Nurse Corps Scholarship Program in USA | Bureau of Health Workforce

The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program (Nurse Corps SP) provides financial assistance to nursing students in exchange for a service commitment at eligible health care facilities with critical shortages of nurses. This program, run by the Bureau of Health Workforce, aims to address the healthcare needs of underserved populations by supporting nurses who commit to working in these underserved areas after graduation.

Eligible nursing students can apply to the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program.

If accepted, we pay your tuition, fees, and other educational costs, along with a monthly stipend. In return, after you graduate, you work at an eligible health care facility with a critical shortage of nurses.

Am I eligible for a scholarship for Nurse Corps Scholarship Program?

You are eligible if you:

• 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

Note: We give funding preference to those who need the most help financially.

How do I apply?

When there is an open application cycle:

1. Read the Application Program Guidance (PDF – 486 KB).
2. Log in or create an account on the Nurse Corps Scholarship section of My BHW to apply.

Why should I apply?

If you receive an award, you’ll get a monthly stipend—and we’ll pay your:

• Tuition
• Eligible fees
• Reasonable costs (includes books, clinical supplies/instruments, and uniforms).

Is the scholarship taxable?

Yes. Your entire scholarship award is taxable.

We report all awarded funds to the IRS. We don’t withhold state and local taxes from any of the scholarship payments.

Nurse Corps cannot provide tax advice. We recommend you consult a tax professional if you need assistance or have tax-related questions.

What is a critical shortage facility?

A critical shortage facility is a public or private health care facility located in, designated as, or serving a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA). 

A HPSA is an area lacking enough primary care or mental health professionals.

Review the Application and Program Guidance (PDF – 486 KB) for a complete list of eligible facilities. 

Why is the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program important?

Many Americans go without necessary health care. This includes checkups, preventive screenings, and vaccines. This happens when there aren’t enough health care workers in their communities.

There continues to be a need for nurses throughout the United States. The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program helps address these issues.

Contact us

Call: 1-800-221-9393 | TTY: 1-877-897-9910
Monday-Friday | 8 a.m.-8 p.m. ET (except federal holidays)