PA School Scholarships

Physician assistants are qualified medical professionals who compose a critical part of the healthcare workforce. While physician assistants aren't doctors in the literal sense, PAs perform many of the functions traditionally offered by medical doctors, including diagnosing, treating, and examining patients.

In order to become a physician assistant, the first step is to graduate from an accredited PA program and become officially licensed through the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam. Physician assistant programs usually range from two to three years in length and are typically more affordable than medical school. However, many prospective physician assistants may still find the cost of attending PA school a significant barrier to progressing in their careers.

PA school scholarships can empower PA students to become successful physician assistants and gain the medical expertise to serve communities in need. Various scholarships are available for prospective PAs, including military scholarships and scholarships sponsored by individuals on Bold.org.

We've compiled an overview of the best PA school scholarships. In particular, we've highlighted various PA school scholarships offered by the military and the PA Foundation, a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting physician assistants and PA students. We've also shined the spotlight on notable scholarship opportunities offered by generous donors on Bold.org to make PA programs more accessible for students of diverse backgrounds.

Don't forget to create a Bold.org profile to access these and hundreds of other scholarships for PA students on our scholarship search engine.

Best Physician Assistant Scholarships

Looking to become a Physician Assistant? There are some fantastic scholarships out there just for you! Whether you're just getting started or already in the middle of your studies, check out these opportunities to give your career a boost.

Bold.org Healthcare Scholarships

As a future Physician Assistant, you know the importance of quality healthcare. Bold.org offers a variety of healthcare scholarships that can help ease the financial burden of your education. These scholarships are a great way to get support as you work toward making a difference in patient care and healthcare services.

Bold.org Public Health Scholarships

Physician Assistants play a crucial role in public health, and Bold.org Public Health Scholarships can help you make an even bigger impact. These scholarships are for students committed to addressing public health challenges and promoting wellness. If you're pursuing a degree that emphasizes public health, these scholarships can help provide the financial assistance you need.

Bold.org Scholarships by State

Did you know there are scholarships tailored specifically for Physician Assistant students in your state? Bold.org's Scholarships by State recognize local talent and provide financial support based on residency. This is a fantastic way to find funding that's just for you, helping you manage your educational expenses while you focus on your studies.

Bold.org Master's Degree Scholarships

Planning to advance your education with a master's degree in Physician Assistant studies? Bold.org's Master's Degree Scholarships can help make that goal a reality. These scholarships are designed to reduce the financial strain of graduate school, allowing you to concentrate on becoming a highly skilled PA. Apply today and get the support you need for your advanced education!

Also, check out more blog posts on our Bold.org Scholarship Blog to learn more about medical school scholarships and student loans that can help you pay for PA school.

Full Ride Scholarships for PA Students

A number of PA school scholarships offered by the United States government cover the full cost of attending PA school, including tuition, fees, and books. Some even offer a living stipend to help prospective PAs pay for living expenses while attending school.

In order to receive full-tuition scholarships for PA school, students must commit to working as professional physician assistants in a designated area after graduation. As a result, these scholarships can be great options that encourage young PA students to participate in service leadership and enable students to graduate completely debt-free.

National Health Service Corps

The National Health Service Corps provides full-tuition scholarships for PA students and a monthly stipend in exchange for two years of service in a medically underserved area following graduation. PA students may work in public or nonprofit private medical facilities, geographic areas with a shortage of providers, or specific populations such as low-income communities or migrant populations.

Serving in the National Health Service Corps can be a rewarding opportunity for PA students to learn about primary care and the healthcare system while providing medical services to those in need. Through the two years of service, young physician assistants can gain invaluable work experience and real-life skills that will serve them well in their future careers.

Veterans Affairs Scholarship

The Veterans Affairs Scholarship is another full-tuition scholarship for PA students that covers the full cost of tuition and provides an annual book stipend and a monthly living stipend to scholarship winners.

Those selected to receive this scholarship must commit to working at an underserved Veterans Affairs location for the length of time that they received the scholarship. So, if you receive the scholarship for the full two to three years of PA school, you'll be required to work at a VA for two to three years thereafter.

Military veterans and students in their final one to two years of education are given preference for their scholarships. As a result, you'll be a more competitive PA student applicant for the Veterans Affairs Scholarship if you apply before your final year in PA school.

Air Force and Navy Health Professions Scholarship Programs

The Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program and the Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program both cover the full cost of tuition, educational fees, and books and supplies. They also provide a monthly living stipend to help you pay for the cost of living during your time in PA school.

In exchange, scholarship recipients commit to serving in active duty for the length of time that they receive the scholarship. While working for the navy or air force, participants in the program will have the opportunity to provide clinical care, perform research, and teach as part of a team of medical providers.

PA Foundation Scholarships

The PA Foundation awards many prestigious scholarships for PA students each year as the philanthropic arm of the American Association of Physician Assistants.

In order to apply for a PA Foundation Scholarship, students must be members of the American Association of Physician Assistants and attend an ARC-PA-accredited program. Additionally, applicants should have successfully completed at least one term of PA studies and be in good academic standing. You must also be enrolled in PA school during the application cycle, which runs from April to June.

The PA Foundation Scholarship

The organization's flagship award awards $1,000 to a handful of PA students each year. Any eligible PA students who meet the above criteria are eligible to apply.

AAPA Rural Caucus Scholarship

PA students who come from rural areas and are planning on working as medical professionals in rural areas after graduating are eligible to apply for the AAPA Rural Caucus Scholarship. Two winners are awarded $2,000 each.

AAPA Past Presidents Scholarship

The AAPA Past Presidents Scholarship provides scholarship awards to PA students who demonstrate service leadership through a community health organization or their PA program. Scholarship award recipients receive $1,000 each for this award.

NCCPA Endowed Scholarship

The NCCPA Endowed Scholarship awards scholarship money to students who are part of a historically marginalized group. Students who identify as Black, Latinx, Indigenous or Native American, Asian American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, LGBTQ+, and/or a person with a disability are eligible to apply.

Students who come from economically disadvantaged or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds can also apply for this scholarship. For example, a PA student who comes from a high school with low SAT scores and below-average state test results or a household with an annual income below a low-income threshold is eligible.

Each scholarship recipient is awarded $2,000 for this PA Foundation scholarship.

Ron Pace Memorial Scholarship

The Ron Pace Memorial Scholarship honors the memory of Ron Pace, a Navy veteran who served as the president of the Florida Academy of Physician Assistants and previously received the AAPA Outstanding PA of the Year Award.

To apply for this scholarship, PA students must be attending a PA program in Florida and are children or dependents of a veteran. Scholarship recipients receive $1,000 for this award.

How to Apply for PA School Scholarships

Step 1: Research and Identify Potential Scholarships

Start by researching different scholarships specifically tailored for physician assistant (PA) students. Look for scholarships offered by professional organizations, educational institutions, philanthropic foundations, and government agencies.

For example, the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) offers several scholarships each year to support aspiring PAs in their educational journey. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to the PA profession. Additionally, many universities and colleges have their own scholarship programs for PA students, so explore those opportunities as well.

Step 2: Review Eligibility Criteria

Thoroughly review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship you are considering. Pay close attention to factors like GPA requirements, financial need, extracurricular activities, and essay requirements.

For instance, some scholarships may require a minimum GPA of 3.5, while others may prioritize financial need and community involvement. By understanding the specific eligibility criteria, you can focus your efforts on scholarships that align with your strengths and qualifications.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Once you have identified the scholarships you want to apply for, gather all the necessary documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and any other supporting materials required.

It's important to request your transcripts well in advance to ensure they arrive on time. Reach out to professors, advisors, or healthcare professionals who can provide strong letters of recommendation that highlight your skills, dedication, and potential as a future PA. Additionally, take the time to craft a compelling personal statement that showcases your unique experiences and motivations for pursuing a career in the PA field.

Step 4: Prepare a Stellar Personal Statement

A well-crafted personal statement can significantly impact your chances of securing a scholarship. Be sure to highlight your passion for the physician assistant profession, your academic achievements, and any relevant experiences that make you stand out from other applicants.

Consider sharing anecdotes that demonstrate your commitment to patient care, your ability to work on a team, and your dedication to lifelong learning. Use this opportunity to showcase your personality and convey your genuine enthusiasm for becoming a PA. Remember to proofread your personal statement carefully and seek feedback from mentors or writing centers to ensure it is polished and impactful.

Step 5: Submit Your Applications

Follow the specified instructions for each scholarship and submit your applications before the deadlines. Double-check that all required documents are included and that you have completed each application accurately.

Keep track of the deadlines for each scholarship and create a timeline to ensure you have enough time to complete each application thoroughly. It's always a good idea to submit your applications well in advance to avoid any last-minute technical issues or unforeseen circumstances.

Tips for Winning PA School Scholarships

Competition for PA school scholarships can be fierce, but with the right strategies, you can increase your chances of securing financial aid. Consider the following tips:

Tip 1: Start Early

Don't wait until the last minute to start researching and applying for scholarships. Begin the process as soon as possible to maximize your opportunities.

One effective way to kickstart your scholarship search is by creating a detailed timeline that outlines deadlines, requirements, and action steps. This proactive approach helps you stay organized and ensures you don't miss out on any potential funding opportunities.

Tip 2: Tailor Your Applications

Customize your scholarship applications to align with the specific requirements and mission of each scholarship. Highlight the unique qualities and experiences that make you a deserving candidate.

Scholarship committees are looking for candidates who not only meet the criteria but also demonstrate a genuine passion for the PA profession. By tailoring your applications to showcase your individual strengths and aspirations, you increase your chances of standing out among the pool of applicants.

Tip 3: Seek Out Local Scholarships

Don't overlook local scholarships offered by community organizations, businesses, or foundations in your area. These scholarships often have fewer applicants, increasing your chances of success.

Local scholarships not only provide financial support but also offer a unique opportunity to connect with and give back to your community. By exploring these lesser-known funding options, you diversify your scholarship portfolio and strengthen your ties to the local healthcare network.

Tip 4: Don't Neglect the Essay

Put time and effort into crafting compelling and well-written essays. Use personal anecdotes and examples to showcase your passion for the physician assistant profession and your future goals.

When crafting your scholarship essays, think of them as a platform to share your story and aspirations with the selection committee. By weaving together personal experiences, academic achievements, and career goals, you create a narrative that resonates with the readers and sets you apart as a deserving candidate for financial support.

Additional Resources for PA Students

American Academy of Physician Associates

Student members of the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) have access to an invaluable resource in the form of the PA Foundation scholarships. By joining AAPA, students not only become part of a distinguished professional organization and gain access to financial assistance but also access educational materials, professional development opportunities, career services, advocacy, discounts, and a supportive community.

National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants

The NCCPA provides information about certification requirements, practice exams, and continuing medical education (CME) resources for PA students and professionals.

Bureau of Health Workforce

BHW supports the education and training of health professionals, including PAs, through scholarships, loan repayment programs, and grants. They focus on increasing access to care in underserved areas.