Women Nursing Scholarships

Where to Find Women Nursing Scholarships
Female nursing students who need additional financial assistance for their college education can apply for women nursing scholarships to help pay for education-related expenses.  These scholarships are designated solely for female students who are enrolled in accredited nursing programs. Eligibility requirements may include special areas of study within the nursing profession.

The following programs below are examples of nursing scholarships for women.

State Programs for Female Nursing Students

Most government scholarship programs are open to both genders.  However, there are other sources that provide state-wide assistance to female nursing students.  These include associations, nonprofit organizations, and foundations.  Following are examples of organizations that offer scholarships to female nursing students who live in a particular state.

P.E.O. Foundation – California State Chapter

This Foundation offers scholarships to women who are residents of California and had previously started their education but had to defer completion. Undergraduate and graduate nursing students who meet all eligibility requirements can apply for a Beverly Dye Anderson Scholarship. Scholarships are competitive and are awarded based on academic scores, work and community service record, and documented financial need. Typical award amounts range from $200 to $4,000.  Applications are usually due to the Foundation by February annually.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Chapter at 1887 Rim Rock Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 or by calling (949) 376-1586.

Lily E. Drake Scholarship Trust

Female registered nurses who live in Oregon and are interested in advanced education may be eligible for scholarships from the Trust.  Only single women can apply for this opportunity. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, work history, and financial need. Award amounts vary.  Applications are accepted at any time.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Trust, c/o KeyBank N.A., 4900 Tiedeman Road, Brooklyn, OH 44144.  Completed applications are to be mailed to the Trust, c/o Key Trust Client Services, 127 Public Square, Cleveland, Ohio 44114.

University and College Nursing Scholarships for Women

Although most scholarships offered through educational institutions like nursing schools are available to both men and women, female nursing students can still inquiry about possible scholarships designated for women. Each scholarship will have specific eligibility and submission guidelines that must be met for students to be considered. Information about available scholarships is available at the nursing department and financial aid office. Following is an example of an educational institution that offers nursing scholarships for women.

University of Hartford (Connecticut)

Female nursing students enrolled in the College of Education, Nursing and Health Professions are eligible to apply for the Women’s Education and Leadership Fund Scholarship at the University. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and demonstrated leadership qualities. Award amounts vary.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the financial aid office, the College, or the Women’s Education and Leadership Fund whose phone number is (860) 768-4100.

Employer-Sponsored Nursing Scholarships for Women

Employers who offer nursing scholarships to employees and nursing students may be a source of funding for women seeking financial assistance for their education. Nursing students who receive scholarships are typically required to commit to work for the employer upon graduation. Female nursing students can learn about employer-sponsored nursing scholarships by contacting local healthcare employers such as hospitals and other healthcare organizations such as hospices.

Community-Based Nursing Scholarships for Women

Women enrolled in nursing programs may be eligible for scholarships that are available through local organizations.  Scholarships may be offered by healthcare organizations or foundations among other groups.  Following are examples of foundations that provide nursing school scholarships for women.

Blanch L. Dawson Nursing Scholarship Fund

Female nursing students who are residents of Boone County, Illinois may be eligible for scholarships from the Fund.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and financial need.  Award amounts vary.  Deadline for submission is usually by the end of April each year. For applications, students can contact the Fund, c/o Alpine Bank, 6838 East State Street, Rockford, IL, 61108 or by calling (815) 547-5200.

Ralph B. Post Trust

Women enrolled in nursing school and live in the Village of Ballston Spa in New York may apply for Trust scholarships.  Scholarships are awarded based on merit and financial need.  There is no standard award amount. Applications are accepted at any time. Nursing students interested in this opportunity can contact the Trust, c/o Alliance Bank, N.A., 160 Main Street, Oneida, NY 13421.  Completed applications must be submitted to the Trust, c/o Post Memorial Scholarship Fund, Alliance Bank, 241 Main Street, Suite 200, Buffalo, NY 14203.  For general questions, students can call (716) 566-3032.

Jewish Foundation for Education of Women

The Foundation restricts scholarships to women.  Undergraduate and graduate nursing students who are residents of one of the lower eight counties in New York and are enrolled in a nursing school in the state can apply for financial assistance if they meet all eligibility requirements.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and documented financial need. Typical award amounts are $5,000 but can vary.  Applications are usually due in the summer.  Students can contact the Foundation at 135 East 64 Street, New York, NY 10065 or by calling (212) 288-3931.

Nursing  Scholarships for Women Over 40

The AARP (Association of American Retired Persons) is  a non-profit organiztion committed to improving the way people over 50 years old are viewed and how they live. The AARP Women’s Scholarship Program is aimed to help fund woman over 40, who do not have sufficient monetary support, to acquire new skills and education. If you are a woman applying to nursing school and are over 40 years old, then this women’s scholarship program was meant for you – assuming you have limited financial resources. You could use it if admitted to any accredited nursing college or university.

Students have multiple opportunities to secure women nursing scholarships. Research each source to determine eligibility fit and apply to as many as possible.  Nursing scholarships are critical in helping to pay for your nursing education.