Nursing remains one of the most rewarding and in-demand careers in the healthcare field. However, the cost of nursing school — including tuition, clinical fees, and licensing exams — can create financial barriers for many students. Fortunately, scholarships for nursing students can significantly ease this burden by covering tuition and related educational expenses.
For 2025, several national, regional, and institutional scholarships are available for aspiring nurses. This guide highlights the Top 12 Nurse Scholarships 2025, including their deadlines, eligibility requirements, and benefits, so you can plan ahead and fund your nursing education effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Many nursing scholarships are provided by hospitals, healthcare organizations, schools, and national associations.
- Some awards are targeted toward specific nursing specialties such as pediatrics, oncology, or cardiac care.
- Most nursing scholarships require proof of enrollment, recommendation letters, or a short essay.
- Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow by 6% by 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Scholarships help reduce financial stress and promote diversity and accessibility in healthcare education.
1. Albert & Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation Scholarship
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: October 30, 2025
This scholarship is designed for students enrolled in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program at San Jacinto College. Applicants must have at least a 2.0 GPA and be registered for the Fall semester.
Eligibility:
- Enrolled in San Jacinto College ADN program
- Minimum GPA of 2.0
How to Apply:
Visit the San Jacinto College Foundation website and submit your application before the deadline with academic transcripts.
2. Golden Door Scholars
Amount: Full Tuition
Deadline: October 31, 2025
The Golden Door Scholarship (GDS) supports underrepresented students pursuing degrees in career-focused majors. Nursing applicants with strong academic and leadership potential are highly encouraged to apply.
Eligibility:
- U.S. residents or DACA recipients
- High school seniors or college students
How to Apply:
Apply online through goldendoorscholars.org by submitting essays and recommendation letters.
3. American Indian Medical Scholarship
Amount: Up to $12,000
Deadline: November 1, 2025
This scholarship helps Native American, Alaskan Native, or Hawaiian Native students pursuing nursing degrees. It aims to improve healthcare services within indigenous communities.
Eligibility:
- Proof of Native American descent
- Commitment to serving Native populations
How to Apply:
Complete the online application form via the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) website.
4. Dr. Lorraine G. Spranzo Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $500
Deadline: November 5, 2025
Established in memory of Dr. Lorraine Spranzo, this scholarship supports nursing students demonstrating academic excellence and compassion in patient care.
Eligibility:
- Nursing student in an accredited program
- Demonstrated academic excellence
How to Apply:
Applications are accepted through the New Britain General Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Association website.
5. Bonnie Fang Nursing Scholarship
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: November 30, 2025
The Bonnie Fang Foundation awards two annual scholarships to full-time nursing students in California and Nevada.
Eligibility:
- Enrolled in an accredited nursing program
- Reside in California or Nevada
How to Apply:
Submit your application on the Bonnie Fang Foundation website along with transcripts and recommendation letters.
6. Susan Lawrence Soldier For Life Scholarship
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: November 30, 2025
This scholarship, created by retired U.S. Army General Susan Lawrence, supports veterans and active-duty military personnel pursuing degrees in nursing or healthcare.
Eligibility:
- Active-duty military or veteran status
- Enrolled in an accredited nursing program
How to Apply:
Visit the AFCEA Educational Foundation website to apply.
7. Oracle Women in Leadership Scholarship
Amount: $1,500
Deadline: November 30, 2025
This award supports female military students pursuing STEM or healthcare degrees.
Eligibility:
- Female active-duty or veteran student
- Enrolled in STEM or healthcare degree
How to Apply:
Apply via the Oracle Women in Leadership program page.
8. Nurse Practitioner Healthcare Foundation (NPHF) Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: December 5, 2025
The NPHF Scholarship supports graduate nursing students who have made significant community contributions or focus on research in patient care or gastroenterology.
Eligibility:
- Graduate nursing student (MSN, DNP, or PhD)
- Involvement in community healthcare
How to Apply:
Apply through the NPHF website, including your community service essay.
9. WISE (Women in STEM Excel) Scholarship
Amount: $3,500
Deadline: December 13, 2025
Created by Dr. Alexander Sobel, this scholarship encourages women pursuing degrees in STEM or healthcare fields.
Eligibility:
- Female student in Washington State
- Enrolled in STEM or healthcare program
How to Apply:
Submit your online application through wise-scholarships.org.
10. Mahoney Family Foundation Scholarship
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: December 15, 2025
The Mahoney Family Foundation provides scholarships to nurses pursuing advanced education or continuing education units (CEUs).
Eligibility:
- Licensed nurse or educator
- Pursuing an advanced degree or CEUs
How to Apply:
Applications are available on the Mahoney Family Foundation website.
11. DAR Caroline E. Holt Nursing Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: January 31, 2026
This one-time award is offered to students who demonstrate financial need and are enrolled in accredited nursing programs.
Eligibility:
- U.S. citizen enrolled in nursing school
- Demonstrated financial need
How to Apply:
Apply through the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) portal.
12. Madeline Pickett Cogswell Nursing Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: January 31, 2026
Administered by DAR, this scholarship awards students who are members or descendants of DAR members and enrolled in accredited nursing schools.
Eligibility:
- Must be a member or descendant of DAR
- Enrolled in accredited nursing school
How to Apply:
Submit the application and supporting documents on the DAR Scholarships website.
How to Apply for Nursing Scholarships?
- Start Early: Begin researching scholarships at least six months before deadlines.
- Prepare Key Documents: Have transcripts, recommendation letters, and your FAFSA ready.
- Write a Strong Essay: Highlight your motivation, experience, and commitment to nursing.
- Apply Widely: Combine local, school-specific, and national scholarships to increase your chances.
Why Nursing Scholarships Matter?
Nursing scholarships don’t just relieve financial stress; they empower future healthcare professionals to focus on education, build clinical skills, and serve their communities. These opportunities also help close the workforce gap, making healthcare more diverse and accessible for everyone.
Conclusion
The Top 12 Nurse Scholarships for 2025 provide incredible financial support for aspiring and current nursing students. Whether you’re starting your nursing journey or advancing your education, these scholarships offer a chance to make your dreams affordable and achievable.
Start preparing your applications today—each scholarship could be the key to your success in the nursing field.
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