Training to become an RN or LPN can be expensive; apply for nursing scholarships to help cover the cost. Nursing is one of many current in-demand health care professions, with a projected growth rate of 22% by 2018 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Don’t let high tuition costs deter you from receiving your nursing degree. Apply for the following nursing scholarships today: military scholarships, federal scholarships, and location-based scholarships.
Apply for Military Nursing Scholarships
Ask most people why they joined the military, and they’ll either say “to serve my country” or “to get a free education”. The Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force all offer excellent nursing scholarships. Scholarships are based on grades and merit, not financial need. One of the most popular military scholarships is the Air Force ROTC Nursing Scholarship, which currently pays $15,000 per year for tuition and $510 for books. Tina Jefferson, a nursing student in Illinois, is a huge fan of the nursing scholarship she received from the Air Force: “Thanks to the Air Force, my education was totally 100% free. They paid everything, even books and room and board. I never would have been able to afford my nursing degree without my scholarship”. Also worth noting: military scholarships are usually also available for veterans and their children.
Apply for Federal Nursing Scholarships
In addition to pell grants and loans, the federal government has programs specifically designed for nursing majors. The Nursing Scholarship Program is a scholarship offered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It covers tuition and books, and even offers a monthly stipend. However, this scholarship requires a 2 year commitment to work as a nurse in an area deemed by the government as having a critical shortage of nurses. If you fail to meet this commitment, you will be responsible for repaying your scholarship. If you plan on pursuing a Master’s Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner or Certified Nurse-Midwife, the National Health Service Corps Scholarship will provide a monthly stipend of $1,269 in addition to covering books and tuition. This scholarship requires a one year employment commitment at an approved site.
Apply for Location-Based Nursing Scholarships
Don’t want to commit to the military or deal with the requirements most federal nursing scholarships entail? Search for scholarships in your city or state. Currently, all states offer their own nursing scholarships. You can find these scholarships by contacting the college of your choice. Because of the high demand for nurses, thousands of colleges offer nursing scholarships.