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Scholarships for Students Interested in Assisted Living Careers
Date Updated: July 24, 2024
As Baby Boomers age, the need for senior care in the United States is growing and only expected to expand more in the coming decades. And since more seniors today live far from their adult children or don’t have children to help out, many older adults will need care in an assisted living community or other paid senior care.
With these major demographic shifts, there’s never been a greater need for a trained workforce committed to providing the care and case management that millions of older adults rely on every day. As the demand for these services continues to rise, employment among medical and health services managers is expected to grow by 20 percent over the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That’s more than twice the rate of growth for other management occupations, according to the BLS.
Careers in Assisted Living
While a career in assisted living may conjure up images of nurses pushing elderly residents in wheelchairs, that’s only one of many roles needed in a modern assisted living community. An increasing number of high-paying positions, including administrators and managers, will need to be filled as the industry continues to grow. Some of the key positions you’ll find in a typical assisted living community today include:
- nurse practitioners
- activity directors
- medical directors
- resident care coordinators
- social workers
- clinical nutrition managers
For all of the different career options available in today’s booming senior care industry, there are just as many degrees students can pursue to get there. And while they’re not always easy to find, there are also plenty of scholarships available to make those students’ dreams a reality — whether they’re studying healthcare, social work or business administration.
Below, we’ve gathered some of the top scholarships available today for students interested in a career in assisted living and other types of senior care.
Scholarships for Gerontology Students
Universities across the U.S. today offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Gerontology, which are designed to give students the knowledge and tools they’ll need to understand and address some of the key issues affecting older adults in senior health care or long-term care settings.
Sometimes known as Aging Studies, the curriculum for a gerontology degree typically includes coursework in adult development, health issues, social policy and elder care services. A degree in Gerontology can provide an excellent foundation for a career in assisted living, particularly for management and administration positions.
What follows are some of the top scholarships available today for students pursuing a Gerontology degree.
Award: A chance to present an unpublished research paper at the 2019 Aging in America Conference + a one-year student membership to ASA and complimentary conference registration
Description: Designed to spark academic and clinical interest in the field of aging, this award goes to the author of the best unpublished research paper relevant to aging that can be applied in practice.
Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate degree program in the field of aging or have finished their degree program less than a year before submitting their application, and be sponsored by a faculty member.
Application Requirements: Applicants must submit an unpublished research paper on a completed project relevant to the field of aging.
Where to Apply: Graduate students can submit their papers on the ASA Graduate Student Research Award page on the ASA website.
Deadline: October 15
Award: The CALA Conference & Trade Show, plus travel/lodging assistance for students who demonstrate need.
Description: Awardees will have the opportunity to attend the CALA conference and learn more about the senior living field and career opportunities, meet prospective employers, and network with senior living professionals.
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students in California are welcome to apply.
Application Requirements: Applicants must submit an unpublished research paper on a completed project relevant to the field of aging.
Where to Apply: For more information and the application form, visit the CALA website.
Deadline: October 3, 2018 for the Palm Springs conference, taking place on November 5-7, 2018. May 3, 2019 for the Monterey conference, taking place on June 3-5, 2019.
Award: Selected students will work for AFAR for 15-20 hours per week for a full semester, and receive a $5,000 honorarium.
Description: The Clarence Pearson Fellowship is awarded by the American Federation for Aging Research. The fall 2018 fellowship has a special focus on communications and messaging about aging, research, and health.
Eligibility: Applicants must be currently enrolled in a graduate program with at least one semester completed or be a recent masters-level graduate, and reside in the New York City or Philadelphia area.
Application Requirements: Applicants must submit recent transcripts, a resume/CV, and a cover letter expressing their interest and/or experience in communications on aging, health, or research, and how the honorarium will help them.
Where to Apply: Applicants can submit their application via mail or email. The mailing address and more information can be found on the AFAR website.
Deadline: August 1
Award: $500
Description: This scholarship was established in honor of Dorothy Fruit, former director of Kent State University’s School of Family and Consumer studies. It recognizes an outstanding student pursuing a career in gerontology.
Eligibility: Applicants must be of junior standing and majoring in human development and family studies with a concentration in gerontology. Students must also have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and relevant work or volunteer experience. More details about the award can be found on the university’s scholarship page.
Application Requirements: Students must complete an online application via the Kent State student portal.
Where to Apply: Students can access the application from the College of Education, Health, and Human Services student portal.
Deadline: November 9
Award: $1,000
Description: The University of Central Missouri established the Dr. Billy Hu Scholarship in 2011 to support students studying social gerontology.
Eligibility: Eligible applicants must be pursuing an MA in sociology or MS in social gerontology, be an international student, and demonstrate good character and leadership skills.
Application Requirements: Students must submit an application, a 300-word statement on their professional goals, and two references.
Where to Apply: For more information about the scholarship and application, visit the university’s sociology program scholarship page.
Deadline: March 1
Award: Varies
Description: George Mason University offers multiple scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in gerontology. The scholarships provide financial assistance for students enrolled in gerontology-related programs or who show demonstrated interest in careers in senior care.
Eligibility: The different scholarships have different eligibility criteria. For all scholarships, there is a minimum GPA requirement of 2.75 for undergraduate students and 3.0 for graduate students.
Application Requirements: Students must complete an online application, including supplemental essays about their interest in gerontology and the respective scholarship.
Where to Apply: Students can apply using the online Mason Scholarship Application. For more information, visit the George Mason University scholarships page.
Deadline: April 30.
Award: $2,000
Description: The Hawaii Pacific Gerontological Society awards scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students interested in careers involving elder care or aging populations.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled at a University of Hawaii campus, BYU-Hawaii, Hawaii Pacific University, or Chaminade University, have at least two semesters remaining before graduation, and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Application Requirements: Students must complete an application form, and submit a recent transcript and one letter of recommendation. Graduate students must also give a brief description of their thesis or dissertation, if applicable.
Where to Apply: Students can find the application form and submission address on the HPGS scholarship page.
Deadline: July 16
Award: $1,000
Description: This scholarship, established by the Colorado Gerontological Society, is designed to encourage academic pursuits in the field of aging.
Eligibility: Applicants must be full-time students enrolled in an accredited college or university in Colorado and pursuing a degree in gerontology, social work, public policy, or medical fields with a focus on aging populations.
Application Requirements: Interested students must complete an online application as well as two-page essay detailing their interest in working with the elderly, their work experience in the field, leadership skills, and plans for the future and their career in gerontology and/or working with seniors.
Where to Apply: Students can find the application form on the Colorado Gerontological Society website.
Deadline: Applications for the following calendar year are typically due in November.
Award: Up to $2,000
Description: The Northwest Ohio Gerontological Association established this scholarship in honor of John Vance, a longtime member of the NOGA remembered for his commitment to helping older adults and mentoring students.
Eligibility: The scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students in Northwest Ohio planning to pursue careers in gerontology or other aging-related fields.
Application Requirements: Applicants must submit an online application, two-page essay regarding the aging population and their future plans to assist seniors, and a letter of recommendation from an academic advisor or instructor in the field of gerontology.
Where to Apply: More information on the scholarship and application can be found on the Northwest Ohio Gerontological Association website.
Deadline: Varies. Applications for the following academic year are typically due in March.
Award: Selected students will receive an internship placement for the academic year, and a $10,000 award to defray academic expenses.
Description: The Kott Gerontology Program is an internship program for advanced students to gain field experience in gerontology. Selected students must complete 720 hours of on-site field work throughout the duration of the internship.
Eligibility: Applicants must be full-time graduate students in an accredited university program. Students must be located in the Chicago area.
Application Requirements: Interested students must submit an application form, resume, and two references (one from a faculty member of their current program, one non-academic reference). Selected applicants will then be invited to participate in an in-person interview with an admissions committee. Awardees will be selected following the interviews.
Where to Apply: Students can visit the Kott Gerontology Institute Scholarship website for more information on the application process.
Deadline: Applications are accepted from January 1 through April 1.
Award: Minimum $500
Description: This scholarship is designed for undergraduate students at Western Michigan University who show dedication to a career serving the aging.
Eligibility: Applicants must be full-time undergraduate students at WMU focusing their studies on gerontology and older adults.
Application Requirements: Interested students must complete an online application.
Where to Apply: Students can apply online via the WMU College of Health and Human Services website. More detailed information on the scholarship is available on the university’s scholarships and awards page.
Deadline: The deadline for the following calendar year typically falls in December.
Award: Varies
Description: The Myna D. Schlegel/AWARE Scholarship is awarded to undergraduate and graduate nursing students who have chosen to specialize in gerontology and caring for seniors with dementia.
Eligibility: Eligible students must be enrolled in Baylor University, Texas Woman’s University, or Texas Christian University, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be able to demonstrate their passion for gerontology.
Application Requirements: Interested students must complete an online application, and submit a transcript, personal essay, and letter of recommendation from a professor or university administrator.
Where to Apply: Students can apply via the online application form.
Deadline: Varies, but typically falls in early spring.
Award: $1,000
Description: This scholarship financially assists students pursuing careers in gerontology or geriatrics.
Eligibility: Eligible students must be enrolled in an accredited university in the southeastern United States as an undergraduate junior or senior, or graduate student. Recipients will be selected based on academic performance, financial need, writing skills, involvement with the SE4A network, and commitment to volunteer work with seniors.
Application Requirements: Students must submit an application form, a 3-page essay describing their interest in their field of gerontology and goals for the future, a transcript, and three letters of recommendation, including one recommendation from their local AAA chapter.
Where to Apply: Students will submit their application materials via email. More information on the scholarship, application process, and mailing address is available on the SE4A website.
Deadline: Application deadline typically falls in May.
Award: $3,000 and complimentary registration to the GGS/SGS Annual Conference.
Description: The Virginia Smyth Scholarship, awarded by the Georgia Gerontology Society, is designed for students pursuing gerontology in order to promote leadership in the field of aging.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in a graduate program in Georgia for gerontology or other aging-related field, demonstrate leadership potential and their commitment to working with seniors, and have a strong academic record.
Application Requirements: Students must complete an online application, a 1-2 page essay describing their commitment to the field, a resume/CV, a statement of financial need, two letters of recommendation, and official transcript.
Where to Apply: The application form can be found on the Georgia Gerontology Society website.
Deadline: The 2018 deadline was February 9. Check the GGS website for the 2019 deadline.
Award: $2,000 and and complimentary registration to the GGS/SGS Annual Conference.
Description: Another Georgia Gerontological Society award, the Robert P. Wray Scholarship is open to undergraduate students enrolled in a gerontology or aging-focused program.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in an undergraduate gerontology or other aging-related program in Georgia and be able to demonstrate their commitment to working with seniors.
Application Requirements: Students must submit a standard GGS online application, a 1-2 page personal essay on their interest and commitment to gerontology, a resume, a statement of financial need, an official transcript, and two letters of recommendation.
Where to Apply: The application form can be found on the Georgia Gerontology Society website.
Deadline: The 2018 deadline was February 9. Check the GGS website for the 2019 deadline.
Award: $1,000-$2,000
Description: The University of Minnesota Medical School offers two awards for medical students who excel in geriatric research. The Student Award for Excellence is a $1,000 award given to the medical student who authors the best paper on a topic relating to healthcare of older adults. The Resident Award for Excellence is a $2,000 award given to the resident who authors the best paper on the same topic.
Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in The University of Minnesota Medical School.
Application Requirements: Students’ submissions must reflect scholarly work, such as a thorough literature review, case study, or report of a research project.
Where to Apply: Students can submit their research to an office at the university. The winning papers will be selected by a panel of faculty specialists. More information about the application process is available on the department’s website.
Deadline: February 1
Award: Varies
Description: The California State University- Sacramento Department of Gerontology offers multiple scholarships to its students. Each scholarship is chosen based on different criteria, including academic performance, volunteer/work experience, and application essay.
Eligibility: The various scholarships have different eligibility criteria, including GPA, class standing, and demographics. Applicants for all scholarships must be enrolled at CSUS.
Application Requirements: All scholarships require students complete an online application. In addition to the application, some scholarships may require supplemental materials such as a personal essay or letters of recommendation.
Where to Apply: Students can apply online. For more information, visit the CSUS Department of Gerontology website.
Deadline: March 15
Award: Varies
Description: This scholarship supports current members and alumnae of the Sigma Kappa sorority pursuing careers in aging-related services.
Eligibility: Applicants must be of junior, senior, or graduate-level standing, have at least one year of study remaining, and a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Application Requirements: Applicants must submit their cumulative GPA, financial aid information, a personal essay and two letters of recommendation.
Where to Apply: Students will apply via the Sigma Kappa members-only web page. For more information, visit the Sigma Kappa Scholarships & Grants page.
Deadline: February 1
Award: Varies
Description: The Ruth C. Easley Scholarship is part of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority Educational Advancement Foundation. The funds encourage lifelong learning for AKA members.
Eligibility: The scholarship is available to African American undergraduate and graduate female students pursuing a career in geriatric research or other aging services. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and at least sophomore standing.
Application Requirements: Students must submit an online application.
Where to Apply: Students can apply using the Alpha Kappa Alpha online scholarship portal.
Deadline: Varies. For updated deadlines and more information, visit the Educational Advancement Foundation website.
Award: Varies
Description: The Gerontology Institute at Georgia State University offers numerous scholarships each year to students studying gerontology.
Eligibility: Eligibility criteria for the different scholarships varies.
Application Requirements: Information about the scholarships and application process is communicated via email to GSU gerontology students.
Where to Apply: For more information, contact gerontology@gsu.edu or visit the Gerontology Institute website.
Deadline: Deadlines will be communicated to GSU students via email.
Scholarships for Nursing Students
Propelled partially by the surging Baby Boomer population, nurses are in ever high demand (employment of RNs is expected to grow by 15 percent over the next decade). That makes a nursing degree a smart investment for those who are passionate about helping patients in senior care settings. Most assisted living communities across the U.S. hire on-site or on-call RNs to provide care to their residents, since personal care staff members are typically not permitted by law to provide medical care.
Students interested in pursuing a career in nursing and senior care can choose from a number of different degree programs. Some common nursing degrees in the U.S. include an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BDN), a master’s degree in nursing (MDN) or a doctor of nursing practice degree (DNP). Coursework often include sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, nutrition and psychology.
Award: $2,000-$7,500
Description: The de Tornyay Center for Healthy Aging at the University of Washington offers multiple scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate nursing students who would like to pursue research in gerontology. Undergraduate awardees will work with a mentor to examine pre-existing research or conduct their own research projects. Graduate students use the scholarship funds for their thesis, dissertation, or other research project.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in a University of Washington nursing program and have a staff mentor to guide their research.
Application Requirements: Students must submit an online application and a proposal for a gerontology research project. Applicants are selected based on the quality of their application, feasibility and significance of the proposed project, and their commitment to gerontology.
Where to Apply: Students can apply online via the de Tornyay Center for Healthy Aging website.
Deadline: Applications are open once a year. The deadline typically falls during the autumn quarter of the academic year.
Award: $250-$500
Description: ExceptionalNurse.com awards multiple scholarships each year to nursing students who have a disability to support these students’ continued education in a nursing program.
Eligibility: Applicants must have a documented disability and be enrolled or accepted into a full-time college or university program in order to be eligible. Graduate students may apply, but preference is given to undergraduate students.
Application Requirements: Applicants should submit a completed application form, three letters of recommendation, a 1-2 page personal essay, official school transcripts, and a Medical Verification of Disability form.
Where to Apply: Interested students can access the application form online. To learn more about the various scholarships available, visit the ExceptionalNurse.com scholarship page.
Deadline: June 1
Award: $1,000
Description: This scholarship awards student nurses to encourage students and help remedy the current nurse shortage.
Eligibility: Applicants must be full-time nursing students enrolled in an accredited institution, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3 and have completed at least 30 credit hours.
Application Requirements: Interested students must submit the online application, recent transcripts, an updated resume, and a 1-page essay on their motivation and ultimate goals.
Where to Apply: The application form and more details about the scholarship can be found on the Hospital Careers website.
Deadline: August 1st for the fall award, January 15th for the spring award.
Award: $3,000
Description: The Jane Delano Student Nurse Scholarship, sponsored by the American Red Cross, provides financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate nursing students to encourage nursing as a career and the involvement of new nurses with the Red Cross.
Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited nursing program in the United States, have completed a minimum of one year of credits, and have experience working for an American Red Cross Unit or have volunteer experience with the organization within the last 5 years.
Application Requirements: Students must submit an application form, a Red Cross Endorsement from their local Red Cross leadership, an academic endorsement from the dean/chair of their institution or nursing program, and an essay describing their experience with the Red Cross and how they will contribute to the nursing profession.
Where to Apply: For application materials and more information, visit the Red Cross website.
Deadline: May 11, 2019
Award: $1,000
Description: JustHomeMedical.com’s Health Care Leader Scholarship awards one student pursuing a career in healthcare to encourage leadership in the healthcare field.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in an accredited institution and studying to become a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, physical therapist, or other health-related career.
Application Requirements: Applicants create a short video explaining their long and short-term goals as a healthcare leader. The video must be under 3 minutes.
Where to Apply: Students should submit their videos to scholarship@justhomemedical.com. For more details, visit the JustHomeMedical scholarship page.
Deadline: End of the calendar year
Award: $1,000-$5,000
Description: These scholarships, sponsored by the NAHN, are awarded to Hispanic nursing students who have the potential to contribute to the nursing profession and serve as a role model for aspiring nursing students.
Eligibility: Applicants must be NAHN members and enrolled in a LVN/LPN, associate, diploma, baccalaureate, or graduate nursing program.
Application Requirements: Applicants must submit a completed application form, two letters of recommendation from faculty members of their nursing program, a 500-word personal essay, an updated resume, a financial need summary sheet, an official transcript, and verification of membership status in NAHN.
Where to Apply: For more details on the available scholarships, visit the NAHN Awards and Scholarships page.
Deadline: Applications for 2019 will open in the spring.
Award: $1,000-$6,000
Description: The NBNA offers 17 different scholarships for nursing students to encourage their continued education and contribution to the healthcare of their communities.
Eligibility: Applicants must be a member of the NBNA, be enrolled in a nursing program (B.S.N., A.D., Masters, L.P.N/L.V.N, or doctoral) and in good academic standing, and have at least one full year of school left at the time of application.
Application Requirements: Applicants must submit their official transcript from an accredited school of nursing, a 2-page personal essay, two letters of recommendation (one from a staff member at the student’s school of nursing, and one from the local NBNA chapter), and a headshot. Some applicants may also be asked to provide documented evidence of their involvement with student nurse activities and/or the African American community.
Where to Apply: More details on the various scholarships can be found on the NBNA website.
Deadline: April 15
Award: $200-$1,000
Description: Salisbury University in Maryland offers several scholarships for nursing students to encourage their nursing education.
Eligibility: The various scholarships have different eligibility criteria, but all require applicants to be enrolled in the university’s school of nursing.
Application Requirements: Early in the spring semester, all eligible nursing majors receive a scholarship information packet outlining the scholarship options and materials required for submission. Each scholarship requires a separate application.
Where to Apply: Students will receive their information packet in the spring semester. More information on the many scholarships offered can be found on the university’s Nursing Department website.
Deadline: Varies
Award: $5,000-$10,000
Description: Each year, Tylenol offers scholarships to 40 undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in healthcare. 10 students receive a $10,000 scholarship, and 30 students receive a $5,000 scholarship to be used towards tuition, books, and supplies required for courses.
Eligibility: Students must be able to provide proof of enrollment in a health-related degree program at an accredited institution in order to be eligible.
Application Requirements: Required application materials include an official transcript and personal essay.
Where to Apply: Students can apply on the Tylenol Future Care Scholarship website.
Deadline: June 28
Award: $500- $6,000
Description: The University of Cincinnati College of Nursing offers numerous scholarships for nursing students enrolled in the BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD onsite programs to award academic achievement and assist students with financial need.
Eligibility: The different scholarships have different eligibility criteria. For all scholarships, students must be enrolled in onsite programs (those enrolled in distance or post-masters programs are not eligible). For eligibility information for each of the scholarships, visit the College of Nursing scholarship page.
Application Requirements: The application process for different scholarships varies. Students may be required to file the Free Application for Federal Financial Aid before submitting their application. For more information, interested students can contact the Office of Student Affairs.
Where to Apply: Students can contact the College of Nursing Office of Student Affairs for applications.
Deadline: Applications become available to students early in the spring semester each year.
Award: Varies
Description: The UNCG School of Nursing offers over 50 scholarships for students studying nursing. Recipients are chosen based on factors like financial need and academic performance, though different scholarships prioritize different qualities.
Eligibility: The scholarships are only available to upper division students (juniors, seniors, and graduate students) at UNCG.
Application Requirements: Students complete just one basic application that puts them into consideration for all scholarships.
Where to Apply: Students can get an application at the Office of the Associate Dean of the School of Nursing. Applications become available around December 1st each year. For more details on the many available scholarships, visit the UNCG School of Nursing website.
Deadline: March 1st
Award: Varies
Description: The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing scholarship program provides financial support for undergraduate students of the nursing program. Multiple students receive awards each year and are selected by the scholarship committee based on a range of factors including academic standing, leadership, diversity, and financial need.
Eligibility: All students enrolled in the university’s nursing program or who have been accepted for the upcoming academic year are welcome to apply.
Application Requirements: Students complete an application form. One application puts students into consideration for all scholarships.
Where to Apply: More information about the scholarships and application can be found on the School of Nursing website.
Deadline: January 31 for current students, May 15 for new students.
Award: Varies
Description: The University of Texas offers many scholarship opportunities for students in the School of Nursing. Different scholarships have different criteria and focus areas, including the Edgar and Grace Gnitzinger Scholarship Fund for students pursuing careers in geriatric nursing. For more information on the many scholarships available to nursing students, visit the School of Nursing website.
Eligibility: To apply for any of the scholarships, students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Application Requirements: 2-3 months prior to the start of the semester, all enrolled students will receive an email outlining the application process for that semester.
Where to Apply: Students can access the scholarship application by logging onto the university’s scholarship system portal.
Deadline: Varies. Deadline information for all scholarships will be included in the scholarship email that all nursing students receive prior to the start of the semester.
Scholarships for Social Work Students
As the demand for health care professionals rises with the rapidly rising senior population, so too does the need for social workers who can help ensure that older adults of all socioeconomic levels get the care they need. A degree in social work will equip any student with the knowledge he or she needs to pursue a career as a social worker across a wide spectrum of industries and organizations, including hospitals, treatment centers and long-term senior care settings.
Coursework toward a social work degree typically includes liberal arts prerequisites along with more advanced classes covering topics such as social welfare policy, social work research methods and case management practice. Many degree programs also include real-life work experience in the field of social work. A social work degree can prepare students with the expertise needed for a career as an administrator in an assisted living company.
Award: $1,000-$5,000
Description: This scholarship is designed to financially assist New Hampshire residents pursuing post-secondary degrees in medicine, social work, in medicine, nursing, or social work.
Eligibility: Applicants must be New Hampshire residents enrolled post-secondary education, and intend to work in New Hampshire.
Application Requirements: Students must submit a completed application, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, an official transcript from their current institution, and two letters of recommendation, including one from an instructor at their current institution.
Where to Apply: Students can find the application form online. Applicants must submit their applications via mail to the Alice M. and Samuel Yarnold Scholarship Trust.
Deadline: May 21
Award: $1,000
Description: The Association for Gerontology Education in Social Work awards one scholarship per year to an outstanding MSW student.
Eligibility: Eligible students must be of ethnic minority, enrolled in a MSW program accredited by CSWE, and demonstrate passion for a career in gerontology.
Application Requirements: Rather than apply, students must be nominated for this scholarship by one or more of their professors, at least one of whom must be an AGESW member. The nomination packet includes a nomination form, letter of recommendation, and resume or CV.
Where to Apply: More information can be found on the AGESW awards page.
Deadline: July 13
Award: Varies
Description: Arizona State University offers several scholarships of varying award amounts for School of Social Work Students.
Eligibility: Scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate students, as well as full-time and part-time students pursuing degrees in social work. Criteria vary, but most have a minimum GPA requirement.
Application Requirements: The various scholarships have different application components, but all can be accessed via the student portal app.
Where to Apply: To find out more, contact the ASU School of Social Work or visit the school’s website.
Deadline: April 13
Award: $500
Description: This scholarship is offered by the Council on Social Work Education for students pursuing undergraduate or graduate education in a social work degree program. More information about the scholarship can be found on the CSWE website.
Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled full-time in a social work degree program accredited by the CSWE. Other eligibility requirements include a minimum GPA of 3.0, and a demonstrated commitment to social justice.
Application Requirements: Students must submit an application form, students must submit a personal statement on their professional interests, future goals, and past experiences, one letter of recommendation, and an official transcript
Where to Apply: Interested students can apply on the online portal.
Deadline: July 31
Award: $1,000
Description: The Grand View University Catalyst Scholarship supports a student majoring in social work who shows promise as a “catalyst” for change in the field. For more information about the scholarship, visit the university’s scholarships and grants page.
Eligibility: Students must already be admitted to the Grand View University social work program, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and demonstrate financial need.
Application Requirements: Students must submit an application form and essay about how they are and will continue to be a catalyst for change in social work.
Where to Apply: Students can apply using the university’s online portal.
Deadline: February 22
Award: Varies
Description: Indiana University offers several scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in the School of Social Work.
Eligibility: Varies, but all school of social work students are eligible for at least one of the scholarships.
Application Requirements: Along with a standard application, most of the scholarships require students to write at least one short essay.
Where to Apply: Each fall, students enrolled in the School of Social Work receive an email about scholarship opportunities and the application process. More information on the scholarships can be found on the IU School of Social Work website.
Deadline: Varies – students will receive information about deadlines in the scholarship email.
Award: $1,000
Description: The American Clinical Social Work Association sponsors the Judith Holm Memorial Award to award graduate level social work students who have demonstrated a readiness to enter the professional field. Applicants must be sponsored by the faculty coordinator of their field placement.
Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in a MSW program, and a member of the ACSWA.
Application Requirements: Students must submit an academic paper detailing a field-placement intervention that they undertook while in school. The paper should demonstrate the students’ readiness to enter professional social work practice.
Where to Apply: Applicants must submit their papers and sponsor letters via email. More details on the requirements of the paper can be found on the Holm Award web page.
Deadline: May 1
Award: Varies
Description: Loyola University of Chicago offers multiple scholarships for MSW students, as well as a scholarship for students in the combined BSW/MSW program. The scholarships focus on different qualities, including merit and financial need.
Eligibility: Eligibility criteria vary for the different scholarships.
Application Requirements: The various scholarships have their own application requirements. In general, students will have to complete an application form and an essay or personal statement. Some scholarships require a letter of recommendation and/or submission of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Where to Apply: Visit the university’s School of Social Work website for links to all scholarship applications as well as more information on the available scholarships, their eligibility requirements, and application process.
Deadline: March 1st for summer & fall admission, October 1st for spring admission.
Award: $5,000-$10,000 per semester
Description: The University of Michigan Geriatric Scholarship Program offers financial awards to graduate students enrolled in the MSW program who choose the Aging in Families and Society practice area. If selected, students must receive a Specialist in Aging certificate, enroll in and complete the university’s geriatric seminar, and complete two aging-related field work placements.
Eligibility: Students must be applying for the MSW program and select the Aging in Families and Society practice area.
Application Requirements: Interested students can apply for the Geriatric Scholarship Program while they apply for admission to the MSW program. If students select that they would like to apply for the scholarship, the application will be added to the end of their general MSW application.
Where to Apply: The scholarship application is included in the general MSW program application. More information about the scholarship and application process is available on the School of Social Work website.
Deadline: March 1
Award: Varies. For some of the scholarships, the university applies the award directly to students’ tuition and fees.
Description: The University of Wisconsin- Green Bay has numerous scholarship opportunities for undergraduate students majoring in social work.
Eligibility: Criteria varies, but all require that applicants be in good academic standing.
Application Requirements: Each scholarship has its own application, including a standard form and short essay questions related to the student’s past experiences, future plans, and interest in and commitment to social work.
Where to Apply: For a list of all of the available scholarships and their applications, visit the university’s social work program website.
Deadline: Varies
Award: Varies
Description: The School of Social Work at Baylor University offers several scholarships, including awards specifically for students pursuing careers in gerontological social work.
Eligibility: Most of the scholarships are open only to MSW students, but undergraduate students interested in gerontology are eligible for The Robert Lee and Martha Dee Guthrie Scholarship.
Application Requirements: Students do not apply for specific scholarships. The Associate Dean will match students with appropriate scholarships based on merit, financial need, and students’ interest areas
Where to Apply: More details on the scholarships is available on the Baylor School of Social Work website.
Deadline: Varies
Award: Varies
Description: The Bernard A. & Marjorie E. Ward Scholarship is one of the many scholarships available to students of the University of Kentucky College of Social Work. Both BASW and MSW students are welcome to apply.
Eligibility: Students must be in their senior year of undergraduate education or first year of graduate education. Applicants should have a history of demonstrated interest in working with seniors.
Application Requirements: Applicants will complete an online application.
Where to Apply: Interested students can apply online via the College of Social work online portal. For more information, visit the College of Social work scholarship page.
Deadline: January 19
Scholarships for Healthcare Management Students
A degree in healthcare management or business administration can provide an excellent foundation for students interested in pursuing a career as a healthcare manager, making decisions over the way health care is delivered. These types of degrees are well suited to long-term care settings such as assisted living communities, particularly for high-paying management and administration positions.
Healthcare management degree programs usually include coursework in healthcare law and policy, marketing, human resources, healthcare financing and organizational behavior. These courses help prepare students for a career managing everything from an individual assisted living community to a large, nationwide company.
Award: $5,000
Description: This scholarship, established by the American College of Healthcare Executives, is awarded annually to up to 15 minority students to help offset tuition costs and other academic expenses.
Eligibility: Eligible students must be enrolled in their final year of a graduate level healthcare management program, such as MPH, MHA, or MBA in Healthcare Administration.
Application Requirements: an updated resume/CV, official undergraduate and graduate transcripts, three letters of recommendation (including one from the student’s graduate program director), and a personal essay.
Where to Apply: Applications for 2019 will open on January 1, 2019 on the ACHE website.
Deadline: March 31
Award: $40,000
Description: This scholarship, offered through the Association of University Programs in Health Administration, is awarded annually to a full-time student entering a graduate program in the healthcare field. The program must be a member of the AUPHA.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in a AUPHA-member master’s degree program, be a full-time student, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be a student of color.
Application Requirements: Interested students must complete an online application. Required application components include applicants’ GRE or GMAT scores, a current resume, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation.
Where to Apply: The application and more details on the award, eligibility criteria, and the application process can be found on the AUPHA website.
Deadline: April 17
Award: $1,000
Description: The Elliot C. Roberts Scholarship is awarded annually to graduate students pursuing masters degrees in healthcare administration, or a comparable degree (MPH, MHA, MPA, MBA, MSN or BSN, etc).
Eligibility: Students must be in their first or second year of graduate school, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and demonstrate financial need and a commitment to serving the community.
Application Requirements: Students must complete an online application.
Where to Apply: The application and more information about the scholarship can be found on the Institute for Diversity website.
Deadline: Varies
Award: $5,000
Description: This scholarship was established by the American College of Healthcare Executives to provide financial assistance to graduate students pursuing careers in healthcare management. Up to 15 students per year receive the award, which can be used to offset costs of tuition, student loans, and other related expenses
Eligibility: Students must be in their final year of a healthcare management graduate program and be able to demonstrate financial need.
Application Requirements: Students must submit an online application form, as well as an updated resume/CV, official undergraduate and graduate transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a personal essay.
Where to Apply: The application and more information about the scholarship can be found on the ACHE website.
Deadline: March 31
Award: Varies based on financial need
Description: The Gates Millennium Scholarship Program offers financial assistance to undergraduate students of color pursuing a bachelor’s degree in any area of interest. Graduate students may also apply for funding if they are pursuing specific disciplines, including public health. 1,000 students are selected for the scholarship each year.
Eligibility: Applicants must be minority students and have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 or higher.
Application Requirements: the student application form, an evaluation of the student’s academic record from an educator, and an evaluation of the student’s leadership and community service activities from another recommender.
Where to Apply: For more information on the program and application, visit the Gates Millennium Scholars website.
Deadline: January 13
Award: $3,500
Description: The Harry J. Harwick Scholarship, sponsored by the American College of Medical Practice Executives, is awarded to one student per year who shows potential to contribute to the healthcare management profession.
Eligibility: Students must submit an essay stating their career goals and objectives, a current resume highlighting their experience in the healthcare field, and three letters of recommendation.
Application Requirements: Students must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program for healthcare administration, healthcare management, public health, or a related discipline at an accredited school.
Where to Apply: More information about the scholarship and contact information can be found on the ACMPE Scholarship Fund page.
Deadline: May 5
Award: $5,000 and a free trip to the HIMSS annual conference.
Description: The HIMSS Foundation awards two annual scholarships to one student each at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in a healthcare information and management systems program or studying a related field, and must be a member of of HIMSS. Undergraduate applicants must be first-term juniors when the scholarship is awarded.
Application Requirements: Students can apply for the scholarship themselves, or be nominated. All applicants must submit a completed online application form, an updated resume/CV, and two letters of recommendation
Where to Apply: For the application and more information, visit the HIMSS website.
Deadline: September 10
Award: Up to $40,000 per year
Description: The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation offers scholarships to high-achieving undergraduate students with financial need. The College Scholarship Program is awarded to high school seniors entering four-year colleges and universities, while the Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is awarded to students transferring from community colleges to four-year colleges and universities.
Eligibility: Applicants must have a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.5, a minimum SAT score of 1200 or minimum ACT composite of 26, and demonstrated unmet financial need.
Application Requirements: Students must submit an application form including information on their demographic and academic background, a self-assessment and multiple choice questions, a school profile completed by the student’s principle or guidance counselor, two letters of recommendation from teachers, official transcripts, short and long essays, and a financial form.
Where to Apply: For more information on the scholarships and the application process, visit the Foundation website.
Deadline: November 27
Award: $2,500
Description: The National Association of Health Services Executives offers multiple scholarships for African American students pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree in healthcare management or related fields.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in an accredited institution, be a NAHSE member, be able to demonstrate financial need, and meet minimum GPA requirements (2.5 for undergraduates, 3.0 for graduate students).
Application Requirements: Students must submit an application portfolio including a cover letter, application form, personal statement, official college transcripts from all institutions attended, updated resume, three letters of recommendation, and a personal photo. Applicants who are not already NAHSE members must submit their membership application and yearly dues with their scholarship application.
Where to Apply: The application form and more details about the scholarships are available on the NAHSE website.
Deadline: May 29
Award: Up to $20,000 per academic year, as well as paid research training at the NIH during the summer and paid employment and training at NIH following graduation.
Description: The Undergraduate Scholarship program is intended for students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are pursuing careers in biomedical, behavioral, and social science research.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled full-time at an accredited four-year college or university, have a minimum GPA of 3.3, and demonstrate exceptional financial need.
Application Requirements: Before applying, students are encouraged to complete the Exceptional Financial Need form to ensure that they qualify for the scholarship. Students must then submit an online application form, transcript, resume, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation.
Where to Apply: For more details on the scholarship and application process, visit the NIH Undergraduate Scholarship Program website.
Deadline: March 15
Award: $1,000
Description: The Robert G. Shouldice Scholarship, sponsored by the American College of Medical Practice Executives, is awarded to one graduate level student per year.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in a master’s or doctoral level healthcare management program.
Application Requirements: Interested students must submit an essay stating their career goals and objectives, a resume detailing their experience in healthcare related positions, and three letters of recommendation.
Where to Apply: More information can be found on the scholarship website.
Deadline: June 1
Award: $2,500
Description: The Richard L. Davis National Scholarship is designed to encourage students who plan to pursue careers in the healthcare field.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in healthcare management or a related field, including public health and healthcare administration.
Application Requirements: Applicants must submit a personal statement, a resume describing their specific employment experience in healthcare related positions, and three letters of recommendation.
Where to Apply: More details are available on the scholarship website.
Deadline: May 1
Award: $5,000
Description: This scholarship is designed to help graduate students cover tuition and other school-related costs.
Eligibility: Applicants must be first or second year graduate students pursuing a degree in healthcare administration or a degree in a comparable field such as MPH, MHA, MPA, MSN, or MBA. Other criteria includes academic excellence, financial need, and a commitment to community service.
Application Requirements: Students must complete an online application, including an essay. Finalists will also be required to complete a phone interview.
Where to Apply: For the application and more details about the scholarship, visit the scholarship website.
Deadline: Varies
Award: $5,000
Description: The Bachrach Family Scholarship is awarded by the Association of University Programs in Health Administration to award students who have demonstrated academic excellence.
Eligibility: Applicants must be full-time students in a residential graduate program in healthcare administration and be entering their second year of graduate studies. All students that meet that criteria are welcome to apply, but preference will be given to students who are female, the first in their family to pursue graduate level education, and/or can demonstrate financial need.
Application Requirements: Applicants need to submit their cumulative GPA, a personal statement, a current resume, two letters of recommendation, information on other expected sources of financial support (other scholarships, grants, etc.), and official transcripts from all higher education institutions attended.
Where to Apply: The application link and more information is available on the AUPHA website.
Deadline: April 2
Scholarship Application Tips
Applying for scholarships can be a confusing, stressful experience. But it doesn’t have to be. The following tips can help make the scholarship application process go as smoothly as possible.
Do your research
The above scholarships all have different eligibility criteria, award amounts, and application requirements. Carefully review each scholarship page to make sure that you meet all of the eligibility requirements before you apply. If you are unsure whether or not you are eligible, reach out to the point of contact.
In addition to national scholarships, pay special attention to more niche awards. For example, local scholarships that require applicants to reside in a certain area, or scholarships looking for students with specific skills or experience that you possess. Focusing on these types of scholarships puts you in a smaller applicant pool and can boost your chances of being selected for the award.
Be specific
When applying for multiple scholarships, it can be tempting to simply copy and paste your answers or reuse your old essays. Although the applications may ask similar questions, it’s important to do some research into what makes each scholarship unique and include those details in your applications and essays.
It’s always best to mention something specific about each individual scholarship in the essay, cover letter or personal statement. This will show reviewers that you took the time to research and get a feel for their organization or program, and can help you stand out among more generic applications.
Plan ahead
As you read through the above scholarships, note the due dates for any that interest you. Give yourself plenty of time to complete the application and essays, to reach out to professors and employers for letters of recommendation, and obtain any additional documents.
Before you start an application, make a checklist (or use a provided list) of each component of the application. This will help you stay organized and avoid any surprises that will leave you rushing to gather all of the necessary materials. It can be extremely stressful, or sometimes impossible, to try to put an application together at the last minute.
Students interested in pursuing a career in senior care have many great scholarship opportunities. By taking the time to look into details and plan ahead, students can find the scholarships that are the best fit for them.