Top 33 Nursing Scholarships for MSN Students (+ How to Apply)

Key Takeaways

• MSN scholarships come from a wide range of sources, including federal programs, professional organizations, private foundations, and corporate sponsors.
• Scholarships and grants provide upfront funding that doesn’t require repayment, while loan repayment programs cover existing debt in exchange for a service commitment.
• Membership in a professional nursing organization can provide exclusive scholarship opportunities that aren’t available to the general public.
• Some federal programs require recipients to work in underserved or high-need areas after graduation in exchange for funding.
• Many healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement, making your HR department one of the first places to check for funding.
• Applying to multiple scholarships, tailoring each application, and highlighting leadership experience and career goals can significantly improve your chances of receiving an award.

Pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is one of the most impactful steps you can take to advance your career, but it typically comes with a significant financial commitment. Tuition, fees, and other expenses can add up quickly, making funding one of the biggest concerns for nurses who are considering graduate education.

The good news is that there are more financial resources available than many nurses realize. From federal scholarships and professional organization awards to private foundation grants and employer tuition reimbursement, a wide range of funding opportunities exist to help offset the cost of an MSN degree.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or are ready to apply, this guide breaks down the key differences between scholarships, grants, and loan repayment programs, highlights more than 30 funding opportunities, and offers practical tips to help you put together a strong application.

What’s the Difference Between Nursing Scholarships, Grants, and Loan Repayment Programs?

The main differences between nursing scholarships, grants, and loan repayment programs lie in their repayment requirements and eligibility criteria.

• Scholarships are awarded before you incur costs, providing upfront funding with no repayment required. They are typically based on merit, financial need, or both, and are often competitive, requiring a strong GPA, essays, or other qualifications.
• Grants are similar to scholarships in that they do not require repayment. They are commonly need-based, though some come with a service commitment, such as agreeing to work in an underserved area. Grants can come from federal, state, or institutional sources. One important nuance: some grants carry a service obligation, meaning if you don’t fulfill it, the grant converts into a loan you must repay, so it’s important to read the fine print.
• Loan repayment programs come into play after you’ve already taken on debt. Rather than providing upfront funding, these programs pay off some or all of your existing student loans in exchange for a service commitment, such as working in a shortage area, rural setting, or specific specialty for a set number of years. One well-known example is the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program, which offers nurses up to 85% of their outstanding student loan balance in exchange for two years of service at an eligible, high-need healthcare facility.

What Are the Top MSN Graduate Nursing Scholarships?

Federal and Government-Backed Scholarships

1. HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship Program

The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program helps nursing students pay for school by covering tuition, fees, and other educational costs, as well as providing a monthly stipend. In exchange, recipients commit to working at an eligible healthcare facility with a critical nursing shortage after graduation.

Award amount: No set award amount; funding covers tuition, eligible fees, and reasonable costs such as books, clinical supplies, instruments, and uniforms, plus a monthly stipend.

Eligibility requirements:

• Are a U.S. citizen (born or naturalized), a national, or a lawful permanent resident
• Are an accepted or enrolled student in a nursing degree program at a United States accredited school of nursing
• Begin classes no later than September 30
• Don’t have any federal judgment liens
• Don’t have an existing service commitment
• Aren’t overdue on a federal debt

2. Indian Health Service (IHS) Scholarship Program

IHS offers three scholarships for American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing careers in health professions:

• Preparatory Scholarship: For undergraduate students taking preparatory or prerequisite courses leading to an eligible health professions degree program.
• Pre-Graduate Scholarship: For undergraduate students enrolled in courses leading to a bachelor’s degree in pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, pre-nursing, or other fields needed by Indian health programs.
• Health Professions Scholarship: For undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in an eligible health professions degree program. Recipients must fulfill a service commitment in full-time clinical practice upon completing their training.

All three scholarships are available to members or descendants of federally recognized, state-recognized, or terminated Tribes.

Award amount: There is no set award amount. The scholarship covers tuition and required fees, a monthly stipend of no less than $1,500, an annual lump sum for books and other educational expenses, and summer school funding. Award amounts vary depending on scholarship type and enrollment status.

Eligibility requirements:

• Are a U.S. citizen (born or naturalized) or U.S. national
• Are a member or descendant of a federally recognized, state-recognized, or terminated American Indian Tribe or Alaska Native village (Preparatory and Pre-Graduate Scholarships), or a member of a federally recognized Tribe only (Health Professions Scholarship)
• Are accepted or enrolled in an accredited health professions degree program in the United States
• Have a minimum 2.0 GPA
• Intend to serve Indian people as a health professional in your chosen discipline
• Males 18 or older must be registered for Selective Service

Note: Health professions scholarship recipients must sign a contract agreeing to a minimum two-year service commitment at an Indian health facility upon completion of training.

Professional Nursing Organization Scholarships

3. NurseThink® – AACN Scholarship

The NurseThink^® – AACN Scholarship supports master’s and doctoral nursing students who aspire to become nurse faculty. Applicants must submit an online application, demographic information, and a short essay outlining their plans to teach after graduation.

Award amount: $5,000, awarded twice per year

Eligibility requirements: Must be currently enrolled in a master’s or doctoral nursing program at an AACN member institution and be a member of the Graduate Nursing Student Academy (GNSA).

4. Association of California Nurse Leaders (ACNL) Scholarship

The ACNL Scholarship supports registered nurses in California who are expanding their leadership skills through advanced study, pursuing higher degrees, or advancing nursing knowledge through research.

Award amount: Not specified

Eligibility requirements: Must be an ACNL member, hold an active RN license, and be enrolled at least half-time in an accredited degree program (RN to BSN, MSN, MBA, MPH, DNSc, DNP, or PhD) with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Previous ACNL scholarship recipients are not eligible.

5. QGenda – AACN Scholarship

The QGenda – AACN Scholarship is offered in partnership with QGenda, a healthcare workforce management company, and is open to students in undergraduate and graduate nursing programs at AACN member schools. Applicants must submit a 500-word essay on how they want to make an impact as a nurse, or how a nurse has specifically impacted them, along with one academic or professional reference.

Award amount: $5,000, awarded three times per year to a different student each funding cycle

• July: Only students enrolled in entry-level baccalaureate programs may apply.
• February: Only students enrolled in accelerated baccalaureate or master’s programs may apply.
• October: Only students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs may apply.

Eligibility requirements: Must be currently enrolled in a nursing program at an AACN member school, be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and have a minimum 3.5 GPA.

6. Uniform Advantage/GNSA Scholarship

The Uniform Advantage/Graduate Nursing Student Academy Scholarship supports master’s and doctoral nursing students committed to making a positive impact on the nation’s health and healthcare.

Award amount: $2,500, awarded twice per year (fall and spring)

Eligibility requirements: Must be currently enrolled in a master’s or doctoral nursing program and be a member of the Graduate Nursing Student Academy.

7. Deborah E. Trautman Future Nurse Leader Scholarship

Funded by Liaison International and created in honor of AACN President and CEO Dr. Deborah Trautman, this scholarship recognizes graduate nursing students who aspire to leadership positions in academic nursing. In addition to financial support, recipients have the opportunity to attend an AACN student-focused conference and participate in a virtual leadership experience with Dr. Trautman.

Award amount: $5,000 ($3,500 for educational expenses paid directly to the student, plus up to $1,500 for conference travel expenses). Two awards are given per year.

Eligibility requirements: Must be currently enrolled in a master’s or doctoral nursing program at an AACN member school affiliated with NursingCAS, demonstrate high academic achievement and a commitment to academic nursing, and be a member of AACN’s Graduate Nursing Student Academy.

8. National League for Nursing (NLN) Cecelia Lou Vriheas Scholarship Award

The NLN Cecelia Lou Vriheas Scholarship Award supports first-generation graduate nursing students from historically marginalized or excluded communities in pursuing advanced education in nursing.

Award amount: $6,000, awarded to a single recipient annually

Eligibility requirements: Must be a nurse or nurse educator enrolled in an accredited graduate-level nursing program, be the first generation in their family to pursue higher education, and belong to a historically marginalized or excluded group, including but not limited to Black, Indigenous, Native American, Pacific Islander, immigrant populations, or those from rural areas.

9. NLN Edmund J. Y. Pajarillo Health Informatics and Innovation Scholarship

The Edmund J.Y. Pajarillo Scholarship supports graduate nursing students focused on informatics and innovation in data analysis and health information technology. Special consideration is given to nurses of color and members of other marginalized communities interested in transitioning from practice to full-time teaching.

Award amount: $6,000

Eligibility requirements: Must be enrolled in an accredited graduate-level nursing program and have completed at least one year of study. The application is open to the public, but preference is given to NLN members.

10. NLN Nursing Education Scholarship Award

The NLN Nursing Education Scholarship Award supports nurses pursuing advanced degrees to prepare for full-time positions as nurse educators. The NLN Foundation particularly encourages experienced and ethnically diverse nurses to apply.

Award amount: Up to $8,000, with multiple recipients selected annually

Eligibility requirements: Must be an NLN member, enrolled in an accredited master’s or doctoral nursing program, have completed at least one full year of study, and have a program or project near completion (e.g., IRB-approved, dissertation proposal defended, or capstone project approved).

11. NLN Steve Cerame Nurse Educator Scholarship

The NLN Steve Cerame Nurse Educator Scholarship honors the former chief financial officer of the National League for Nursing and his 26 years of service to the organization. The scholarship supports nurses pursuing advanced degrees to prepare for full-time careers as nurse educators.

Award amount: Up to $8,000

Eligibility requirements: Must be an NLN member, enrolled in an accredited master’s or doctoral nursing program, and have completed at least one full year of study with program or project completion deemed feasible (e.g., IRB approved, dissertation proposal defended, or capstone project approved).

12. American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Scholarships

AANP scholarships support nurse practitioner students pursuing advanced degrees, from master’s programs to DNP and PhD programs. Scholarship funds are applied directly to program tuition costs and are paid to the institution rather than the individual recipient.

Award amount: $2,500 to $5,000

Eligibility requirements: Must be an AANP member enrolled in an accredited graduate nursing program at a U.S.-based institution, have completed at least one semester of the current program, and be scheduled to complete an eligible NP program between certain specified dates. Eligible disciplines include a Master’s in Nursing (NP track), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing.

13. American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN) Scholarship

The Advancing Nurse Leadership in Post-Acute Care Scholarship, offered by the AAPACN Education Foundation, supports registered nurses working in post-acute care who are pursuing a BSN or higher degree. In addition to financial support, recipients receive a complimentary registration to the AAPACN Annual Conference.

Award amount: $5,000, paid directly to the nursing school

Eligibility requirements: Must be an RN currently working in post-acute care, be a U.S. resident, and be enrolled in or planning to enroll in an accredited nursing school. Prior winners of this scholarship or the Cheryl M. Thomas Scholarship are not eligible.

Diversity and Underrepresented Student Scholarships

14. Philippine Nurses Association of San Diego County (PNASD) Annual Scholarship

The PNASD Scholarship Program supports nursing students at all levels, from ADN to doctoral programs, who are pursuing and advancing their education. Scholarships are funded through philanthropic contributions from PNASD donors and sponsors.

Award amount: Not specified

Eligibility requirements: Must be a current active PNASD member for at least three months, a resident of San Diego County, California, currently accepted or enrolled in a CCNE or ACEN-accredited nursing program (ADN, BSN, MSN, or doctoral), and demonstrate active community and professional involvement.

15. San Diego National Association of Hispanic Nurses (SDNAHN) Local Scholarship

The San Diego National Association of Hispanic Nurses Scholarship supports the next generation of nurses in San Diego County who align with the organization’s mission to advance healthcare and education in the Hispanic community.

Award amount: Not specified.

Eligibility requirements: Must be a current SDNAHN member in good standing, enrolled or accepted into a VN, RN, BSN, graduate, or post-graduate nursing program in San Diego County (San Diego County residents in online or out-of-state programs are also eligible), have a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last year and a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5, and have participated in at least two SDNAHN events during the application period.

16. National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Scholarships

The National Black Nurses Association offers annual scholarships to student nurses at all levels, from LPN to doctoral programs, with the goal of supporting Black nursing students throughout their education. Scholarships are presented each year at the NBNA Annual Institute & Conference.

Award amount: Starting at $1,000; amounts vary by year and scholarship type

Eligibility requirements: Must be an NBNA member and a member of a local chapter (if one exists within 50 miles), currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program in good academic standing, and have at least one full year of school remaining.

17. National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) Scholarships

The National Association of Hispanic Nurses offers several scholarships each year to active members enrolled in accredited nursing programs, from LPN/LVN to graduate-level studies. Scholarship recipients are selected based on factors including financial need, academic merit, and demonstrated commitment to the Hispanic community. Awards vary in amount and type each year, depending on available funding.

Award amount: Varies by scholarship; awards range from $1,000 to $10,000

Eligibility requirements: Must be a NAHN member in good standing and currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program. Additional requirements vary by specific scholarship.

18. Asian American/Pacific Islander Nurses Association (AAPINA) Scholarship

The AAPINA Scholarship supports nursing education for AAPINA members pursuing undergraduate or graduate nursing degrees, with the goal of enhancing the contribution of its membership to the association’s core mission. Two scholarships are awarded, one for undergraduate students and one for graduate students.

Award amount: $500

Eligibility requirements: Must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate nursing program with a minimum 3.5 GPA. Graduate applicants must have two years of AAPINA membership. All applicants must submit a personal essay addressing leadership potential and commitment to serving AAPINA, along with two letters of recommendation.

Specialty and Career-Path Scholarships

19. Oncology Nursing Foundation (ONF) Master’s Scholarship

The Oncology Nursing Foundation Master’s Scholarship supports registered nurses committed to oncology nursing who are pursuing a master’s degree in a relevant field. Funds can be used for tuition, fees, books, supplies, lab fees, and equipment required for approved courses.

Award amount: $5,000, awarded once per recipient

Eligibility requirements: Must be a registered nurse currently enrolled in, accepted to, or have applied to an accredited master’s degree program, be in good academic standing, and demonstrate a commitment to oncology nursing.

20. Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN) Higher Education Scholarship

The AMSN Higher Education Scholarship supports medical-surgical nurses pursuing an advanced degree to further their professional development.

Award amounts: $3,000, with up to three scholarships awarded annually

Eligibility requirements: Must be an AMSN member for at least one year at the time of application. Recipients are not eligible to receive the scholarship again within two years of a previous award.

Private Foundation, Nonprofit, and Corporate Scholarships

21. Annual Prevounce Preventive Health Scholarship Program

The Prevounce Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing careers in medicine, nursing, or public health, with an emphasis on the future of preventive health. The scholarship is competitive and based on leadership, academics, and achievements. Funds are disbursed directly to the institution.

Award amount: $3,000

Eligibility requirements: Must be pursuing a career in medicine, nursing, or public health and be entering or already enrolled in an accredited U.S.-based graduate program.

22. Johnson & Johnson Nursing Scholarships

Johnson & Johnson maintains a comprehensive database of nursing scholarships and grants available to students at all levels, from associate’s to master’s degrees. The database is searchable by eligibility, location, and degree level, making it a valuable resource for nurses looking for financial support at any stage of their education

Award amount: Varies by scholarship

Eligibility requirements: Varies by scholarship; the database can be filtered by degree level, location, and eligibility to find the most relevant opportunities.

23. TYLENOL® Future Care Scholarship

The TYLENOL^® Future Care Scholarship has supported students pursuing careers in healthcare for over 30 years. The scholarship is open to graduate students in medical, nursing, and pharmacy programs who are actively seeking a degree to treat patients.

Award amount: 10 scholarships of $10,000 and 25 scholarships of $5,000 are awarded annually. This is a one-time, non-renewable award.

Eligibility requirements: Must be a resident of the U.S., Puerto Rico, or the District of Columbia; a current graduate student or college senior enrolling in graduate school the following academic year; enrolled in an accredited medical, nursing, or pharmacy graduate program; and have at least one year of school remaining.

24. March of Dimes Graduate Nursing Scholarships

Established in 1998 and supported by Pampers^®, the March of Dimes Nursing Scholarships recognize nursing students dedicated to improving maternal and infant health. Scholarships are available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, with the highest-scoring graduate recipient receiving the Dr. Margaret Comerford Freda Award.

Award amount: $10,000

Eligibility requirements: Undergraduate applicants must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate nursing program with a commitment to working in maternal or infant health after graduation. Graduate applicants must be registered nurses enrolled in an accredited master’s or doctoral nursing program and demonstrate a strong commitment to improving maternal and infant health.

25. Nursing Economic$ Foundation Scholarship

The Nursing Economic$ Foundation Scholarship supports registered nurses pursuing advanced degrees with a focus on nursing leadership, administration, management, and education.

Award amount: Up to four $5,000 scholarships awarded annually. Funds are paid jointly to recipients and their institutions to assist with tuition costs.

Eligibility requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen RN enrolled or accepted into an accredited master’s or doctoral nursing program with a career focus in nursing administration, management, leadership, or education. Prior recipients are not eligible to apply for the same degree program.

26. Nurse Education Funds (NEF) Scholarship

The Nurses Educational Funds Scholarship supports Registered Nurses pursuing advanced degrees in nursing, with the goal of developing nursing leaders and advancing the profession. NEF is one of the largest national private sources of funding for advanced nursing education, with over 1,480 scholarships awarded to date.

Award amount: Varies; scholarships are paid directly to recipients

Eligibility requirements: Must hold a current RN license, be a member of a national professional nursing association, and be enrolled in an accredited master’s or doctoral nursing program with at least 12 graded credits completed. A minimum GPA of 3.6 is required for all applicants.

27. Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Caroline E. Holt Nursing Scholarship

The DAR Caroline E. Holt Nursing Scholarship provides financial support to nursing students who demonstrate financial need and are enrolled in or accepted to an accredited nursing program.

Award amount: $2,500, with three scholarships awarded annually. This is a one-time award.

Eligibility requirements: Must demonstrate financial need and be accepted into or currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program.

28. American Red Cross Jane Delano Student Nurse Scholarship

Named in honor of Jane Delano, the principal organizer of the Red Cross Nursing Service, this scholarship promotes nursing as a career and encourages new nurses to get involved with the Red Cross. A limited number of scholarships are awarded each year.

Award amount: $3,000

Eligibility requirements: Must have served as a Red Cross volunteer or employee within the past five years, have completed at least one year of college or university, and be currently enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student in good academic standing at an accredited U.S. nursing program.

29. DiversityNursing.com Education Award

DiversityNursing.com’s annual Education Award provides financial support to nursing students and licensed nurses across all specialties and experience levels. The award is open to both new and returning applicants.

Award amount: $5,000

Eligibility requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen and either a nursing student enrolled full- or part-time in an accredited U.S. nursing program (associate, diploma, bachelor’s, or graduate level), or a licensed nurse working in the U.S., including RNs, LPN/LVNs, NPs, and nurse leaders and administrators.

30. San Diego Foundation Millie Vancio Professional Nursing Scholarship

The Millie Vancio Professional Nursing Scholarship was established to support working nurses in San Diego County who are balancing a full-time work schedule while pursuing an advanced nursing degree. Funds may be used for tuition, books, fees, room and board, and other educational expenses.

Award amount: $1,000, with an average of two awards given annually

Eligibility requirements: Must be a San Diego County resident, hold a diploma or Associate Degree in Nursing, be pursuing a BSN, MSN, or Master of Arts in a healthcare-related field at a San Diego-based institution, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and have work experience as a registered nurse. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

31. NurseRecruiter.com Nursing Scholarship

The NurseRecruiter.com Scholarship was founded to help address the nursing shortage by supporting students who want to further their education and make an impact in healthcare. The scholarship has provided nursing scholarships for over 20 years.

Award amount: Up to $10,000

Eligibility requirements: Must be enrolled in or admitted to a nursing degree program approved by a state board of nursing and accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) at a Title IV-eligible institution.

32. Kaiser Foundation School of Nursing (KFSN) Legacy Scholarship

The KFSN Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of the Kaiser Foundation School of Nursing by supporting current nursing students. Funded primarily through alumni donations, the program has awarded $131,000 in scholarships to date.

Award amount: A minimum of $10,000 is targeted annually, distributed among multiple recipients.

Eligibility requirements: Applicants are encouraged to download the application for complete eligibility requirements.

33. Kaiser Permanente Deloras Jones RN Scholarship Program – Southern Region

Created in 2001 in honor of Deloras Jones, RN, MN, for her 34 years of leadership and dedication to nursing at Kaiser Permanente, this scholarship assists California nursing students in completing their education. Awards are available for study at approved affiliate schools in Southern California and are selected primarily based on financial need.

Award amount: $1,000 to $3,000, depending on program level. This is a one-time award.

Eligibility requirements: Must be a California resident enrolled in an approved Kaiser Permanente affiliate nursing program in Southern California, have a minimum 3.5 GPA (or 2.5 GPA for affiliate school students), have completed at least one academic term (semester/quarter or its equivalent) or nursing program coursework including at least one clinical nursing course with a clinical rotation, and expect to graduate no earlier than December 31, 2026. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and not be a Kaiser Permanente employee. Previous recipients are not eligible.

MSN Scholarship Summary Chart

Use the chart below as a starting point to identify scholarships that align with your background, goals, and eligibility. Pay close attention to the “Best For” and “Key Details” columns, which can help you quickly narrow down the opportunities most relevant to your situation.

How Can I Find Nursing Scholarships and Grants?

You can find nursing scholarships and grants through databases, public and private organizations, businesses, and even your employer.

• Databases: National database scholarship platforms like Fastweb and Scholarships.com allow you to search for specific criteria and set up email alerts so new opportunities are delivered directly to your inbox. You can also look for nursing-specific databases and financial aid pages from schools, many of which let you filter scholarships by degree level, eligibility, and area of study.
• Organizations: Many professional nursing associations and nonprofits offer scholarships and grants for students and working nurses. Look for specialty-based organizations focused on areas like leadership, informatics, pediatrics, oncology, and more, as many provide funding opportunities tied to specific career paths or interests.
• Employers: Ask your current employer about tuition reimbursement programs, scholarships, or other education benefits. Many hospital systems and healthcare organizations offer internal funding opportunities for employees pursuing nursing degrees or certifications. You can also look for service-based programs that provide financial support in exchange for a work commitment after graduation.

How Do I Apply for Nursing Scholarships? A Step-by-Step Guide

While scholarship applications vary, there are typically a few common steps you’ll need to follow.

1. Research scholarships that match your goals and eligibility. Explore databases and talk to your human resources department to see what opportunities are available through employer or partner organizations.
2. Create a spreadsheet to track deadlines, required materials, and submission requirements. This helps you stay organized and ensures you don’t miss any important deadlines or application details.
3. Gather transcripts, resume, and RN license info. These documents are commonly required and should be prepared in advance to make the application process smoother and more efficient.
4. Write a tailored personal statement for each application. Customize each application to highlight how your goals, experience, and background align with the specific scholarship’s mission and requirements.
5. Request letters of recommendation early (if applicable). If your scholarship requires a letter of recommendation, be sure to ask your chosen recommenders well in advance to give them enough time to write a thoughtful and supportive letter.
6. Submit applications and confirm receipt. After submitting, make sure to verify that your application was received to ensure nothing is missing or incomplete.

How Can I Improve My Chances of Winning a Nursing Scholarship?

There are many ways to improve your chances of winning a scholarship, including applying to as many as possible, applying early, and customizing each application. Keep these tips in mind to increase your chances of winning:

• Apply to multiple scholarships: Increase your chances of success by applying to several opportunities rather than relying on just one, since competition can be high and each application gives you another chance to be selected.
• Customize each application: Reviewers can often spot cookie-cutter applications and generic essays, which is why it’s important to tailor each application to the specific scholarship and highlight why you’re a strong fit.
• Highlight clinical experience and career goals: You want to demonstrate your background and how this scholarship can support your long-term nursing goals, showing both your hands-on experience and your commitment to advancing your career in the field.
• Showcase leadership, volunteer work, and community impact: Be sure to highlight any leadership roles, community involvement, or volunteer experiences, and explain how your work, whether paid or unpaid, has made a meaningful impact on others.
• Proofread carefully and follow all instructions: Every scholarship application has specific instructions and requirements that, if not followed closely, could lead to disqualification. The last thing you want is for your scholarship application to be rejected due to avoidable errors or missing details.
• Apply early whenever possible: Submitting your application ahead of the deadline can help you avoid last-minute issues, ensure all materials are complete, and demonstrate strong organization and preparedness.

What Are Employer Tuition Reimbursement and Alternative Funding Options for an MSN?

Many healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement for an MSN. In addition, alternative funding options such as service-based programs and loan repayment opportunities are also available.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs

Many hospitals, health systems, and large clinics offer tuition reimbursement as a standard employee benefit, helping to cover part or all of MSN tuition costs.

The IRS also allows employers to provide up to $5,250 per year in tax-free educational assistance through qualifying tuition reimbursement programs. This benefit can be used toward eligible education expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and supplies, and may also apply to employer-paid student loan repayment under certain plans. Beginning after 2026, that annual limit is also expected to increase over time with inflation adjustments.

In most cases, reimbursement is provided after you successfully complete coursework, and some employers may require you to remain with the organization for a set period after graduation. Because policies vary by employer, it’s worth reviewing your organization’s tuition assistance policy carefully to understand eligibility requirements, reimbursement caps, approved programs, and any work commitment expectations.

Service-Based Programs

Service-based programs can also help significantly reduce the cost of an MSN degree.

As mentioned earlier, the HRSA NURSE Corps Scholarship Program covers full tuition, required fees, and a monthly living stipend for nursing students who commit to working at least two years at a Critical Shortage Facility (CSF) after graduation.

For nurses who already have education debt, the NURSE Corps Loan Repayment Program may repay up to 85% of qualifying nursing education loans in exchange for two years of full-time service at a CSF.

Military or Veteran Education Benefits

The Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) provides the most comprehensive veteran education benefits available. It can cover full in-state tuition at public schools or up to a set annual cap at private institutions, along with a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) based on the school’s ZIP code and an annual book and supply stipend. MSN programs typically qualify in full.

School-Specific Scholarships and Payment Plans

Most nursing schools with MSN programs maintain dedicated scholarship funds supported by

alumni, healthcare organizations, or private foundations. These scholarships may be awarded based on academic merit, financial need, specialty track, community service, leadership experience, or demographic factors such as first-generation student status or underrepresentation in nursing.

Schools may also offer tuition payment plans that allow students to spread costs across monthly installments rather than paying the full balance upfront each semester. These plans can help make MSN tuition more manageable, especially for working nurses balancing school with other financial responsibilities.

Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Your MSN?

The University of San Diego’s Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science is dedicated to making graduate nursing education accessible to all, and it’s why a significant number of students receive some form of financial support, whether through scholarships, grants, employer tuition reimbursement, or federal financial aid.

That commitment is at the heart of the MSN in Nursing Leadership program, which offers a flexible, comprehensive path forward designed specifically for working nurses. To learn more about the program and explore available financial support, connect with an enrollment advisor through this brief form.