Find Nursing Scholarships and Grants for LPN Program

Olivia Chen, NP
August 19, 2025
Paying for an LPN program can be a challenge, but scholarships and grants are excellent ways to reduce the financial burden. Unlike loans, these funds don’t need to be repaid, making them one of the smartest options for students pursuing nursing. Scholarships may be awarded directly by nursing schools or through private organizations, churches, nonprofits, or professional associations, and they can cover part or even all of your tuition. Government grants and programs like FAFSA also open the door to additional aid opportunities. Because each scholarship has unique requirements—such as essays, transcripts, or community involvement—it’s important to plan ahead and apply early. With so many options available, taking the time to research, prepare, and protect yourself from scams can make the path to becoming an LPN far more affordable and less stressful.
Students should be cautious when applying for scholarships online, as fraudulent offers sometimes ask for money or personal banking details. Always research the organization and, when in doubt, check with your college for guidance. Most legitimate scholarships require a well-written essay about your goals as an LPN and only a small number of applicants are selected. Deadlines are strict, so apply early to improve your chances—especially for competitive LPN-to-RN scholarships, which often have additional requirements.
Top Scholarships & Grants
Scholarship | Amount | Highlights | Key Requirement |
---|---|---|---|
A Nurse I Am (Cherokee) | $2,000 | Open to accredited nursing students | Essay after watching documentary |
NBNA Scholarships | $1,000–$6,000 | For NBNA members in LPN–doctoral programs | Essays, transcripts, recommendations |
After College – AACN Fund | $2,500 | Prioritizes RN-to-BSN/MSN and nurse educators | Quarterly deadlines |
ACLS Medical Training | $1,000 | Nursing/healthcare students | 600–1000 word essay |
Florida Nurses Foundation | Varies | Multiple annual awards | Application and references |
AHNA Research Grant | $5,000 | Doctoral candidates researching nursing | Proposal + annual reports |
NADONA – Stephanie Carroll | Varies | Long-term care nursing focus | 2-year service commitment |
ANA Minority Fellowships | Varies | Doctoral students in mental health | Must hold ANCC certification |
ASHA School Nursing | $250 | Current ASHA members in nursing/health roles | GPA 3.0+, recommendation letters |
FAFSA Grants | Varies | Based on FAFSA results | U.S. citizenship, accredited enrollment |
FAFSA and Federal Aid
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the main way to access nursing scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. It’s free to complete and can be submitted online, by mail, or through a paper request. Online applications are processed in 3–5 days; paper forms take longer.
Eligibility basics: students must have a high school diploma or GED, be U.S. citizens (or eligible residents), maintain good academic standing, and be enrolled in an accredited LPN program. Male students ages 18–25 must also be registered with Selective Service.
When applying, have your Social Security number, income records, and financial documents ready. Dependent students must also provide parent information. After processing, you’ll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) outlining eligibility and Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Corrections can be made online, and schools listed on your FAFSA will send financial aid offers.