The Nursing Corps Scholarship Program is a popular financial aid option for those aspiring to become nurses. This guide explains everything you need to know about the program, including eligibility, the application process, service commitments, and the long-term benefits for your nursing career.
What Is the Nursing Corps Scholarship Program?
The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program, managed by the Bureau of Health Workforce under the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), aims to strengthen the healthcare workforce and improve access to care for underserved populations.
This competitive program provides financial support to nursing students in exchange for a minimum two-year full-time (or part-time equivalent) service commitment at a healthcare facility facing a critical nursing shortage.
Updates for 2025
Starting in fiscal year 2025, the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program is introducing key changes:
- Increased Funding: An additional $3 million will support students pursuing registered nursing degrees alongside entry-level health certifications.
- Expanded Eligibility: Birth Centers are now classified as a subtype of Critical Shortage Facilities.
- New Portal Name: The Bureau of Health Workforce Customer Service Portal has been renamed “My BHW Account.”
Nursing Corps Scholarship Program 2025 Application Dates:
Opening Date: March 27, 2025
Submission Deadline: April 24, 2025, by 7:30 p.m. ET
Award Notification: September 30, 2025
Benefits of the Scholarship Program
The program offers one of the most comprehensive financial aid packages for nursing students, including:
- Full tuition and fees coverage, regardless of the nursing program’s cost
- Monthly stipend (around $1,419 for the 2023-2024 academic year) for living expenses
- Funds for books, clinical supplies, and equipment
- One-time initial payment to cover other education-related costs
With this scholarship, nursing students can graduate without the burden of student debt, which is a significant advantage in a field where education costs can exceed $100,000. This scholarship is available for various nursing education paths, including:
- Diploma programs
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Graduate nursing degrees (MSN, DNP, PhD)
Nursing Corps Scholarship Program Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, you:
- Must be U.S. citizens (by birth or naturalization), U.S. nationals, or lawful permanent residents and must submit valid, unexpired documentation as proof of status. Acceptable documents include a U.S. birth certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, Naturalization Certificate, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card, or an unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
- Are an accepted or enrolled student in a nursing degree program at a United States accredited school of nursing
- Begin classes no later than September 30
- Don’t have any federal judgment liens
- Don’t have an existing service commitment
- Aren’t overdue on a federal debt
The selection process is competitive, with preference given to applicants who show:
- Financial need
- Strong academic performance
- Commitment to working in underserved areas
- Experience in underserved communities
- A genuine passion for nursing
Understanding the Service Commitment
The Nursing Corps Scholarship Program requires recipients to fulfill a service commitment after graduation:
- Service Requirement: Work as a registered nurse in a Critical Shortage Facility (CSF) within a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA).
- Commitment Length: At least two years of full-time service.
- Service Ratio: For every year of scholarship support, you must serve one year in an underserved area, with a minimum of two years of service.
Eligible facilities include hospitals, clinics, rural health centers, nursing homes, and other healthcare providers located in shortage areas. The program helps graduates find placements that match their skills and passions.
Application Guideline for the Nursing Corps Scholarship Program
To apply for the Nursing Corps Scholarship, follow these steps:
- Create an account in the HRSA Program Portal.
- Complete the online application with personal, educational, and financial information.
- Submit the required documents, including:
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of enrollment or acceptance into a nursing program
- Financial documents
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Sign the contract outlining your service commitment and scholarship terms.
- Submit your completed application by the annual deadline.
Application Tips:
- Start your application early
- Emphasize both financial need and your dedication to serving underserved communities.
- Write personal essays that highlight your passion for nursing and service.
- Choose recommenders who can speak to your character and commitment to healthcare.
- Double-check that all required documents are submitted correctly.
You can find a detailed application guideline HERE.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I apply if I’m already in nursing school? Yes, current nursing students can apply if they have at least one year of education left.
- What happens if I don’t complete my service? You will have to repay the scholarship funds with interest (7% per year) and face additional penalties.
- Can I choose where I serve? While you can express preferences, placements depend on the needs of shortage facilities.
- Is the stipend taxable? Yes, the monthly stipend is taxable, but tuition and fees paid directly to the school are not taxed.
- Can part-time students apply? No, applicants must be enrolled as full-time students.
Alternative Nursing Scholarships
If the Nursing Corps Scholarship isn’t right for you, consider these alternatives:
- National Health Service Corps Scholarship (for nurse practitioners)
- HRSA Nurse Faculty Loan Program (for advanced nursing degrees)
- State-specific nursing incentive programs
- Hospital and healthcare system tuition reimbursement programs
- Scholarships from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing
- National Student Nurses’ Association Foundation scholarships
Maximizing Your Nursing Corps Scholarship Experience
To make the most of the Nursing Corps Scholarship:
- Network with fellow scholarship recipients.
- Explore specialties in underserved areas during clinical rotations.
- Seek mentorship from nurses already working in shortage facilities.
- Develop cultural competency to serve diverse populations effectively.
- Learn resource management skills, essential in underserved settings.
Conclusion: Is the Nursing Corps Scholarship Right for You?
The Nursing Corps Scholarship Program is a valuable opportunity for nursing students dedicated to making an impact in underserved communities. It offers generous financial support, ensures job placement after graduation, and provides a path to a fulfilling nursing career. If you’re passionate about helping others and addressing healthcare disparities, this scholarship could be the perfect fit.
Before applying, assess whether you’re ready to commit to serving in a shortage area. For many recipients, this experience becomes a rewarding chapter in their nursing careers, leading to opportunities in public health and community healthcare.
For the most current application details, visit the HRSA website.