A variety of scholarships and educational grants are available to students seeking a career as an occupational therapist. Scholarship money can provide recipients with the crucial financial edge that allows them to be able to continue attending school and attain their degree. Professional organizations are the most common source for occupational therapy scholarships and grants.
AOTA E.K. Wise Scholarship
The American Occupational Therapy Association provides educational grant money to female graduate students through the AOTA E.K. Wise Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded in the amount of $5,000 as of 2011, and may be renewable for a second year. To be eligible, a student must be a member of AOTA and a U.S. female citizen, and enrolled in a master's or doctoral program. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic achievement, leadership skills, and community service.
AMBUCS Scholarship Program
AMBUCS (American Business Clubs) offers financial support to occupational therapy students through its scholarship program. Several scholarships are available in amounts ranging from $500 to $1,500, as well as one two-year $6,000 scholarship, as of 2011. To be eligible for AMBUCS scholarships, a student must be in their junior year or higher, and must be a citizen of the United States. Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible. Recipients are selected on the basis of financial need, commitment to community, character, and academic achievement. The annual deadline for application is April 15.
DAR Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship
The Daughters of the American Revolution National Society provides financial assistance to occupational therapy students through the DAR Occupational and Physical Therapy Scholarship. This is a one-time educational grant in the amount of $1,000. To be eligible, a student must be attending school within the United States, and must be able to demonstrate financial aid. The annual deadline for application is February 15.
AOTF Scholarships
The American Occupational Therapy Foundation offers a variety of scholarships and educational grants to students pursuing a master's degree or Ph.D. in occupational therapy. The Edith Weingarten Scholarship, Frank Oppenheimer Scholarship, and Mary Minglen Scholarship are all available in the amount of $1,000. The Carolyn Kohn Memorial Scholarship is available in the amount of $2,000 to residents of New York state. Two NorthCoast Medical Scholarships are awarded annually in the amount of $5,000 apiece. To be eligible, a student must be a member of AOTF and must have completed at least one full year of post-baccalaureate study.
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