Scholarships for Public Health Degrees: Complete List & Application Tips

Scholarships are more than just financial aid, they are a public health intervention in their own right. As the cost of higher education continues to rise, financial barriers threaten to narrow the pipeline of future epidemiologists, health educators, policy advocates, and global health professionals^2,4. Without accessible funding, many students—particularly those from historically underserved backgrounds—are unable to pursue degrees in public health^2-4. 

Equity in education is directly tied to equity in health outcomes. A more diverse and representative public health workforce is essential to understanding and addressing the needs of all communities. This is especially true in underserved areas where public health professionals often serve as the first—and sometimes only—line of prevention, education, and care. Scholarships help ensure that students who are passionate about serving these communities can do so without being deterred by cost.

Moreover, many public health careers are not among the highest-paying roles in the health sciences, despite their critical role in improving population-wide health outcomes and addressing systemic disparities.⁵. Students who take on significant debt to enter the field may struggle financially for years. Graduate scholarships reduce this burden and allow graduates to pursue meaningful roles in government, nonprofits, research, and community health without the added pressure of unmanageable debt.

Now that we’ve established the utility of scholarships for enabling broader representation in public health, we need to back up and ask: What can you do with a public health degree? The answer: a great deal. But to get there, we must first lower the barriers that keep dedicated students out, and scholarships are one of the most powerful tools we have.

Not all scholarships are created equal—and that’s a good thing. The diversity of public health scholarships means there are opportunities tailored to your background, academic path, and career goals. Understanding the types available can help you find the funding that fits your unique journey.

By understanding the distinctions between merit-based, need-based, demographic, and field-specific scholarships, you can more effectively filter opportunities and craft targeted, compelling applications. In many cases, you may qualify for multiple types of aid, increasing your chances of securing support.

You may be wondering, what GPA do you need to get a full scholarship? While it varies, many merit-based programs seek GPAs of 3.5 or higher. However, don’t count yourself out if your GPA is lower—especially if you bring strong community leadership, lived experience, or compelling career goals. Remember, scholarships are about more than numbers, they’re about investing in the future of public health.

Whether you're just starting your undergraduate studies or pursuing a doctoral degree in public health, scholarship opportunities exist to support your path. Below, we’ve compiled a curated list of high-impact scholarships, fellowships, and grants organized by academic level. These examples reflect a range of eligibility criteria, award sizes, and areas of focus, so you can find funding that aligns with your goals.

Be sure to visit each program’s official website for up-to-date deadlines, application details, and eligibility requirements. Most major public health schools also maintain their own financial aid and scholarship databases—often with awards specific to academic concentration, identity, or service commitment.

If you’re wondering, “What public health scholarships do I qualify for?” The answer lies in reading eligibility closely and applying to a myriad of options. Many students are surprised to learn they qualify for more than one award, and every dollar counts toward lowering the cost of your education.

If you’re wondering, “Where can I find scholarships for public health students?”You’re not alone. The good news is that many of the best resources are just a few clicks away. Finding the right scholarship takes time, but building a consistent search strategy can make the process easier and more successful.

Start with trusted scholarship databases like Fastweb and Scholarships.com, which allow you to create a profile and filter results based on your degree level, academic focus, identity, and financial need. These platforms update regularly, so it’s worth checking back often or setting up personalized alerts.

Public health-specific resources are also essential. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) lists federally funded scholarships and loan repayment programs for students entering health professions. The Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) and SOPHAS also maintain up-to-date lists of funding opportunities for MPH and doctoral candidates.

Don’t overlook your intended (or current) university’s financial aid website—many schools offer scholarships tailored to their public health programs or specific concentrations like environmental health or maternal and child health. Some institutions also maintain partnerships with local or state health departments that offer additional funding.

To stay ahead, consider setting up Google Alerts using keywords like “public health scholarships” or “MPH financial aid.” Subscribing to public health foundations, student associations, and school newsletters can also help you learn about new opportunities early.

A proactive and organized approach to searching can uncover funding you might have otherwise missed—and put your education goals within closer reach.

Winning a public health scholarship isn’t just about having the perfect GPA—it’s about telling your story, showcasing your commitment to service, and preparing thoroughly. With the right approach, you can submit a compelling application that stands out, even in a competitive pool.

Start by understanding what most scholarship applications require. Common components include your academic transcripts, a current CV or resume, a personal statement or essay prompt, and two to three letters of recommendation. Consider updating the personal statement you used for your undergraduate or graduate school application for the scholarship, and reaching back out to the people who wrote recommendations for you previously as a starting point. Some scholarships may also ask for proof of financial need, such as your FAFSA or family income documentation.

Most scholarship deadlines fall between late fall and early spring, so it’s wise to start researching and gathering materials early in the academic year. Create a calendar with key dates to avoid missing out on deadlines.

One of the most important elements of your application is the scholarship essay. You might be asking, “What do you write in a scholarship essay?” The best essays are honest, specific, and aligned with the mission of the scholarship provider. Focus on your passion for public health, your lived experience, and how your goals align with serving communities. If the scholarship is equity-focused, emphasize your commitment to health justice. If it's merit-based, highlight leadership or academic achievements.

Whenever possible, tailor each application to the specific award—but don’t be afraid to reuse strong essay content when appropriate. With careful planning and a clear sense of purpose, you’ll be better positioned to secure financial aid and move forward in your public health journey. Public health scholarships don’t just reward potential—they invest in your impact, so start early, stay organized, and apply with confidence.

Scholarships are a powerful resource—but they’re just one part of the broader financial aid landscape. If you don’t receive a scholarship, don’t assume your public health education is out of reach. There are multiple pathways to make your degree, or a public health graduate certificate, more affordable.

Start by submitting your application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form determines eligibility for federal grants like the Pell Grant (for undergraduate students), low-interest loans, and work-study programs that offer part-time employment on campus or in public health settings.

Graduate assistantships are another valuable option for MPH and doctoral students. These roles typically provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for research or teaching support. Many universities offer assistantships within schools of public health.

For those entering or already in the workforce, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program can be a game-changer. PSLF forgives remaining federal student loan debt after 10 years of qualifying public service and consistent payments. Some employers, particularly in government and nonprofit sectors, also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing advanced degrees.

Whether you’re just starting or returning mid-career, exploring these options can help reduce debt and keep you moving toward your public health goals.