Registered nurses are among the most in-demand jobs of our generation. The American Nurses Association (ANA) projects that with new job growth, higher median salary rates and growing employment rates of RNs, nursing ranks as the occupation with the most annual job openings between 2012 and 2022. Considering population growth, the need for nurses is expected to contingently rise which will make nursing students more than just occupationally secure, but in a global sense, necessary.
Are you considering pursuing a career in nursing? If so, you’re among the over 3 million Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in the U.S. working towards a healthier population. The road to becoming an RN involves both classroom and hands-on experience, which help prepare you to become the best nurse you can possibly be. Use our guide to learn more about how you can qualify to be a nurse and how you can fund your college education with financial aid opportunities and nursing scholarships.
The more prepared students are within their field of study, the more they are capable of giving back to their community in the form of jobs in hospitals, nursing care facilities, physicians offices, outpatient care centers, elementary and secondary schools, colleges and universities, residential facilities, and more.
“By 2022, Nursing employment rates are projected to increase by 20%, with over 3.5 million jobs available.” — American Nurses Association (ANA)
Nursing employment opportunities are only expected to rise over the next few years, but before students are ready to apply to a nursing program, first they must learn how to qualify to become a nurse.
How to Qualify to be a Nurse
1
Complete a Nursing Degree Program
Registered nurses typically choose between three types of degree programs: obtaining a diploma in nursing, an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing, or a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN) which includes practical training in the field. Choosing a more advanced and intensive course load offers more possibilities for employment within a variety of post-graduate nursing careers such as teaching, administration, consulting, and various healthcare settings.
2
Choose a Specialty
Nurses can receive credentials in pediatrics, ambulatory care, advanced practice nurses such as midwives, practitioners, and anesthetics, among many other specialized fields. The requirements for declaring specialties vary by state, but generally require at least a Master’s degree.
3
Obtain Licensing
All states require registered nurses to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), which is a 6-hour test that assesses students understanding of the nursing practice. Requirements for this license may vary by state.
Students working to memorize names of bones and muscles of the human anatomy have this app available to them to help with memorization and identification.
This resource for student nurses has information on jobs, news, events, awards, and a blog that offers tips on ways to become the best caretaker of not only patients, but of themselves.
Resources and tools are available through this site that are recommended by RNs practicing in the field, with everything from scholarships, to practice tests.
A site that combines the power of Twitter with Registered Nurses worldwide, offers a place to connect and share stories to publicly discuss topics pertaining to the nursing field.
This site offers a simple way to study and learn more about the nursing industry, complete with free modules, videos, tests, and more.
How to Pay for College
1
Scholarships
There are hundreds of scholarships for nursing students, which are awarded by local organizations, private companies, societies and more.
2
Grants
Grants don’t need to be paid back and are based on your financial circumstances. They are usually funded by the federal government, your state or college.
3
Fellowships
While scholarships usually fund tuition, fellowships typically cover graduate study, research projects and abroad experiences without needing to be paid back.
4
Student Loans
You can borrow money from the government or a bank, but it needs to be paid back with interest. The federal government offers many loan options—fill out the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for financial aid. If you need help, use our interactive guide to learn how to answer every question.
5
Federal Work-Study Program
Provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to pay education expenses.
If you’re just beginning the process of finding suitable scholarships, make sure you’re prepared for the application process by starting a folder with the assets below.
States and universities have different application requirements regarding prerequisite classes needed for admission into BSN programs. Check university websites for information on specific requirements needed prior to acceptance.
Not all scholarships are based off of your GPA, but most need to verify your high school education to qualify. Try to get certified copies of your transcript early, so you have plenty of time to meet the deadline.
Although there are scholarship opportunities that aren’t merit-based, it’s valuable to take the SAT or ACT standardized tests in case it’s a scholarship qualification.
Your scholarship essay is what will bring attention to your application out of the pool of applicants. That’s why it’s important to craft a stand out piece that attests to your experience, adheres to the scholarship guidelines and most importantly, highlights your true personality.
Letters of recommendation are a true judgement of your character—something that can’t be revealed through your test scores or transcript. Reach out to former teachers, counselors or bosses, so that they can speak to your qualifications. You may also want to provide them with a resume that outlines your achievements and goals as well.
Nursing Scholarships
Instructions:Click through the dropdowns below to sort by the region you reside, award amount and if you qualify for need-based aid.
The Nursing Foundation of Pennsylvania Future Nurse Leader Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
March 30, 2020
The Nursing Foundation of Pennsylvania Future Nurse Leader Scholarship exists to provide scholarships to students demonstrating leadership skills in their pursuit of a nursing degree. Funds are for full-time nursing students in an accredited BSN program in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Anna N Dosen Serbian Educational Fund
Amount: $3,000
Deadline:
March 31, 2020
Graduating seniors and undergraduate students are eligible to apply for this award. Must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher and pursue a degree in health related fields. Preference to students of Serbian heritage.
A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship
Amount: up to $2,000
Deadline:
March 31, 2020
This scholarship is awarded to college students who are AISES members of American Indian or Alaskan Native ethnicity, and are pursuing a degree in engineering, medicine, natural resources, math, and other sciences. Must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Native American and Alaska Natives are preferred.
Barbara Rhomberg Nursing Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
March 31, 2020
This sponsored scholarship is awarded each year to one non-traditional full-time student pursuing undergraduate study in nursing.
Barbara Rhomberg Nursing Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
March 31, 2020
The Barbara Rhomberg Excellence in Nursing Scholarship, sponsored by B4 Brands, is awarded each year to a non-traditional, fulltime student pursuing undergraduate degrees in nursing.
David E. Knox Memorial Fellowship
Amount: $2,500
Deadline:
April 9, 2020
The Alaska Community Foundation offer this nursing fellowship to students committed to praticing as a nurse/RN in a small community within the state of Alaska for a minimum of one year. Compassion, organization, academic leadership and community leadership will be considered. Must have a GPA of 3.0 to apply.
A Nurse I Am Film & Scholarship Program
Amount: $2,000
Deadline:
April 15, 2020
This scholarship is endorsed by donors accredited to the film "A Nurse I Am." Winners of this award call attention to the immense dedication, compassion, intelligence and skill that nurses and other healthcare professionals demonstrate every day. Applicant must be a student who is currently enrolled in an accredited LVN/LPN, RN degree (ADN or BSN), diploma, or RN-to-BSN program.
Heartland Foundation : Mary Ann Reinert Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
April 15, 2020
Applicants who are pursuing careers in surgical nursing or surgical services, including nursing, technology or any other surgical-related field are preferred for this scholarship. Must be enrolled for 12 credit hours, and maintain a 2.5 GPA or higher to apply.
OMNE Nursing Leaders of Maine Scholarships
Amount: $500
Deadline:
May 1, 2020
Any Maine individual enrolled in a Maine accredited BSN or MSN nursing bachelor's degree program is eligible to apply.
The Senior Care Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
May 1, 2020
Students of all levels of study pursuing academic work in hopes of working with the elderly are encouraged to apply for this award. Scholarship will be awarded based on essay and/or video submission.
Health Careers Scholarship Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
May 6, 2020
Students pursuing a degree in healthcare are eligible to apply for this award. Recipients will be chosen based on the required essay prompt and financial need.
Smith Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
May 12, 2020
Students enrolled in Oregon state pursuing a degree in Nursing are eligible for this award. Applicants will be reviewed on commitment to furthering career in Oregon state, leadership abilities, and financial need.
University of Alabama Binghamton Sponsored Scholarships
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
May 15, 2020
The University of Alabama Binghamton sponsors scholarships that apply to students across the state of Alabama, specifically within the school of Nursing. Applicants should check the scholarship website for specific eligibility requirements.
Exceptional Nurse Scholarships
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
June 1, 2020
These scholarships are available to students studying nursing, who are either studying to work with patients with disabilities, or have a disability of their own. Applicants must be full-time students to be considered.
American Indian Nurse Scholarship Awards
Amount: $1,500
Deadline:
June 1, 2020
Candidates must be at least 1/4 American Indian and enrolled in a tribe, or able to prove direct tribal ancestry. Candidates must be enrolled an undergraduate or graduate nursing program are eligible.
Undergraduate Education Nursing Scholarship
Amount: $500-$1,000
Deadline:
June 1, 2020
Students currently enrolled in a nursing program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and are residents of Rhode Island are eligible to apply. Must demonstrate clinical proficiency, enthusiasm, and motivation within their studies.
Nurse Education Assistance Loan Program (NEALP)
Amount: $1,500
Deadline:
July 15, 2020
Applicant must be an Ohio resident and enrolled in or be accepted for enrollment approved nurse education programs in Ohio colleges, universities, hospitals, or vocational schools. Must show academic excellence.
Josh Gottheil Memorial Bone Marrow Transplant Career Development Awards
Amount: $2,000
Deadline:
July 15, 2020
Must be currently employed as a registered nurse working in bone marrow transplantation. Two or more years BMT nursing practice.
AACN Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
Deadline:
July 15, 2020
This scholarship program is available to prelicensure students enrolled at member AACN schools.
HURST/AACN Nursing Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
Deadline:
July 15, 2020
This scholarship program is available to prelicensure students enrolled at member AACN schools. See website to find out if your school is a member.
AACN Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
Deadline:
July 15, 2020
This scholarship program is available to prelicensure students enrolled at member AACN schools.
Creative Biolabs Scholarship Program
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
July 20, 2020
Students worldwide are eligible to apply for this scholarship. Undergraduate, graduate and Ph.D. students, majoring in a science related field such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry, and molecular biology, are encouraged to apply. Must have a 3.0 GPA to be considered.
Creative Biolabs Scholarship Program
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
July 20, 2020
Students worldwide are eligible to apply for this scholarship. Undergraduate, graduate and Ph.D. students, majoring in a science related field such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry, and molecular biology, are encouraged to apply. Must have a 3.0 GPA to be considered.
Michigan Nurses Foundation Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
July 31, 2020
Nursing students currently enrolled in a Michigan college or university in good academic standing are encouraged to apply. Candidates must demonstrate progress towards degree completion.
2018 Nurses Make a Difference Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
August 1, 2020
Must have at least a 3.0 GPA, be a legal resident of the USA or hold a student visa, and be a current undergrad student in a nursing degree program. High school students accepted into a college and planning to study nursing also eligible.
Emergency Nurse Association Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
August 1, 2020
The Emergency Nurses Association offer a range of scholarships to support residents of the state of Texas who are pursuing a degree in Nursing, but especially emergency nursing. Applicants must be a TXENA member, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher to apply.
NPO Nanette Clapper Memorial Scholarship for Students in Nurse Practitioner Education Programs
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
August 1, 2020
Emerging nurse practitioners of Oregon state are encouraged to apply for this scholarship. RN's are also eligible to apply. See website for more details and eligibility requirements.
ACNL Leadership Scholarship/Fellowship/Grant
Amount: up to $7,500
Deadline:
August 26, 2020
The Association of California Nurse Leaders offer annual scholarships, fellowships, and grants to support leadership excellence among California's aspiring nurses. Applicants are not required to be registered with the ACNL to apply.
Flowers 4 the Float
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
August 31, 2020
This is an academic scholarship awarded to a registered nurse pursuing either an ADN to BSN or BSN to MSN degree. Membership in ACNL or California residency is NOT required to apply for the Nurse’s Float Scholarship.
$1,000 "RN to BSN/MSN Challenge" Scholarship!
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
September 1, 2020
Registered Nurses (RN) working towards their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) are encouraged to apply.
$1,000 "RN to BSN/MSN Challenge" Scholarship!
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
September 1, 2020
Registered Nurses (RN) working towards their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) are encouraged to apply.
Naomi Brack Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
September 30, 2020
The OADN Association sponsors this scholarship to second year students enrolled in a nursing program in North Dakota. Students must have a 2.5 GPA to be considered.
Ohio College Opportunity Grant
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
October 1, 2020
Applicant must be enrolled in an associates degree, first bachelors degree, or nurse diploma program at an eligible Ohio or Pennsylvania institution with a maximum household income of $96,000.
South Dakota Department of Health scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
October 1, 2020
The South Dakota Board of Nursing sponsors this scholarship for students who have resided in the state for at least one year, and are pursuing a career in nursing. RN applications due June 1. LPN applications due October 1.
American Cancer Society Doctoral Degree Scholarship
Amount: $15,000
Deadline:
October 15, 2020
Students pursuing their doctorate in cancer nursing research are eligible to apply for this renewable scholarship. Students must demonstrate satisfactory progress in their doctoral programs in cancer nursing research.
Geraldine “Polly” Bednash Scholarship
Amount: $5,000
Deadline:
October 31, 2020
Applicants must be admitted or enrolled in a baccalaureate or higher degree nursing program at an AACN member institution affiliated with CastleBranch., or have submitted their application to a nursing school through NursingCAS.
ACLS Mental Health Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
Deadline:
November 30, 2020
To apply, create a 30-45 second video sharing the importance of mental health. Must be uploaded to YouTube using the hashtag #mentalhealthscholarship.
Nurses Foundation of Wisconsin Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
Registered nurses of Wisconsin are eligible for this award that provides financial assistance to students who demonstrate strong contributions within the community. Must be enrolled in a university in Wisconsin, and be a current WNA member.
James F Reville Scholarship
Amount: $3,000
Deadline:
January 15, 2021
Full time students enrolled in a healthcare program are eligible to apply for this award. Students' training must be in a field related to intellectual or other developmental disabilities.
FNSNA Scholarship
Amount: up to $7,500
Deadline:
January 15, 2021
Students enrolled in an accredited nursing program are eligible to apply. Must be a U.S. citizen in pursuit of a degree in healthcare to be considered. Please note, the FNSNA charges $10 to apply for this scholarship.
Good Samaritan Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
February 15, 2021
The Good Samaritan Foundation sponsors students in good academic standing for their pursuit of a career in nursing. Applicants are asked to submit their transcript and letter of recommendation to apply.
Mary Barker APRN Nursing Scholarship
Amount: $2,000
Deadline:
March 1, 2021
Nurses currently enrolled in or about to egin graduate school are eligible to apply.
