shortage facility for at least two years after graduation.

Scholarship Amount: Full tuition and a monthly stipend.

Eligibility: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents, enrolled in a nursing program, and willing to fulfill the service commitment.

8. Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) Foundation Scholarships

The ENA Foundation offers scholarships to students pursuing a career in emergency nursing. These scholarships are designed to support nursing students who are committed to advancing their education and career in the field of emergency nursing. The ENA Foundation offers a variety of scholarships, including those for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students.

Scholarship Amount: Awards vary but typically range from $2,500 to $10,000.

Eligibility: Applicants must be pursuing a nursing degree with a focus on emergency care and be members of the Emergency Nurses Association.

9. Johnson & Johnson Nursing Scholarships

Johnson & Johnson has long supported the nursing profession through its Campaign for Nursing’s Future, which includes a variety of scholarships for nursing students. These scholarships are offered in partnership with nursing organizations and universities to help alleviate the financial burden of nursing education.

Scholarship Amount: Awards vary depending on the specific scholarship and partnership.

Eligibility: Requirements vary based on the individual scholarship programs, but generally include enrollment in an accredited nursing program.

10. State-Based Nursing Scholarships

Many states offer nursing scholarships to residents who are pursuing a nursing degree. These scholarships are typically designed to encourage students to practice nursing within their home state after graduation. Some state-based scholarships also have a service commitment, requiring recipients to work in underserved areas.

• Example: The Florida Nurses Association (FNA) offers scholarships for nursing students in the state of Florida. Similarly, the California State Nursing Assumption Program of Loans for Education (SNAPLE) offers loan repayment assistance to nurses who work in underserved areas within California.

Eligibility: Varies by state but generally requires residency, enrollment in a state-approved nursing program, and in some cases, a service commitment to work in the state after graduation.