Underrepresented Students in Medicine Scholarship

Name: Underrepresented Students in Medicine Scholarship

Award Amount:

• Two scholarships of $2,000 each.

Information And Eligibility:
The Underrepresented Students in Medicine Scholarship is a targeted financial award offered by the Underrepresented Students in Medicine Scholarship to support medical students from racial and ethnic groups that are underrepresented in the physician workforce. The scholarship is rooted in AMWA’s long-standing mission to advance equity, leadership, and inclusion in medicine, with a particular focus on reducing health disparities and strengthening representation within the profession.

Medical education presents significant financial and structural barriers, which can disproportionately affect students from historically underrepresented backgrounds. This scholarship is designed to help alleviate some of those barriers by providing direct financial assistance while also recognizing students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to diversity in healthcare. By supporting students early in their medical careers, the program seeks to foster a more inclusive pipeline of future physicians who are prepared to serve diverse patient populations and advocate for equitable care.

Eligible applicants must be current AMWA medical student members enrolled in accredited medical schools and must identify as members of racial or ethnic groups underrepresented in medicine, as defined by the Association of American Medical Colleges. Beyond eligibility status, the selection process emphasizes applicants’ engagement with diversity, inclusion, and service. Competitive candidates often demonstrate involvement in mentorship, advocacy initiatives, community outreach, research addressing health inequities, or leadership roles that promote inclusive medical education environments.

The scholarship committee evaluates applications holistically, considering personal experiences, leadership activities, and the applicant’s ability to articulate how diversity strengthens the medical profession and improves patient outcomes. Essay responses are a central component of the application and provide applicants with an opportunity to reflect on their journey, challenges faced, and commitment to advancing equity within medicine. Financial need may also be considered as part of the review process.

Recipients of the Underrepresented Students in Medicine Scholarship receive more than financial support. Awardees are recognized within a national professional organization dedicated to empowering women and underrepresented voices in medicine. Scholarship recipients are typically acknowledged during the AMWA Annual Meeting, offering opportunities for professional visibility, networking, and engagement with peers and physician leaders who share a commitment to inclusive excellence.

This scholarship reflects AMWA’s broader efforts to cultivate physician leaders who understand the importance of representation, cultural competence, and advocacy in healthcare. By investing in students who bring diverse perspectives and lived experiences to medicine, the program contributes to a healthcare system that is more responsive, compassionate, and effective for all communities.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a current AMWA medical student member.
• Must be enrolled in an accredited medical school.
• Must identify as a member of a racial or ethnic group underrepresented in medicine as defined by the AAMC.

Application Requirements:

• Completed scholarship application.
• Essay responses addressing diversity, inclusion, and leadership in medicine.
• Financial information demonstrating need.
• One letter of recommendation from a faculty member or mentor familiar with the applicant’s leadership and commitment to diversity.

Deadline: September

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