Canadian Nurses Foundation (CNF) Nursing Scholarship 2026: Get Up to $10,000 Funding for RN, NP & PhD Students (Applications Open Jan 1)

The Canadian Nurses Foundation (CNF) has announced that applications for its 2026 Scholarship & Bursary Program will officially open on January 1, 2026. This is the premier funding opportunity for nursing students across Canada, supporting everyone from Baccalaureate undergraduates to Doctoral researchers.

With over 135 awards available annually, this program offers significant financial support ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Whether you are studying to become an RN, IEN, NP, LPN, or RPN, this scholarship can help cover tuition, books, and living expenses. The application window is short, closing in Mid-March 2026, so early preparation is essential.

Scholarship Overview & Key Details

Funding Amounts by Level

The CNF offers tiered funding based on your level of study. One application qualifies you for multiple awards.

• Doctoral: Up to $10,000.
• Masters & Nurse Practitioner: Up to $5,000.
• Baccalaureate (Degree): Up to $3,000.
• Practical Nursing: Up to $3,000.
• Internationally Educated Nursing (IEN): Up to $3,000.
• CNSA Member Awards: 24 awards of $1,000 each.

Eligibility & Timeline Requirements

To qualify, you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident enrolled in a nursing program in Canada. However, you must also meet specific coursework timelines by the application deadline:

• Baccalaureate: Must have completed a minimum of 4 courses (min 3 nursing faculty courses) and have at least 2 semesters remaining after applying.
• Masters: Must have completed 2 courses and be actively enrolled. (Not eligible if applying in your final semester if you received a CNF award the previous year).
• Doctoral: Must have completed 2 courses and have at least 2 semesters remaining.
• Practical Nurses: Must have completed at least 1 semester (min 3 courses/9 credits) and have 1 semester remaining.
• Accelerated / IEN Bridging: Must be currently enrolled and actively studying. (Funding restrictions apply if in the final semester and previously awarded).

Application Timeline (2026 Cycle)

Mark these dates to ensure you don't miss out on funding:

• Applications Open: January 1, 2026.
• Applications Close: Mid-March 2026.
• Merit Review: April 2026.
• Notification: June 2026.
• Payouts: Cheques are mailed in September and December 2026.

How to Apply

The entire process is managed online through the Survey Monkey Apply portal.

1. Create Account: Visit the application portal (link below) once it opens in January.
2. Complete Profile: Enter your academic details and personal information.
3. Upload Documents: You will likely need transcripts, proof of enrollment, and references.
4. Submit: Ensure your application is submitted before the March deadline. One application automatically considers you for all eligible awards (merit or need-based).

Official Application Link: Click Here to Apply for CNF Scholarship