Scholarships and Grants for NP and APRN Students

Pursuing an advanced nursing degree, such as becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is of interest to many RNs. However, the financial burden associated with advanced nursing education can be substantial. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships and resources available to help reduce costs.. This article explores key scholarship opportunities and resources that aspiring NPs and APRNs can consider.​

Why Scholarships Matter for NP and APRN Students

Pursuing an advanced nursing degree is not just academically demanding. It can be expensive! Scholarships can help qualified candidates advance their education. By securing scholarship support, students can focus more on clinical training and less on financial stress. 

These awards also reduce the need for loans, helping graduates enter the workforce with less debt, which is especially important in primary care roles that serve underserved populations. Financial aid is crucial, but so is securing strong clinical placements. Learn more about the preceptor challenges NP students face and how to plan ahead.


1. Federal Scholarship Programs

National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarship Program

The NHSC Scholarship Program, administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), offers scholarships to students pursuing primary care health professions training, including nurse practitioner programs. In exchange for a commitment to provide primary care services in underserved communities, the scholarship covers tuition, fees, and provides a monthly stipend.

The service obligation is typically two years, with the possibility of extension based on the length of scholarship support received. For more information, visit the NHSC Scholarships page.​National Health Service CorpsBureau of Health Workforce+4National Health Service Corps+4National Health Service Corps+4Bureau of Health Workforce

Nurse Corps Scholarship Program

Also managed by HRSA, the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program provides financial support to nursing students in exchange for a minimum two-year, full-time service commitment at an eligible health care facility with a critical shortage of nurses. The scholarship covers tuition, eligible fees, and other reasonable costs and includes a monthly stipend.

Preference is given to applicants with the greatest financial need. Details can be found on the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program page.​Bureau of Health Workforce+3Bureau of Health Workforce+3Bureau of Health Workforce+3National Health Service Corps+3Bureau of Health Workforce+3National Health Service Corps+3

2. State and Regional Scholarships

Advanced Practice Healthcare Scholarship Program (APHSP) – CaliforniaFor California residents, the APHSP offers scholarships to students pursuing advanced practice healthcare degrees, including nurse practitioners. Recipients commit to providing direct patient care in a qualified facility in California. The application cycle typically opens in August. More information is available on the APHSP page. ​Bureau of Health Workforce+2HCAI+2Bureau of Health Workforce+2

3. Professional Association Scholarships

American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Scholarships

The AANP offers scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to its members who are enrolled in accredited graduate programs pursuing an advanced degree as a nurse practitioner. Applicants must have completed at least one semester and be scheduled to complete their program between August 2025 and July 2026. Visit the AANP Scholarships page for application details. ​AANP

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Scholarships

​AACN provides various scholarships for nursing students through partnerships with organizations like Uniform Advantage. These scholarships are awarded to students enrolled in master's and doctoral programs and are based on academic performance and financial need. Information on available scholarships can be found on the AACN Scholarships page. ​

4. Additional Scholarship Resources

NursingCE Central – California RN Scholarships

NursingCE Central offers a comprehensive list of scholarships for California RNs pursuing graduate nursing degrees. These scholarships cater to various specializations and can significantly offset tuition costs. Explore the list on the NursingCE Central Scholarships page. ​Nursing CE Central

Scholarships.com – Nursing/Nurse Practitioner Scholarships

Scholarships.com provides a directory of scholarships specifically for nursing and nurse practitioner students. The database includes scholarships with varying eligibility criteria and award amounts. Visit the Nursing/Nurse Practitioner Scholarships page for more information. ​Scholarships.com

5. Tips for Securing Scholarships

• Start Early: Begin researching and applying for scholarships well before application deadlines.​
  
  
  
• Stay Organized: Keep track of scholarship requirements, deadlines, and application materials.​ Use a spreadsheet to help you keep track of everything.
  
  
  
• Tailor Applications: Customize your personal statements and essays to align with each scholarship's mission and criteria.​
  
  
  
• Seek Recommendations: Obtain strong letters of recommendation from mentors, professors, or supervisors who can attest to your qualifications and commitment.​  If you're applying for scholarships and also preparing for clinicals, our NP student resources can help guide you through both.
  
  
  
• Highlight Commitment to Service: Emphasize your dedication to serving underserved communities, especially for scholarships with service obligations.​National Health Service Corps
  
  

Investing time in researching and applying for scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of advanced nursing education. Utilize the resources and programs outlined above to support your journey toward becoming an NP or APRN.

Final Words

Paying for NP or APRN school isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. With so many scholarships, grants, and repayment options out there, taking the time to apply can really pay off. Stay organized, don’t wait until the last minute, and go after every opportunity you can. The effort you put in now can make a big difference for your future and for the patients you’ll care for down the road.

Need a preceptor to complete your journey? Many times you can use your scholarship funds to help pay for our services. We’re here to help! Find your perfect match today.

About the Author

Lynn McComas is the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. With over two decades in primary care, Lynn has served as a coach, advisor, mentor, and preceptor for countless healthcare professionals, including NPs, nurses, and medical assistants. She co-founded a successful skills and procedures business and speaks nationwide on NP-related issues.

Lynn is also a regular contributor on LinkedIn, KevinMD, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram @preceptorlink, X @LynnMcComas, and her blog, where she addresses the growing NP and PA professions and the urgent need for preceptor sites. Her unique perspective, shaped by her business, clinical, and educational experiences, positions her as a key voice in tackling preceptor shortages. Lynn is committed to driving change—through a paradigm shift in NP education, reducing barriers, offering preceptor incentives, and advocating for reforms within the profession.