Nurses Educational Funds Graduate Nursing Scholarships

Name: Nurses Educational Funds (NEF) Graduate Nursing Scholarships

Award Amount: Varies

Information And Eligibility:
The Nurses Educational Funds (NEF) Graduate Nursing Scholarship Program supports high-achieving registered nurses pursuing advanced education at the master’s or doctoral level. Administered by the Nurses Educational Funds, this competitive scholarship program is designed to invest directly in future nurse leaders who demonstrate academic excellence, professional leadership, and long-term commitment to advancing the nursing profession.

NEF scholarships are awarded directly to recipients rather than to colleges or universities, providing students with greater flexibility in managing educational expenses. Applicants must have at least two semesters of study remaining after award notification in mid-June, ensuring that scholarship funds support continued academic progression. While NEF scholarships are a significant source of financial support, recipients should be aware that scholarship awards may have tax implications and are encouraged to consult a tax advisor.

The program is open to graduate nursing students across the United States who meet rigorous academic, professional, and leadership standards. NEF places strong emphasis on scholarly achievement, leadership potential, and the applicant’s ability to articulate meaningful professional goals that contribute to the future of nursing practice, education, administration, or research.

• Scholarships are paid directly to recipients
• Applicants must have at least two semesters remaining after award notification
• Focuses on leadership, academic excellence, and professional impact
• Highly competitive national graduate nursing scholarship

General Eligibility Requirements:
All applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a current RN license with a valid expiration date from any U.S. state
• Maintain active membership in a national professional nursing organization or Sigma Theta Tau International
• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency

Degree-Specific Academic Requirements:

• Master’s Degree Applicants: Completed a BSN, enrolled in an accredited graduate nursing program, completed at least 12 graded credits, and maintained a minimum GPA of 3.6
• Doctoral Degree Applicants (PhD, DNP, DNAP, EdD): Completed a bachelor’s and master’s degree, completed at least 12 graded credits, and maintained a minimum GPA of 3.6
• Accelerated BSN-to-Doctoral Applicants: Completed at least 40 graded credits and maintained a minimum GPA of 3.6

Application Requirements:
Applicants must complete the online application and submit the following:

• Three references: one academic, one employment, and one professional leadership reference
• Personal Essay and Goal Statement (750–850 words)
• Official transcripts from the current graduate nursing program
• Unofficial transcripts from prior undergraduate nursing programs
• Documentation of RN licensure, professional membership, and citizenship or residency

Deadline:

• Applications must be submitted by February 2

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