Foundation for Academic Nursing Launches New Scholarship to Support Advanced Practice Registered Nurses

The Foundation for Academic Nursing, established by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), is pleased to announce the launch of the new AACN Professional Nursing Scholarship to support graduate nursing students pursuing advanced practice careers. Funded through individual donations, the new program will award three $2,500 scholarships in its inaugural year to students pursuing doctoral degrees to become family nurse practitioners (FNPs).

The Professional Nursing Scholarship was established to help reduce financial barriers to graduate nursing education and support the future nursing workforce. Each year, the scholarship will focus on a different nursing specialty, allowing the Foundation to respond to emerging workforce needs. This year's focus on family nurse practitioners reflects the ongoing shortage of primary care providers, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Scholarship Eligibility and Application Requirements

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled in a family nurse practitioner doctoral program at an AACN member school.
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.5.
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Provide one academic reference from their current academic advisor.
• Provide a letter of recommendation from a graduate program director.
• Submit an essay (500-word maximum) explaining their professional goals as a family nurse practitioner and how pursuing an advanced nursing degree will help them achieve these goals.

For more information and to apply, visit the Foundation's webpage. Applications must be submitted by December 15, 2026.

Supporting the Next Generation of Nursing Professionals

The Professional Nursing Scholarship is the Foundation's first scholarship program funded through individual donations. Contributions of any amount help provide financial assistance to graduate nursing students preparing to serve communities across the country.

Individuals interested in supporting this scholarship may make a contribution in honor of or in memory of a colleague, mentor, loved one, or friend. To learn more about giving opportunities, visit the Foundation's donation page.