5 Medical School Scholarships for Minorities

Last Updated on January 16, 2024 by Lori Pace

There are medical school scholarships available for minorities, which allow African Americans and other minorities to obtain the funds they need to go to medical school.

African American, Smiling, Face, African, Portrait
School scholarships allow African Americans and other minorities to go to medical school.

Medical School Scholarships for Minorities

A medical school is a great choice. The long-term benefits are well worth the effort, regardless of whether you want to be a doctor or a surgeon. It’s a privilege and a tremendous experience. Medical school can also be costly. Many students go to medical school but many end up with student loans. It is especially difficult for minorities. Medical school grants can help them realize their dreams.

Medical School Grants for Minorities – Paying for Medical School

The average cost of medical school is between $40K and $50K per year. Students are offered small to no financial aid unless they can receive a scholarship or grant. In the United States, minorities tend to be underrepresented at medical schools. However, there are programs that can increase their enrollment.

Grants and scholarships are available to help finance a medical school education. These programs can be very competitive so it is important to plan. Many organizations offer grants to minority medical students.

The Ultimate List of Medical School Grants for Minorities

Medical school students face high financial and academic stakes. So, minorities receive medical school grants to help them increase their chance at education. Here is a list of grants that can help with the financial aspects of education.

The American Indian Graduate Center, Inc. (AIGC)

Graduate Students - American Indian Graduate Center

The AIGC to American Indian or Native Alaskan offers medical students many scholarships, fellowships, and grants. Moreover, the Gerald Peet Fellowship is available to qualified applicants enrolled in medical school. In short, the fellowship typically provides $1,000 to $5,000 depending on financial need and available funding. So, eligibility:

  1. All applicants must be Native American or Native Alaskan.
  2. They should need financial aid and be enrolled full-time.
  3. Students interested in applying for the AIGC must fill out the application and it is available online.

The Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA)

The Latino Medical Student Association – Uniting health professions  trainees to improve the health of underserved communities in the U.S.

The mission of LMSA is to empower future and current physicians and improve the health and well-being of the Hispanic & Latina communities in America. So, the Latino Medical Students Association Scholarship is available to Latino-descended medical students.

Eligibility:

  1. Firstly, all applicants must be of Latin or Hispanic descent and be enrolled in a U.S. medical school.
  2. Secondly, andidates should be able to provide for the Latino community and have vital financial needs.
  3. And last, ccandidates should have a solid academic record and have demonstrated community service.

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)

Howard Hughes Medical Institute

The HHMI has a program specifically for African Americans and minorities. The Gilliam Fellowship for Advanced Study funds for medical school. There are also grants for other medical practices. The fellowship can cover up to $46,500 and only covers the costs of a PhD program for up to five years.

Eligibility:

  1. All applicants must be enrolled at a college pursuing a degree in the medical field. 
  2. All applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents or legal residents.
  3. Participants must be HHMI Exceptional Researchers Opportunities Program participants. 
  4. To apply, students must submit a completed application, recommendations, test scores, and also transcript.

The United Negro College Fund (UNCF)

UNCF - Wikipedia

The UNCF is one of the most popular African American grant programs. It offers scholarships, grants, fellowships, and other financial aid to African American students who want to attend college. The UNCF also provides grants to minorities for medical school.

So, to be eligible for funding, applicants must have strong academics. They must submit a completed application, transcripts, test scores, and recommendations.

Eligibility:

  1. All applicants must be U.S. citizens.
  2. You must be a member of a minority group.
  3. You must attend a college that offers a medical degree.
  4. The applicant must show academic progress.

American Medical Association (AMA)

The AMA is a nationwide organization with many funding programs. The Minority Scholars Program, one of the most important funding sources for minority medical students, is available. This program gives minority medical students grants to help them with their education, research, residencies and other expenses.

Eligibility:

  1. A full-time student must be enrolled at a college or university.
  2. You must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
  3. You must show evidence of academic progress.
  4. The applicant must be a member of a minority group.

Conclusion

Minorities can receive medical school grants to help them complete their expensive education. Besides, many grants are available to minorities. Grant seekers need to remember that applying for grants can be tedious and time-consuming. Dedicated students in medical school are the only ones that can obtain these grants,

Lori Pace
Lori Pace

Lori Pace is a single mother of three daughters ages 7 and under. As a working mom from home, she balances kids, work and two crazy dogs with humor and love. Follow Lori as she honestly gives tips and advice based on her own experiences as a single mom!