Why Nursing Scholarships Matter

Scholarships provide crucial financial support, reducing tuition burdens and enabling students to focus on their studies and clinical placements. For many, scholarships also open doors to leadership training, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement pathways within healthcare organisations and professional associations.

Types of Nursing Scholarships in Australia

1. Government-Funded Scholarships

Australia’s federal and state governments fund multiple scholarship programs to strengthen the nursing and midwifery workforce, particularly in high-demand sectors such as aged care and primary health.

Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship Program

• Supports postgraduate nurses and midwives pursuing graduate certificates, diplomas, or master’s degrees.

• For 2024–25, 175 scholarships are offered in each category, increasing to 250 annually by 2026–27.

• Designed to build a skilled workforce in primary care and aged care settings by enhancing qualifications for nurse practitioners and endorsed midwives.

Aged Care Nursing Scholarship Program

• Targets nurses employed in aged care facilities to encourage advanced study and professional development.

• Benefits include tuition funding, membership in the Australian College of Nurse Practitioners, mentorship opportunities, clinical resources, and cultural safety training.

• Applicants must typically be Australian citizens or permanent residents working in aged care.

2. Institutional Scholarships

Many universities and nursing organisations provide scholarships to support academic excellence, leadership development, and specialised training.

Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Foundation Scholarships

• The ACN Foundation offers a wide range of scholarships for registered nurses pursuing postgraduate education.

• For 2025, examples include:

  • $5,500 scholarship for community nursing postgraduate studies at Queensland University of Technology.

  • $10,000 scholarship for master’s or doctorate programs in nursing leadership or specialist fields.

• Leadership scholarships are also available for ACN members aiming for senior clinical or managerial roles.

Edith Cavell Trust Scholarship

• Managed by the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association.

• Open to members pursuing nursing or midwifery qualifications, research projects, or clinical education programs.

• Applications for 2026 studies open from 1 May to 31 July 2025.

• Covers initial registration courses, postgraduate studies, and research approved by the scholarship trustees.

MooGoo Postgraduate Cancer Nursing Scholarship

• Offered in partnership with MooGoo Skin Care and the Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA).

• Provides three scholarships of $10,000 each for postgraduate cancer nursing studies.

• Includes CNSA membership and complimentary registration for the annual congress.

• Requires an eligibility-based application and submission of a written essay outlining professional goals and motivation.

3. Private and Industry-Sponsored Scholarships

Professional associations, foundations, and corporate partners fund additional scholarships to support nursing education and workforce development.

• Professional associations such as the Australian College of Nurse Practitioners and CNSA provide scholarships for specialty training.

• Charitable foundations fund education for underrepresented groups or those pursuing specific areas such as rural health or mental health nursing.

• Corporate partners collaborate with nursing organisations to sponsor scholarships and provide professional development benefits, networking opportunities, and mentorship.

How to Apply for Nursing Scholarships

Understanding Eligibility

While eligibility criteria differ across scholarships, common requirements include:

• Australian citizenship or permanent residency.

• Enrollment or acceptance into an accredited nursing or midwifery program.

• Membership in relevant professional associations (for association-based scholarships).

• Commitment to specific fields such as aged care, oncology, or primary care.

• Strong academic performance or demonstrated financial need.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Research Scholarship Opportunities

   • Identify scholarships suited to your study level, specialty, and career goals.

   • Use official government websites, university portals, and professional association pages for the latest information.

2. Prepare Required Documents

   • Documents may include transcripts, proof of enrollment, CV, English proficiency certificates, references, and citizenship evidence.

3. Complete Application Forms

   • Many applications are submitted online. Follow instructions carefully and ensure all sections are filled out accurately.

4. Write Personal Statements or Essays

   • Outline your goals, career aspirations, relevant experience, and reasons for pursuing your chosen nursing specialty.

5. Submit Before Deadlines

   • Deadlines vary across programs. For example:

     • Edith Cavell Trust Scholarship closes 31 July 2025 for 2026 studies.

     • MooGoo Postgraduate Cancer Nursing Scholarship closes 11 April 2025.

6. Await Notification

   • Successful applicants are usually informed via email and, in some cases, are formally announced at annual association events or conferences.

Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

Start researching and preparing your applications 6–12 months before deadlines.
Tailor each application to the scholarship’s goals and selection criteria.
Seek feedback from academic mentors or supervisors on your personal statements.
Ensure supporting documents are current and presented professionally.
Keep detailed records of submitted applications and track progress for follow-ups.

Where to Find Reliable Information

• Government websites:

  • Australian Department of Health and Aged Care: Lists national scholarship programs such as the Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship Program.

  • State and territory health department websites for region-specific scholarships.

• Professional associations:

  • Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Foundation

  • Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA)

  • Australian College of Nurse Practitioners (ACNP)

  • NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA)

• University scholarship portals:

  • Most universities maintain scholarship directories listing eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and contact information.

• Additional resources:

  • Contact university admissions or scholarship offices directly.

  • Speak with nursing program coordinators for tailored guidance.

  • Attend professional development events where scholarship information is often shared.

Real Stories: Impact of Nursing Scholarships

Past recipients of scholarships such as the MooGoo Postgraduate Cancer Nursing Scholarship have advanced to specialist oncology nursing roles, contributed to innovative patient care models, and undertaken leadership positions in cancer care settings. Similarly, ACN Foundation scholarship recipients often progress into community nursing leadership and research roles, shaping the future of Australian healthcare.

Challenges and Solutions

• High competition: Increase your chances by applying to multiple scholarships and customising each application.

• Complex application processes: Start early, stay organised, and seek mentor support to navigate requirements.

• Eligibility uncertainties: Contact scholarship coordinators directly for clarification on criteria.

Alternative Support Options

If scholarship funding does not cover all costs, consider:

• Government student loans and financial aid.

• University bursaries or emergency hardship grants.

• Employer-sponsored professional development funding.

• Peer mentoring and networking programs within professional associations.

Conclusion

Pursuing a nursing qualification in Australia is an investment not only in your own career but also in the health and wellbeing of communities nationwide. With a diverse range of government, institutional, and private scholarships available in 2025, aspiring nurses have more opportunities than ever to access funding, develop leadership skills, and gain the expertise needed for a meaningful and impactful healthcare career. By staying informed, preparing thoroughly, and applying strategically, you can build the foundation for success in Australia’s growing nursing workforce.