If you’re applying to medical school, you’ve definitely done your research. And you already know that you’re about to make a big investment—of time, effort, and, yes, money. Although the cost might seem daunting initially, you can find plenty of med school scholarships to help fund your education. There are some medical schools that offer full scholarships, as well as partial aid. In addition, there are many service-based and private scholarships to explore.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR MEDICAL STUDENTS AT AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF THE CARIBBEAN (AUC)
AUC offers several medical school scholarships based on different criteria: academics, leadership, even where you’re from. Students who choose AUC may qualify for thousands of dollars worth of medical school scholarships. Our Scholarship Committee reviews and awards scholarships every week.
Academic Achievement: Some of AUC’s medical scholarships are based on your academic achievement. If you did well on the MCAT and have a strong undergraduate GPA, you might qualify for the Trustees Academic Excellence Scholarship, the Dean's Academic Scholarship, or the Academic Merit Scholarship. These awards range from $5,000 to the full cost of your first semester tuition.
Leadership & Service: AUC also has med school scholarships for students who have shown strong leadership or service. The Medical Education Readiness Program (MERP) Advancer Award is for students who are academically strong and who demonstrated leadership to their peers during the MERP program. The Community Outreach Award, renewable for two semesters, is for students who have shown exceptional dedication to their communities, hospitals, or charities.
Geography: Some medical school scholarships are even based on geography. AUC offers a Medical Scholarships For Canadian Citizens, a scholarship for graduates of the Mississippi College M.S. Biology (Medical Sciences) program, and a scholarship for International Students coming from outside the U.S. or Canada.
Other Scholarships: If you have a work or volunteer history with an AUC graduate, you may qualify for the Alumni Heritage Scholarship. And if you’re a first generation medical student, you may qualify for the First Generation Scholarship for students who are striving to be a first-generation doctor.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS FOR MEDICAL STUDENTS
You can also explore options for medical school scholarships outside of AUC—like those for military service, or private awards.
Significant med school scholarships are available for students who are interested in military service. If you’re a U.S. citizen, the Army, Navy, or Air Force can help you pay for your medical degree through The F. Edward Hébert Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program. Qualifying students who enlist can receive full tuition for any accredited medical program, plus a generous monthly stipend and funds to cover books, equipment, and other fees.
The National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program (NHSCSP) offers med school scholarships to students who are pursuing primary care. In return for the scholarship, you commit to providing primary care health services in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). The commitment is usually two years of service per year of tuition scholarship. The NHSCSP covers tuition and eligible fees, provides a yearly payment for other educational costs, and offers monthly stipends to assist with your living expenses while you’re pursuing your medical degree.
Finally, websites like Scholarships.com keep curated lists of medical school scholarships. These awards are offered by schools, local organizations and personal providers, and can provide the financial support you need to help cover the costs of medical school.
Applying for medical school scholarships is an important part of the med school admissions process. Knowing that at least some of your costs are covered takes some of the burden off you so you can focus on your training and achieve your goal of becoming a physician!
Read more about financial aid and AUC’s scholarship options.
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