Healthcare Scholars

The Foundation understands the importance of having a diverse nursing workforce to provide culturally competent care in our communities.

The Healthcare Scholars Program creates a regional pathway from local high schools to college to increase underrepresented groups in the nursing profession.

If you have any questions about our programs, please email us or call 1-855-422-3386.

Nursing Internship Program

Experience unique roles in nursing and cultivate professional and leadership skills during this 10-week program.

Learn More

Program overview

Through the Independence Blue Cross Foundation Healthcare Scholars Program, underrepresented students pursuing an undergraduate degree in nursing will receive full academic scholarships. Regional nursing schools will be awarded up to $35,000 per year for funding for tuition and fees for undergraduate nursing students pursuing an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN). Selected students will have the opportunity to participate in a learning community with other Independence Blue Cross Foundation Healthcare Scholars, as well as the Independence Blue Cross Foundation Nursing Internship Program.

Program requirements

  • School must ensure the annual cost of tuition and fees is covered for each participating scholar and secure other sources of funding to supplement Independence Blue Cross Foundation funding, if applicable.
  • School must select students from area high schools and provide academic support to ensure student success.
  • School must have existing pathway programs/partnerships with area high schools.

Eligible schools will be invited to apply for the Healthcare Scholars Program beginning in fall 2022. Academic institutions that meet all eligibility requirements can contact us for more information about the program.

Nurses CanTM campaign

Learn more about the Nurses CanTM campaign by following @ibxfdn on Twitter and Instagram, and check out our latest Journal of Change.

Eligibility criteria

  • School must be a current Nurses for Tomorrow grantee and offer an ADN or BSN degree program.
  • School must have an undergraduate nursing program that is fully approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing and accredited by a national or regional accrediting body.
  • School must be located in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, or Philadelphia counties.
  • School must adhere to the Independence Blue Cross Foundation's general eligibility guidelines.