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ACN Foundation opens applications for 2026 nursing scholarships

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The Australian College of Nursing Foundation is pleased to announce that applications for its March 2026 round of nursing scholarships, grants, and awards are now open.

Funding of up to $30,000 available to support Australian nurses in postgraduate study, professional development, and research, with applications closing mid-April 2026.

The ACN Foundation is committed to supporting nurses to advance their careers and expertise, by removing financial barriers that can stand between dedicated health professionals and their continuing education and career advancement.

“Investing in nurses is investing in better patient outcomes and a stronger healthcare system for all Australians,” said ACN Chief Executive Officer, Adjunct Professor Kathryn Zetiz FACN. “These scholarships provide significant support that can transform a nurse’s career and the lives of the patients they serve.”

The March 2026 round includes a diverse range of funding opportunities covering postgraduate study, continuing professional development, leadership, and research. Available scholarships and grants include:

  • The Convatec Stomal Therapy Scholarship
  • The Sister Margaret Y Winning Scholarship
  • The College Consortium Research Grant
  • The Sul Stuart Fraser Memorial Scholarship
  • The Marjorie Schuman Rural Nurse Scholarship, sponsored by the David and Jennie Sutherland Foundation
  • The Rosemary Harrison Scholarship, supported by Richard Harrison and family
  • The Nurse to Board Scholarship
  • The Patricia Slater Award
  • The Eric Murray Award, supported by the Eric Murray family.
  • The Mental Health Nursing Scholarship sponsored by Recovery Camp
  • The Endometriosis Australia Scholarship, sponsored by Endometriosis Australia

Scholarship values range from $1,100 to $30,000, providing substantial financial support to advance nurses’ careers and enhance clinical practice.

ACN is grateful to the philanthropic individuals and businesses who have supported these scholarships.

The ACN Foundation is proud to champion diversity and inclusion in nursing. Certain scholarships – including the Endometriosis Australia Scholarship – give preference to First Nations and Torres Strait Islander applicants, LGBTQIA+ applicants, and nurses from rural, remote, and culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Interested nurses are encouraged to visit here to review the full list of available scholarships, check individual eligibility requirements, and submit their application before the closing date of 14 April 2026 (19 April for Recovery Camp Scholarship).

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