NEF Nursing Scholarship 2025-2026 — Apply Now Before February 2, 2026

Are you a passionate registered nurse (RN) dreaming of advancing your education through a Master’s or Doctoral program in nursing? The NEF Nursing Scholarship 2025–2026 is now open for applications — offering financial assistance to nurses pursuing graduate-level studies in accredited nursing schools across the United States.

🗓 Application Deadline

February 2, 2026

Don’t wait until the last minute — applicants are encouraged to complete all requirements before the deadline to ensure full consideration.

🎯 About the NEF Nursing Scholarship

The Nurses Educational Funds (NEF) Scholarship is one of the most prestigious privately funded scholarships designed to support nurse leaders, researchers, educators, and advanced clinicians. The program aims to empower the next generation of nurses who will impact healthcare through innovation, leadership, and compassion.

Each year, NEF awards numerous scholarships directly to qualified nursing students enrolled in accredited graduate programs. Awards typically range from partial tuition assistance to significant financial support that helps cover research, books, and study-related expenses.

🧑‍⚕️ Who Can Apply?

The NEF Nursing Scholarship is open to outstanding students who meet the following general eligibility criteria:

General Requirements

• Must hold a current and valid Registered Nurse (RN) license within the United States.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Must be a member of a recognized national nursing organization or professional association.
• Must be enrolled (full-time or part-time) in a nationally accredited Master’s, Doctoral, or BSN-to-Doctoral nursing program.
• Must have at least two semesters remaining after the scholarship is awarded.

Academic Requirements

• Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA): 3.6 or higher.
• Completion of a minimum number of graded graduate-level credits (not pass/fail).
• Strong record of leadership, professional involvement, and academic achievement.

🪶 Eligible Study Levels

The NEF Scholarship supports several categories of graduate study:

Master’s in Nursing (MSN)

For registered nurses pursuing advanced clinical practice, nursing education, leadership, or informatics. Applicants must have completed at least 12 graduate-level credits and show strong academic performance.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

For nurses focusing on clinical practice and healthcare leadership. Applicants should demonstrate advanced expertise in evidence-based practice and healthcare system improvement.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

For those pursuing research and teaching careers in academia or clinical research. Applicants must provide a clear statement of purpose outlining how their research will contribute to the advancement of nursing science.

Accelerated BSN-to-Doctoral Pathways

For students enrolled in accelerated doctoral programs without an intermediate master’s degree. These applicants must have completed at least 40 graded credits toward their degree.

🧾 Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents:

• A personal statement or essay (750–850 words) describing professional goals, leadership experience, and contribution to the nursing profession.
• Three recommendation letters — from an academic mentor, a professional supervisor, and a nursing leader who can attest to your potential.
• Official graduate transcripts showing academic performance.
• Proof of professional membership and current RN licensure.

🖥 How to Apply

1. Visit the official application portal (available each year from October 1).
2. Create an applicant profile and complete all required fields.
3. Upload all documents — transcripts, essay, and references — before the deadline.
4. Submit the completed form and verify all entries before final submission.

After submission, selected candidates may be contacted for additional information or interviews.

💡 Tips for a Successful Application

• Start early — recommendation letters and transcripts can take time to process.
• Focus your essay on your professional mission and impact on nursing.
• Choose referees who know your work personally and can highlight your leadership and commitment.
• Review all eligibility requirements carefully before applying.
• Maintain professionalism — attention to detail matters!

🌍 Why Apply for the NEF Nursing Scholarship?

This scholarship is more than just financial aid — it’s an investment in your nursing career, leadership, and research potential. Recipients join a network of accomplished nurse scholars who influence healthcare policy, education, and patient outcomes across the nation.

📅 Key Dates to Remember

✉ Contact for Inquiries

For further assistance or technical support during the application process, applicants can reach the program’s scholarship team via the official contact email provided on the application portal.

🏁 Final Thoughts

The NEF Nursing Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for nurses committed to advancing their education and leadership in healthcare. If you are ready to take your nursing journey to the next level, this is your moment to apply — and make your mark on the future of healthcare.

Apply Now: https://application.n-e-f.org/sign-in