Foundation Scholarships and Grants
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Supporting Your Professional Goals
The AORN Foundation supports your professional goals and helps you maintain evidence-based knowledge and competencies. We have awarded scholarships to more than 3,000 nurses working to earn a degree, achieve advanced certification, and complete continuing nurse education.
We offer the following scholarships and grants:
- Academic Scholarships
- Certification Grants
- Professional Development Grants
- Research Grants
Academic Scholarships
The AORN Foundation awards scholarships to students who are pursuing a career in perioperative nursing, and to registered nurses who are continuing their education in perioperative nursing by pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree.
If you have additional questions, feel free to contact the Foundation at [email protected] or (800) 755-2676.
Applications for the 2025-2026 School Year
Application is Closed
The application for the 2025-2026 school year is now closed. All candidates will be notified in late August regarding the status of their application. The application for 2026-2027 school year will open January 1, 2026.
CNOR®, CSSM®, and CNAMB® Certification Grants
CNOR, CSSM and CNAMB certification grants are supported by the Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI). Grants awarded can be used for assistance in CNOR, CSSM and CNAMB certification testing. Grants are available for new certification only.
Application is Closed
All candidates will be notified at the end of March, and the application for 2026 will open in December 2025.
Professional Development Grants
The Foundation offers professional development grants to help nurses maintain competency and to ensure safe and high-quality care.
AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo Grant
These grants assist with funding to attend our AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo, gaining access to vital education, innovation, and networking opportunities.
Applications are now open through November 30, 2025.
CRNFA Certification Grants
CRNFA certification grants are supported by the National Assistant at Surgery Certification (NASC). These grants are for current RNFAs working in an expanded role who are committed to enhancing their skills and delivering exceptional patient care.
Application is Closed
Intuitive Leadership Grant
Application is Closed
All candidates will be notified by mid-June.
Linda Groah Leadership Development Grant
This program seeks to identify and support aspiring nurse leaders who demonstrate exceptional promise in clinical leadership, innovative thinking, and a strong commitment to advancing the field of perioperative care. Please note: All nominees must be nominated by a colleague, supervisor, or other professional peer. Self-nominations will not be accepted. To submit a nomination form, you must log into your AORN account.
Application is Closed
The application for the 2025 Linda Groah Leadership Development Grant is now closed. All candidates will be notified in late October regarding the status of their application.
Research Grants
AORN is dedicated to incorporating research and evidence-based practice as a foundation for perioperative nursing to provide quality patient care.
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