NSCDA National American Indian Medical Scholarship Award Program Grant

The NSCDA National American Indian Medical Scholarship Award Program provides scholarships to students of American Indian descent, originally focusing on women in nursing. Launched in 1928, the program now supports males and various health-related fields. Eligible applicants must demonstrate tribal enrollment or ancestry, maintain academic standing, and have a commitment to serving their communities. The scholarship awards $1,500 each semester for tuition and academic expenses, helping students fulfill their educational and career goals.

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NSCDA National American Indian Medical Scholarship Award Program
The American Indian Medical Scholarship Award Program (formerly known as American Indian Nurse Scholarship Award Program) was started by the Pennsylvania Society in 1928 and made a national project by the NSCDA in the 1930s to give students of American Indian descent the opportunity to pursue careers in nursing.
The students are expected to return to work among their people to help improve health care. Some students work on reservations, and others find employment in hospitals in areas largely populated by American Indians. Intended originally to benefit females only, the program has expanded to include males and the career goals now include not only nursing careers, but jobs in health care and health education, as well.
The current goal is to grant a $1,500 scholarship each semester, as long as the student remains in academic good standing. The scholarship money is restricted to tuition and specific academic expenses. To meet the financial demands of their education, many students seek additional government grants and subsidies and maintain part-time jobs.

Eligibility

1/4 American Indian, enrolled in a tribe. If not enrolled, the student will be considered if he or she can prove direct tribal ancestry.A high school graduate or have equivalent educationEnrolled in an accredited schoolEnrolled in the nursing program, having achieved good scholastic standing in pre-nursing; or, enrolled in a health care or health education programExpected to graduate two years after enrollment if in an Associate Degree programExpected to graduate in four years if pursuing a B.S.Post graduate students are also eligibleMaintaining the scholastic average required by the schoolRecommended by their counselor, teacher or other school officialIn need of financial assistanceNot receiving an Indian Health Service ScholarshipShould have a career goal directly related to the needs of the Indian people