USA Scholarships for Nursing Students: Nursing is one of the most rewarding and in-demand professions in the United States. However, pursuing a nursing degree can be financially challenging.
Thankfully, there are numerous scholarships available for nursing students in 2025 that can help ease the burden of tuition and related expenses.
Whether you’re a high school senior planning to enrol in nursing school, a current nursing student, or a registered nurse seeking to advance your career, this guide will provide you with the top scholarships available for nursing students in the U.S.
In this article, we’ll explore the best USA scholarships for nursing students in 2025, their eligibility requirements, application processes, and tips for applying successfully.
Why Scholarships for Nursing Students Matter
The United States faces a growing shortage of qualified nurses, with the Bureau of Labour Statistics projecting a need for over 203,000 new registered nurses (RNs) annually through 2031.
Nursing scholarships play a critical role in addressing this shortage by helping students afford the cost of education while encouraging more individuals to enter the field.
Scholarships can also reduce reliance on student loans, allowing nursing graduates to start their careers without overwhelming debt. For many aspiring nurses, these scholarships are a lifeline to achieving their dreams.
Top 10 Scholarships for Nursing Students in the USA (2025)
Here’s a list of the best scholarships available to nursing students in 2025.
These scholarships cater to various demographics, including high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate students, minorities, and non-traditional students.
1. Tylenol Future Care Scholarship
- Award Amount: $1,000–$10,000
- Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing healthcare-related degrees, including nursing.
- Application Deadline: Typically in June (check their website for 2025 updates).
- How to Apply: Submit transcripts, an essay, and proof of enrolment in a nursing or healthcare program.
- Website: Tylenol Scholarship
2. HRSA Nursing Scholarship Program
- Award Amount: Full tuition, fees, and a monthly stipend of $1,400.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens or legal residents enrolled in accredited nursing programs. Recipients must commit to working in underserved areas after graduation.
- Application Deadline: April 2025.
- How to Apply: Complete the online application and submit supporting documents, including proof of financial need.
- Website: HRSA Nursing Scholarship
3. American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Scholarship
- Award Amount: $2,500 per semester.
- Eligibility: Students enrolled in AACN member schools pursuing a baccalaureate, master’s, or doctoral nursing degree.
- Application Deadline: Varies by program.
- How to Apply: Submit an essay and academic transcripts.
- Website: AACN Scholarships
4. Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association (FNSNA) Scholarship
- Award Amount: $1,000–$7,500.
- Eligibility: Pre-nursing and nursing students enrolled in state-approved programs.
- Application Deadline: January 2025.
- How to Apply: Provide a letter of recommendation, financial need documentation, and an essay.
- Website: FNSNA Scholarship
5. NURSE Corps Scholarship Program
- Award Amount: Covers tuition, fees, and other costs, plus a monthly stipend.
- Eligibility: Students enrolled in accredited nursing programs who commit to working in underserved areas.
- Application Deadline: May 2025.
- How to Apply: Submit an application, transcripts, and a service agreement.
- Website: NURSE Corps
6. Hurst Review/AACN Nursing Scholarship
- Award Amount: $2,500.
- Eligibility: Students enrolled in AACN member schools.
- Application Deadline: Varies; awarded three times per year.
- How to Apply: Submit an application and proof of enrolment.
- Website: Hurst Review Scholarship
7. National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Scholarship
- Award Amount: $1,000–$5,000.
- Eligibility: African-American nursing students who are NBNA members.
- Application Deadline: April 2025.
- How to Apply: Submit a personal statement, proof of enrolment, and letters of recommendation.
- Website: NBNA Scholarship
8. Hispanic Health Professional Student Scholarship
- Award Amount: $2,000–$5,000.
- Eligibility: Hispanic students pursuing nursing or other healthcare degrees.
- Application Deadline: October 2025.
- How to Apply: Provide proof of Hispanic heritage, transcripts, and a personal essay.
- Website: Hispanic Scholarship Fund
9. Army Nurse Corps Association (ANCA) Scholarship
- Award Amount: $3,000.
- Eligibility: Nursing students with prior military service or whose parent/guardian served in the military.
- Application Deadline: March 2025.
- How to Apply: Submit an application, transcripts, and proof of military affiliation.
- Website: ANCA Scholarship
10. March of Dimes Graduate Nursing Scholarship
- Award Amount: $5,000.
- Eligibility: Registered nurses pursuing graduate studies in maternal-child nursing.
- Application Deadline: January 2025.
- How to Apply: Submit a completed application, proof of RN licensure, and an essay.
- Website: March of Dimes Scholarship
Tips for Applying to Nursing Scholarships
- Start Early: Many scholarships have deadlines months before the academic year begins. Mark these deadlines on your calendar.
- Tailor Your Application: Customise your essays and application materials to highlight your passion for nursing and your commitment to the field.
- Organise Your Documents: Keep transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of enrolment handy to streamline the application process.
- Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Increase your chances by applying to as many scholarships as you qualify for.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Incomplete applications are often disqualified. Double-check all requirements before submitting.
Final Thoughts
The USA offers a wealth of scholarships for nursing students in 2025, catering to diverse needs and backgrounds.
By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can significantly reduce the financial burden of nursing school and focus on building a fulfilling career in healthcare.
Start your scholarship search today, and take the first step toward making your nursing dreams a reality.
