Scholarship Options for RN to BSN Nurses

With a growing demand for bachelor’s-educated nurses, nurses can stand out by earning their BSN. However, programs can be costly. Scholarships help RNs complete their degree affordably.

This guide outlines major scholarship sources specific to nurses advancing their education. By exploring options, you’ll feel empowered to finance your career goals without debt burdens.

Let’s explore pathways for RNs seeking scholarships to achieve their BSN!

Defining an RN to BSN Program

RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programs allow associate-degree or diploma-educated RNs to earn their bachelor’s part- or full-time without repeating core nursing courses.

Most programs are fully online, classroom-based part-time, or accelerated. Students build on clinical experience through leadership, community health and research courses rounding out their education.

Completing a BSN is crucial – about 80% of RN jobs now require one within 2 years of hire.

University Scholarship Programs

Research scholarships directly through desired BSN programs:

• State Schools – Many offer generous in-state tuition rate discounts for nurses returning to school.
• Community College Partnerships – Transfer scholarships for ADN alumni continuing their degree.
• Academic Merit Awards – Financial aid based on prior grades, not need-based criteria.

Target any special incentives schools extend to nurse careerists.

Private Scholarships for RN-BSN Students

National foundations and associations dedicate funding specifically for RNs upgrading their degree:

• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Lillian Wald Scholarship (up to $3,000/yr)
• MMARN MaryAnn Bailey Scholarship Program ($1,000 – $5,000)
• NLN Alene Moritz RN to BSN Scholarship ($1,000 – $5,000)
• QSEN Institute Scholarship Program ($1,000-$5,000)
• AACN Foundation Scholarships (up to $10,000)

Research application deadlines starting 12 months ahead.

Employer Tuition Assistance Programs

Incentivizing career development, hospitals commonly help RNs further their education:

• Tuition Reimbursement – Repayment of tuition/fees upon completing semesters with passing grades.
• Direct Payment Plans – Facilities pay schools directly capping employee costs.
• Online Program Discounts – Subsidized rates for degree programs tailored for busy nurses.

Loyal tenure and full shifts may qualify nurses for maximum assistance amounts.

Military & Veterans Scholarship Resources

While serving, consider the Army’s Specialized Training Assistance Program (STAP).

Afterwards, tap education benefits from:

• Post-9/11 GI Bill – Covers most public school tuition + housing stipend over 36 months.
• Yellow Ribbon Program – Select private schools covered at high tuition rates.
• Vocational Rehab Program – For service-connected disability education aid.

Military experience opens unique RN-BSN funding doors.

Additional Considerations

Nurses should strategically combine awards:

• Search engines match profiles to undiscovered options perfectly.
• NursingAssistant.org details need-based financial aid packages.
• Flexible work+school arrangements utilizing tuition repayment benefits.
• Approaching professional associations and unions for specialty awards.
• Minimize living costs by commuting, scheduling classes efficiently.

Layer all viable offerings to maximize cost-savings pursuing your BSN.

In Summary

RN to BSN scholarships remove barriers for experienced nurses enhancing their credentials. Through university, employer, national and veteran programs thoroughly researched 12 months in advance, motivated applicants secure funding achieving career goals affordably.

Now equipped to finance your degree, feel empowered in boosting qualifications without debt while meeting patient needs at an advanced level. Your journey starts here – let the scholarship search begin!