Pursuing a nursing career is an exciting and rewarding journey, but the cost of nursing school can create financial challenges for students at every stage of their education. Whether you're working toward your associate degree, BSN, MSN, DNP, or another advanced nursing credential, finding financial assistance can make a meaningful difference.
Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships available to aspiring and practicing nurses. From general nursing education awards to opportunities offered by professional nursing organizations, these programs can help reduce tuition expenses and support your professional development.
If you're looking for ways to make nursing education more affordable, here are 10 nursing scholarships with upcoming 2026 and 2027 application deadlines worth exploring.
1. DiversityNursing.com $5,000 Education Award
DiversityNursing.com is proud to offer its annual $5,000 Education Award, supporting nursing students and working nursing professionals across the United States.
Unlike many traditional scholarships, this award does not require an essay. It is open to eligible students enrolled full-time or part-time in an accredited nursing program leading to a professional registered nursing credential, including associate, bachelor's, graduate, and diploma programs.
Currently employed nursing professionals may also qualify, including Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Nurse Practitioners (NPs), and Nurse Leaders or Administrators working full-time, part-time, or per diem at U.S.-based organizations.
Award Amount: $5,000
Application Deadline: May 7, 2027.
Register at DiversityNursing.com Education Award.
2. Foundation of the National Student Nurses' Association (FNSNA) Scholarship
The Foundation of the National Student Nurses' Association (FNSNA) provides financial assistance to undergraduate nursing students pursuing their education and preparing for professional careers in healthcare.
The foundation has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships since its establishment. Its annual scholarship program supports nursing students pursuing associate, bachelor's, and eligible graduate-level education.
Scholarships are available to students with demonstrated financial need, academic achievement, and an interest in contributing to the nursing profession.
Award Amount: Awards of up to $10,000.
Application Deadline: January 11, 2027.
Explore eligibility requirements and apply at FNSNA Scholarships.
3. Bonnie Fang Foundation Nursing Scholarship
The Bonnie Fang Foundation offers nursing scholarships to students who demonstrate academic achievement, compassion, integrity, leadership, financial need, and a commitment to serving their communities.
The foundation honors Bonnie Fang, a nurse who believed in supporting others and creating opportunities for future generations of healthcare professionals.
For the 2027 scholarship cycle, the foundation may award one $5,000 California Nursing Scholarship and one $5,000 Nevada Nursing Scholarship.
Award Amount: Up to $5,000 per recipient.
Application Deadline: December 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Learn more and apply at Bonnie Fang Foundation Nursing Scholarship.
4. Nephrology Nursing Foundation ELEVATE Scholarships
The Nephrology Nursing Foundation, supported by the American Nephrology Nurses Association (ANNA), offers its ELEVATE education and certification scholarship program.
The 2027 program includes 17 scholarships designed to support nurses interested in advancing their education or obtaining professional certification in nephrology nursing.
Seven education scholarships are available for nurses pursuing their next nursing degree, while 10 certification scholarships support eligible nurses preparing for nephrology nursing certification exams.
Award Amount:
- Education scholarships: $1,500 each.
- Certification scholarships: $1,450 each.
Application Deadline: December 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Learn more at American Nephrology Nurses Association Scholarships.
5. Scrubin Uniforms-AACN Scholarship
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) partners with Scrubin Uniforms to provide scholarship opportunities for nursing students.
This scholarship supports students pursuing undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees at eligible AACN member institutions with a formal affiliation agreement with Scrubin Uniforms.
It is an opportunity for nursing students who are committed to advancing their education and preparing for careers in healthcare.
Award Amount: See the current scholarship application for award details.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2026.
Learn more at AACN Foundation Scholarships.
6. AACN Professional Nursing Scholarship
The AACN Professional Nursing Scholarship provides financial support for graduate nursing students preparing to become Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs).
This opportunity is particularly valuable for nurses continuing their education and pursuing advanced clinical roles that help meet the growing demand for specialized healthcare services.
Award Amount: Varies. Review the current application for details.
Application Deadline: December 15, 2026.
Explore eligibility and application information at AACN Foundation Scholarships.
7. Oncology Nursing Foundation Scholarships
Nurses interested in specializing in oncology may benefit from the educational funding opportunities offered by the Oncology Nursing Foundation.
The foundation provides scholarships for Registered Nurses pursuing additional education and advanced degrees in oncology nursing.
Opportunities are available for nurses working toward bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, helping support professional growth and the advancement of cancer care.
Award Amount: Varies by degree level and scholarship opportunity.
Application Deadline: February 1, 2027.
Learn more at Oncology Nursing Foundation Scholarships.
8. Platinum Educational Group Nursing Scholarship
Platinum Educational Group offers scholarship opportunities to support students pursuing careers in nursing, emergency medical services (EMS), and allied health.
The organization's scholarship program provides financial assistance to students currently enrolled in eligible healthcare education programs across the country. It is a great opportunity for nursing students looking for additional financial support while working toward their educational and career goals.
Award Amount: Three scholarships of $1,500 each are available across the eligible healthcare disciplines.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2026.
Learn more and apply at Platinum Educational Group Scholarships.
9. Nurses Educational Funds (NEF) Graduate Nursing Scholarships
Nurses Educational Funds (NEF) has supported graduate nursing education for more than a century, awarding scholarships to nurses pursuing advanced degrees and professional development.
The organization offers multiple scholarship opportunities for Registered Nurses pursuing master's and doctoral degrees in nursing. These scholarships help support future nurse leaders, educators, researchers, and advanced practice professionals.
Award Amount: Varies depending on the individual scholarship.
Application Deadline: February 1, 2027.
Learn more and apply at Nurses Educational Funds (NEF).
10. Pocket Nurse Scholarship Fund
The Pocket Nurse Scholarship Fund, established through The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports students pursuing education in nursing, allied health, and nursing faculty programs.
This scholarship is an excellent opportunity for students interested in advancing their education while preparing for careers that contribute to the healthcare workforce.
Award Amount: Average awards of $5,000 for graduate students, with undergraduate awards of up to $10,000 over four years.
Application Period: January 6 – February 17, 2027.
Learn more at Pocket Nurse Scholarship Fund.
Investing in Your Future as a Nurse
A nursing education is an investment in yourself, your future, and the communities you will serve. Financial assistance through scholarships can help make that investment more manageable while allowing you to focus on your education and professional goals.
Whether you're just beginning nursing school or returning to the classroom to advance your career, take the time to explore the opportunities available to you.
And don't forget to check out the DiversityNursing.com $5,000 Education Award! With no essay required and opportunities for both nursing students and working nursing professionals, it's an excellent opportunity to explore as you plan your next steps.
Your future in nursing is worth investing in!
