Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) for College Students

The Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) provides financial assistance to students pursuing graduate education in medical, dental, optometry, nursing, and veterinary care. The military-funded scholarship offers full tuition, a monthly stipend, and guaranteed job placement after graduation. It’s a smart option for future doctors, dentists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who want to advance their careers while serving in the military.

How the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) Works 

HPSP pays full tuition and required fees for graduate-level health profession programs, along with a monthly stipend (over $2,000) and an annual allowance for books and supplies. In exchange, scholarship recipients must commit to one year of active-duty military service for each year of scholarship support (with a minimum service obligation of three years).

Eligible students must be U.S. citizens accepted into an accredited medical, dental, nursing, optometry, psychology, or veterinary program. Students can submit an online application, along with other required materials, such as academic verification, references, a resume, transcripts, a DD214, and an SF50. After acceptance, the student’s service branch will contact their school and start paying for tuition. Upon graduation, HPSP recipients are commissioned as officers and begin active-duty service as healthcare professionals in the Army, Navy, or Air Force.

Benefits of Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) 

Top benefits for the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP):

• Full tuition coverage for medical or health-related graduate programs.
• Monthly stipend (over $2,000/month) for living expenses.
• Signing bonus for select branches (up to $20,000).
• Paid books, equipment, and fees.
• Exemption from paying malpractice insurance coverage.
• Officer commission upon graduation.
• Hands-on leadership and clinical experience.
• Guaranteed job placement in a military healthcare setting after graduation.
• No student debt accrual from tuition after completing service obligation.

Is the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) Right for You? 

If you’re a college student in a health-related field and committed to serving on active duty in the military, HPSP could be a great fit. This program is ideal for students pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, nursing, veterinary science, or similar professions who seek a debt-free education, structured training, and guaranteed employment upon graduation. It’s suitable for those who value leadership, public service, and are ready to meet the responsibilities of becoming a commissioned officer in the Army, Navy, or Air Force.

How to Apply for the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) 

To apply for HPSP benefits, you must be a U.S. citizen accepted to or enrolled in an accredited health professions graduate program and willing to serve on active duty. You can start the process by contacting a healthcare recruiter for the Army, Navy, or Air Force—each branch has its own HPSP. 

The process includes submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, proof of acceptance, and completing a physical exam. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis; however, spots are very limited. Increase your chances of getting accepted by applying early online or through your chosen branch’s recruitment office.

HSP FAQs

Q: Does the Health Professions Scholarship Program pay for college?
A: Yes, HPSP pays full tuition for eligible health profession graduate programs.

Q: Can I choose which military branch I join with HPSP?
A: Yes, you can apply separately through the Army, Navy, or Air Force, depending on your preferences and career goals.

Q: Does HPSP cover living expenses?
A: Students receive a monthly stipend (around $2,000) and additional funding for books and fees.