Healthcare Scholarships for HS students

Thinking about a healthcare career? Awesome! You’re already on a path to helping others. Tons of scholarships are available to help you pay for your education, whether you want an associate’s degree or are planning for med school. Don’t miss out on free money — it makes a huge difference.

There’s all kinds of scholarships for future healthcare workers, from nurses and doctors to technicians, therapists, and more. Some scholarships reward you for community service, unique hobbies, or specific experiences, while others focus on your goals and how you’ll use your degree. 

While many scholarships target students pursuing graduate and medical degrees, that doesn't mean you should wait to start your scholarship search. Here are 12 scholarships that high school seniors should explore now.

Amber D. Hudson Memorial Scholarship

Amount: $1,500

Deadline: June

This memorial scholarship is open to female students pursuing a career as a certified nutritionist. Submit a short essay about how you would help patients and families understand the impact of good nutrition on their overall health. Learn more

AvaCare Medical Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: December

Students pursuing a career in medicine, nursing, dentistry, and other health-related careers can apply for this project-based scholarship. Win this scholarship by submitting the best essay, video, or image showing an act of kindness that inspired you. Learn more

DAR Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship

Amount: $5,000

Deadline: January

The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) offers several health-related scholarships, including one for students pursuing programs in occupational therapy. To qualify, you must show financial need, have an acceptance letter, and be accepted into an art, music, or physical therapy program. Learn more

Explore Medical Careers Scholarship

Amount: $500 - $1,500

Deadline: December

Applying for this essay-based scholarship requires writing a 1000+ word essay titled “How to remedy the healthcare industry in the United States and provide affordable care.” First-, second-, and third-place essay submissions receive $1,500, $1,000, and $500 scholarships. Learn more

For a Bright Future Healthcare Scholarship

Amount: Varies

Deadline: May

High school seniors accepted into a healthcare program can apply for this essay-based scholarship. You must demonstrate financial need and involvement in community service, extracurricular activities, and past employment or internships. Learn more

Headbang For Science Scholarship

Amount: Three scholarships, each worth $11,066

Deadline: June

If you have a passion for healthcare — and heavy metal music — this scholarship is for you! Submit five short essay responses discussing your academic/professional goals, financial circumstances, and the impact of heavy metal music on your life. Learn more

Michael Moody Fitness Scholarship

Amount: $1,500

Deadline: August

This fitness scholarship is open to high school seniors pursuing various health-related degrees, from personal training and sports and recreation management to biology and nursing. This scholarship is only open to the first 1,000 applicants, so submit your application early! Learn more

Norman C. Nelson IV Memorial Scholarship

Amount: Two scholarships, each worth $2,000

Deadline: May

This scholarship is only open to high school seniors with financial need and maintaining a 3.0 or higher GPA. To qualify, submit an essay explaining what has inspired you to pursue a healthcare career. Learn more

Pro-Care Medical Track Scholarship

Amount: $500

Deadline: July

If you’re considering a career as a doctor, nurse, chiropractor, or other medical specialist, check out this essay-based scholarship. You must maintain a 3.5 GPA and submit two essays: one on your motivation and the other on how education will shape your healthcare career. Learn more

Save a Life Scholarship

Amount: $1,500

Deadline: Spring/Fall

The American Academy of CPR and First Aid awards this scholarship biannually to students pursuing various health-related careers, including mental health, administrative roles, and non-profit work. You must submit a 750-1,000 word essay outlining your goals, inspirations, and plans in healthcare. Learn more

Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) Foundation Sonography Student Scholarships

Amount: $2,500

Deadline: June/December

If you’re a member of the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, you can apply for this essay-based scholarship by submitting three short essays. These essays should outline your goals, achievements, and reasons for wanting to become a sonographer. Learn more

Washington State Opportunity Scholarship Career and Technical Scholarship

Amount: Varies

Deadline: April

If you’re a Washington state student with financial need and want to attend community or technical college, check out this scholarship. Complete the FAFSA or WASFA (the Washington Application for State Financial Aid) to qualify. Learn more

This list represents just a sampling of scholarship programs for students considering a medical career. Looking for more options? Check out these healthcare scholarship lists from Bold.org, Scholarships.com, and Unigo. If you've already been accepted to a program, see if your school offers scholarship aid — and research location-based scholarships, too.

Want more tips and insights? Check out our full Guide to Your Future In Healthcare here.