Hrsa Nursing Scholarship
The US government recognizes the need to increase the number of nurses produced each year, so the HRSA nursing
scholarship has been made available. This program, offered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
aims to address the projected shortage of nurses. Increasing the number of scholarships for nurses is one of the
strategies implemented to promote the healthcare system.
Nursing schools are also creating valuable partnerships with government and concerned private organizations to help
boost the number of enrollees. It is hoped that the programs will help fill the gap between the number of nurses
and patients.
What is the HRSA Nursing Scholarship?
The HRSA Nursing Scholarship is the leading scholarship
program for prospective nurses in the United States. Every year the program graduates no less than 500 nurses.
Graduates will then work for two years at a health facility or health center where there is a serious shortage of
nurses. The Health Resources and Services Administration pay for the student’s tuition and other expenses such as
books, laboratory fees and clinical supplies. A monthly stipend is also given to HRSA scholars. In exchange, the
student agrees to work for the HRSA for a minimum of two years within the United States.
Graduates of HRSA Nursing Scholarship can render their NSP service at the Federated States of Micronesia, the
Republic of the Marshall Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Territory of Guam, the Republic of Palau, the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, the Territory of American Samoa or the Commonwealth of the
Northern Marianas, where the critical shortage of nurses is highly evident.
What are the benefits of this scholarship program?
As mentioned earlier, the HRSA Nursing Scholarship offers several benefits to its scholars.
1. Scholarship
NSP covers all school fees including tuition, laboratory fees and clinical supplies.
2. Stipend
Unlike other nursing grants and scholarships, the
NSP offers monthly stipend to all its scholars amounting to at least $1,326. The generous amount of money can help
students in their daily expenses.
3. Service
The program provides an opportunity for nurses to work for underserved communities. Graduates are also
given the chance to experience the diverse healthcare system. They are also well compensated, with the competitive
salary base plus a myriad of benefits offered by the employing health facility.
Who is eligible for this Scholarship Program?
Students currently enrolled full-time in an affiliated, undergraduate nursing program are eligible for this
financial aid. Students with the most financial need are given most priority. Below are the qualifications the
student must possess to qualify for this scholarship program.
1. Currently enrolled and studying as a full time student in a registered nurse program such as a diploma
course, an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree or a graduate program. Check with your college or university if
they are accredited in the HRSA Nursing Scholarship program.
2. US citizens (either by birth or naturalization) or citizenship acquired through the immigration
process.
3. Must not have outstanding Federal judgment liens.
4. Must be free of Federal debt.
Interested applicants are required to present documents that will prove their qualification for this program.
The financial status of applicants is also considered by the selection board.
How are scholars chosen?
In the past academic year, 458 applicants qualified for the HRSA Nursing Scholarship program. Students who have
the most financial need are usually prioritized. A selection committee evaluates all applications based on the set
qualifications. Generally, successful applicants demonstrate zero Expected Family Contribution in their Student Aid
Report in the Free Application for Federal Student Assistance (FAFSA). The number of scholarships awarded in an
academic year depends on the availability of funds. All applicants who pass the selection process are informed
through email. Usually, acceptance letters are sent out during the first week of July. Applicants who do not
qualify for this program can expect to receive a letter before the end of September.
When should applications be submitted?
The HRSA Nursing Scholarship accepts applications annually, starting March until May. Make sure that you submit
your application and supporting documents before the given deadline. You also have to read the Application &
Program Guidance before sending your application. Incomplete or illegible application packages will forfeit the
chance for a scholarship. Inaccurate information can adversely affect the applicant’s ranking.
Whether you apply online or through email, it is highly recommended that you double check the contents of the
application before finally sending it. Give yourself ample time to complete all required documents.
How to apply
Applying for the HRSA Nursing Scholarship follows a three-step procedure:
1. Complete the Online NSP application form.
2. Submit the all Supporting Documents and Supplemental Forms as listed in the Application & Program
Guidance.
3. Submit a duly notarized copy of the Agreement for Power-of-Attorney.
Make sure that you send only one application package. Do not send duplicate copies through mail and fax as this
can only delay the processing of your application and result in possible forfeiture. After the online application
is completed, you will receive a receipt of submission.
The HRSA Nursing Scholarship application takes four months to be completed. During the wait period, applicants
are advised to check their email daily for updates. Awardees are notified through email.
|