Private and Government Grants for Nurses

• Grants are available to help nurses go back to school for a higher degree.nurse chris image by John Keith from Fotolia.com
  
  As of 2010, there is a shortage of registered nurses (RNs) in the United States. The Health Resources and Services Administration predicts that by 2020, the number of licensed RN's will have dropped by about 83,000. To counter this predicted decline, private organizations and the federal government are offering more grants to help potential nursing students pay for school. Grants are also available to help nurses go back to school for a higher degree.
  
  

Nursing Scholarship Program

• Each year, the Nursing Scholarship program offers more than 200 grants or scholarships. Preference is given to students attending a full-time undergraduate program. In addition to tuition and related expenses, the scholarship provides a $1,000 monthly stipend, as of 2010. Nurses who are awarded the money are required to work for at least two years at a high-need nursing facility.
  
  

National Health Service Corps

• As of 2010, the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) awards $50,000 to pay back school loans for medical professionals who agree to work for two years at an approved site. The NHSC provides health care to the nation's under-served population. Those who are qualified for the award must have professional training in the medical profession. The program also offers scholarships to students in medical training.
  
  

American Academy of Nurse Practitioners

• As of 2010, the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) awards two grants for $5,000 in a given term. Applicants must be a AANP members. You can apply for membership on the organization's website.
  
  

Military Grants

• The military offers grants that cover tuition and school supplies. As of 2010, a $2,026 living expense is also included. Grant recipients must serve in the military, usually one year for each year the grant is awarded.
  
  

American Holistic Nurses Association

• The American Holistic Nurses Association provides grants for members researching topics related to holistic nursing. Applicants must include a five-page research proposal. Grants are awarded for up to $3,500, as of 2010. The research project must be completed within two years. Graduate students can apply for the Charlotte McGuire Scholarship Fund through the organization.