The HRSA Nursing Scholarship Program is one of the most prestigious and impactful scholarships available to nursing students in the United States. It’s designed to alleviate the shortage of qualified nurses in underserved areas by offering full tuition coverage, stipends, and other educational benefits in exchange for a service commitment at a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) or an eligible health care facility.
If you are pursuing a nursing degree and are passionate about serving communities in need, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know for the 2026 application cycle, including eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and tips for success.
What is the HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship Program?
The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program, administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), is a federal program that helps nursing students finance their education while supporting the nation’s critical healthcare needs.
Recipients of the scholarship receive support for tuition, fees, books, uniforms, and other educational costs, along with a monthly living stipend. In return, scholarship recipients commit to working in a health facility located in a nursing shortage area after graduation. This ensures that underserved communities gain access to quality nursing care.
The 2026 application cycle deadline is April 24, 2026, 7:30 p.m. ET. Applicants must submit all required documents before this deadline to be considered.
Who is Eligible for the HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship?
The scholarship has specific eligibility requirements to ensure the funds go to students who are ready and able to fulfill the service commitment.
Basic Eligibility Requirements:
- U.S. Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen (born or naturalized), a U.S. national, or a lawful permanent resident.
- Enrollment in an Accredited Nursing Program: You must be enrolled or accepted into a full-time nursing program (RN, BSN, MSN, or graduate-level program).
- Start Date: Classes must begin no later than September 30, 2026.
- Financial Standing: You must not have delinquent federal debts or judgment liens.
- Service Commitments: You cannot have an existing service obligation under another federal program.
- Academic Performance: Maintain good academic standing in your nursing program.
Additional Considerations:
- Preference is given to applicants with financial need.
- Programs must be accredited by recognized bodies such as CCNE or ACEN.
- Disadvantaged backgrounds may receive additional priority during the selection process.
Benefits of the HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship
The program is considered highly generous and covers many aspects of your nursing education. Benefits include:
Tuition and Required Fees: Full coverage of tuition and fees up to the amount billed by your school.
Living Stipend: A monthly stipend helps cover basic living expenses during your study period.
Other Educational Costs: Books, clinical supplies, uniforms, and other reasonable educational expenses are reimbursed.
Keep in mind that all scholarship benefits are taxable, so planning for tax obligations is essential.
Service Obligation
The scholarship comes with a mandatory service commitment after graduation:
- Minimum Service: 2 years of full-time work at an eligible health care facility in an HPSA.
- Extended Service: Each additional year of scholarship support adds an extra year of service.
- Eligible Facilities: Public hospitals, community health centers, outpatient clinics, rural health facilities, and local/state health departments.
- Start of Service: Service must begin within six months of graduation.
Failing to complete the service obligation will result in repayment of the scholarship, including interest, so careful consideration is required before applying.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship application involves several steps:
- Review the Application Guidance: Read the Application and Program Guidance (APG) to understand requirements.
- Create a My BHW Account: Access the application portal through My BHW.
- Prepare Required Documents: These include:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
- Academic transcripts
- Enrollment verification in an accredited program
- Letters of recommendation
- Financial need documentation
- Complete the Online Application: Fill out all fields accurately.
- Submit Before Deadline: The 2026 application must be submitted by April 24, 2026, 7:30 p.m. ET. Late applications are not accepted.
Tip: Ensure all documents are complete and formatted according to HRSA guidelines. Missing items can disqualify your application.
Important Dates for 2026
- Application Opens: March 2026 (Exact date varies by HRSA announcement)
- Deadline: April 24, 2026, 7:30 p.m. ET
- Award Notification: On or before September 30, 2026
- Service Start: Within six months after graduation
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Collect transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of enrollment well before the deadline.
- Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Explain your motivation to serve in underserved areas and how you plan to contribute to healthcare access.
- Verify Facility Eligibility: Use HRSA’s tools to ensure your preferred service site qualifies as a shortage facility.
- Maintain Academic Excellence: Good academic standing is crucial to continue receiving scholarship benefits.
- Plan for Taxes: Understand the tax implications of your scholarship stipend and educational funds.
- Use Resources: Consult your school’s financial aid office for help and additional scholarship opportunities.
- Track All Deadlines: Keep a spreadsheet with due dates for each required document.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Covers tuition and fees fully
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Opportunity to serve in underserved areas
- Enhances resume and professional credibility
- Supports education while reducing debt
Cons:
- Service obligation is mandatory and binding
- Scholarship funds are taxable
- Limited flexibility in post-graduation employment until service is completed
- Service locations may be remote or less desirable
- Must maintain high academic performance to continue eligibility
Final Thoughts
The HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship Program 2026 is a remarkable opportunity for students committed to nursing and serving underserved communities. With full tuition coverage, stipends, and educational support, it can significantly reduce financial stress while shaping the next generation of dedicated nurses.
While the program does have a service obligation and taxable stipend, the benefits — professional experience, debt relief, and making a real difference in healthcare — often outweigh the challenges.
Start preparing early, gather all necessary documents, and submit a strong application by April 24, 2026 to maximize your chances.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I apply if I am part-time?
A: No, the scholarship requires enrollment in a full-time program. Part-time students are not eligible.
Q2: Are international nursing programs eligible?
A: Only programs accredited and based in the United States qualify.
Q3: Can I use the scholarship for RN-to-BSN programs?
A: Yes, as long as the program is accredited and you meet the other eligibility criteria.
Q4: What happens if I don’t complete my service obligation?
A: You must repay all scholarship funds with interest. Defaults can impact your credit and future federal aid eligibility.
Q5: How many years of service do I owe if I receive multiple years of funding?
A: Each year of funding adds one year of service to your commitment. For example, 2 years of funding = 4 years of service obligation.
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