New scholarship supports future family nurse practitioners
The Foundation for Academic Nursing, established by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), has launched the AACN Professional Nursing Scholarship for graduate nursing students pursuing advanced practice careers.
In its inaugural year, the scholarship will award three $2,500 scholarships to students pursuing doctoral degrees to become family nurse practitioners (FNPs).
The scholarship aims to reduce financial barriers to graduate nursing education and support the future nursing workforce. Each year, the Foundation will focus on a different nursing specialty to address 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.
Eligibility and application requirements
Applicants must:
- Be currently enrolled in a doctoral family nurse practitioner program at an AACN member school. The University of Washington is an AACN member.
- 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 of no more than 500 words explaining their professional goals as a family nurse practitioner and how pursuing an advanced nursing degree will help them achieve those goals.
For more information and to apply, visit the Foundation for Academic Nursing webpage. Applications must be submitted by December 15, 2026.