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Canadian Nurses Foundation · National

CNSA Disability/Diversability Award

Reviewed by G Paul · verified April 23, 2026

$3,000

Total value

Dec 1

Deadline

About this award

Get up to $3,000 for nursing students in Canada who identify as having a disability or diversability — applications open each December.

You can receive up to $3,000 for your studies. This is a scholarship, not a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you are a nursing student who identifies as having a disability or diversability and wants to support your path toward becoming a healthcare professional. Applications open each December for the following academic year and typically close in late January. No specific date is posted publicly for the current cycle — before you start your application, check the Canadian Nurses Foundation (CNF — the national organization providing financial support to nurses) program page or call their office to confirm when applications open and close this year. You will hear back through the application portal or email. Winners are chosen based on merit by the CNF awards committee. They award over 135 scholarships per year across all tiers, though they do not publish the exact number of winners for this specific award — ask the CNF how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. Ask the Canadian Nurses Foundation during your application how the money will reach you — some awards pay students directly, others apply funds to tuition. Confirm this so you can plan your cash flow. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with the Canadian Nurses Foundation whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Can you get it?

Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident — citizenship requirement
Undergraduate — study level
Studying RPN, LPN, RN — field of study

How to apply

Review eligibility and gather your documents~1 hour
Read the official award page end-to-end. Confirm you meet every requirement before you start.
Submit by December 1, 2026~1 hour
Double-check every field, save a copy, and submit at least 24 hours early.

More details

Identity

The biggest mistake is giving a vague description of your needs.

Strategy

Winners instead clearly explain how their disability or diversability has shaped their perspective on patient care and why this funding is necessary for their success.

Membership

Many students forget to verify their CNSA membership is active before applying.

Strategy

Ensure your membership is current and documented so your application isn't disqualified on a technicality.

Strategy

Since one single application covers every CNF scholarship you are eligible for, take the time to thoroughly document every aspect of your identity and achievements.

Strategy

This increases your chances across multiple award tiers simultaneously.

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