Unlocking Opportunities: Top Scholarships for Aspiring Occupational Therapists

Published - January 31, 2025

Investing in your future is the best investment you can make. However, attending a graduate degree program can be a significant financial investment. Fortunately, there are scholarships and other financial aid options available. This article will review the importance of obtaining scholarships and offer a list of the scholarships you can apply for. Let us help you become an occupational therapist with financial support.

Why Scholarships are Important for Pursuing an Occupational Therapy Master’s Degree

Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy (OT) is a significant investment in time, effort, and finances. As healthcare continues to evolve, the demand for qualified occupational therapists has risen, making an Occupational Therapy Master’s degree a requirement to become a licensed occupational therapist. However, the financial burden of obtaining an advanced degree can be hard for many students. This is where scholarships come into play. Scholarships help pay for college, making higher education more accessible and ensuring that qualified individuals can enter the occupational therapy field.

The High Cost of Graduate Education

Tuition fees, books, lab, fieldwork, and living costs can add up quickly. Many students often take out significant loans to cover these expenses, which can result in long-term debt. Scholarships provide essential financial support, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than worrying about their financial situation.

Reducing Student Debt Burden

Occupational therapy students often complete fieldwork and internships, which may not provide financial compensation. Scholarships can reduce the need for student loans, enabling graduates to start their careers without the weight of excessive debt.

Encouraging Academic Excellence

Scholarships are often merit-based, rewarding students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and dedication to their field. By providing financial assistance to high-achieving students, scholarships encourage academic excellence and motivate students to strive for their best performance. Many OT master’s programs have rigorous coursework and demanding fieldwork requirements. When students receive scholarships, they can dedicate more time to excelling in their studies rather than worrying about their financial situation.

Expanding Access to Education

Financial constraints should never be a barrier to education. Scholarships help make graduate education more accessible to individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. By offering scholarships, institutions, and organizations help students pay for college, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent students from pursuing their dream careers in occupational therapy.

Supporting Underrepresented Groups in Healthcare

Scholarships targeted at underrepresented groups in healthcare, including minorities and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, help increase diversity within the occupational therapy profession. By supporting students from various backgrounds, scholarships contribute to a more inclusive workforce that can better serve the needs of a diverse patient population.

Funding Research and Innovation

Occupational therapy is an evolving field that requires continuous research and innovation to improve patient care. Many graduate students engage in research projects that contribute to advancing OT practices. Scholarships that support research initiatives enable students to explore innovative treatment approaches, develop new interventions, and contribute valuable knowledge to the field. However, many students may be unable to pursue research opportunities without financial support due to the demands of part-time jobs or other financial obligations.

Enhancing Career Opportunities

Receiving a scholarship is a financial benefit and an academic achievement that enhances a student’s resume. Being a scholarship recipient demonstrates dedication, hard work, and a commitment to excellence. Employers highly value these qualities in the occupational therapy field and can help graduates stand out in a competitive job market.

Fostering Long-Term Professional Growth

The benefits of scholarships extend beyond the financial assistance they provide during a student’s academic journey. Many scholarship programs include mentorship opportunities, networking events, and professional development resources. These additional benefits help students build connections within the occupational therapy community, gain insights from experienced professionals, and access opportunities for career advancement.

How to Find and Apply for Scholarships

Aspiring occupational therapists should seek scholarship opportunities to maximize their financial support. Here are some strategies for finding and applying for scholarships:

Research Professional Organizations: Organizations such as the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and state OT associations often offer scholarships for graduate students.

Look for Private Foundations: Numerous nonprofit organizations and foundations provide scholarships for students pursuing careers in healthcare.

Meet Application Deadlines: Missing a deadline can mean missing out on valuable financial aid. Keep track of scholarship deadlines and requirements.

Tailor Your Applications: Personalize your application essays to align with the scholarship’s mission and values.

Highlight Leadership and Community Service: Many scholarships value candidates committed to service and leadership.

Which Scholarships are Available to Occupational Therapy Master’s Students?

Pursuing a Master’s in Occupational Therapy can be financially demanding. Below is a list of notable scholarships, including their eligibility criteria and application processes:

California Foundation for Occupational Therapy (CFOT) Scholarships

Eligibility: California residents enrolled in an OT program within the state who plan to work in California upon graduation. Applicants must have completed at least one term with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be members of the Occupational Therapy Association of California.

Application Process: Applicants should review the guidelines for entry-level or post-professional scholarships and submit the required materials by the specified deadlines.

American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) Scholarships

Eligibility: Full-time students enrolled in an AOTA-accredited or developing professional-level (master’s or OTD) program.

Application Requirements:

Complete an online application with contact information and academic background.
Submit a resume detailing volunteer service, extracurricular activities, honors, awards, and work experience.
Answer essay questions to showcase personal and professional attributes.
Provide three references: an academic reference, a character reference, and a reference from the OT Program Director.

Application Process: Applications are submitted online. Ensure all components, including references, are completed by the specified deadline.

E.K. Wise Scholarship

Eligibility: Full-time students in an OT or OTA program who support diversity within the profession.

Application Requirements:

Be a member of AOTA.
Demonstrate leadership and community service.
Maintain good academic standing.
Provide two references, including one from the educational institution.
Submit a personal narrative detailing contributions to a diverse workforce and motivation for becoming an OT or OTA.

Application Process: Applications are open from February to early March. Details are available on the AOTA website.

Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Occupational Therapy Scholarship

Eligibility: Students accepted or attending an accredited OT program who demonstrate financial need.

Application Requirements:

U.S. citizenship.
Plan to attend an accredited OT program.
Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25 for most scholarships.

Application Process: Applications are typically due by February 15. Visit the DAR website for specific details.

What are Some Other Financial Aid Options?

Below is a step-by-step guide to help you successfully apply for scholarships and create an outstanding application.

Step 1: Research Available Scholarships and Financial Aid

Where to Look for Scholarships

University Financial Aid Office – Check with your school’s financial aid and OT department for available scholarships.

Professional Associations – Consider organizations such as the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF), the Occupational Therapy Association of California (OTAC), or AMBUCS.

Diversity & Minority Programs – If you are part of an underrepresented group, consider scholarships like the Lela Llorens Endowed Scholarship or AOTF Diversity Scholarships.

Government Aid – Explore FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), state grants, and loan repayment programs like the Allied Healthcare Scholarship Program.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

Before starting your application, ensure you have all the required materials ready. Common documents include:

Official Transcripts – Demonstrate academic excellence.

Resume/CV – Highlight relevant experiences, community service, and leadership.

Personal Statement or Essay – Showcase your motivation and suitability.

Letters of Recommendation – From professors, OT professionals, or mentors.

Proof of Enrollment – Show that you are accepted or enrolled in an OT program.

FAFSA Form (if financial need-based) – Submit to qualify for government and institutional aid.

Step 3: Apply for Federal and State Financial Aid (FAFSA)

Deadline: October 1 – June 30 each year (varies by state)

How to Apply:

Go to FAFSA.gov and create an FSA ID.
Complete the FAFSA form with your personal and financial information.
List the schools where you want the aid to be sent.
Review and submit before the deadline.
Check your Student Aid Report (SAR) for errors and make corrections if necessary.

Step 4: Write a Standout Scholarship Application

Craft an Outstanding Personal Statement

Follow the Prompt: Address specific questions asked by the scholarship provider.

Tell Your Story: Share why you chose occupational therapy and your career goals.

Demonstrate Passion: Highlight personal experiences that fueled your passion for OT.

Show Impact: Discuss your contributions to community service or diversity in healthcare.

Keep it Concise & Error-Free: Aim for 500-700 words and proofread carefully.

Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Request letters from professors, OT supervisors, or mentors who know you well. Provide them with your resume and personal statement to help them tailor the letter. Request letters of recommendation at least 4 weeks in advance to give them enough time.

Format Your Resume Effectively

Keep it one page and highlight:

Relevant work, volunteer, or internship experiences in OT.
Leadership roles in student organizations.
Certifications (e.g., First Aid, CPR).
Research or publications (if applicable).

Provide Financial Need Documentation (if required)

If applying for need-based scholarships, submit your FAFSA Student Aid Report (SAR). Write a concise financial need statement explaining your situation.

Step 5: Submit Applications Before the Deadline

Triple-check the requirements for each scholarship before submission. Confirm deadlines and submit early to avoid last-minute technical issues. Also, keep copies of your applications for future reference.

Follow Up and Monitor Your Applications

Check your email regularly for updates or requests for additional information. Send a thank-you email to recommenders and scholarship committees if awarded.

CBD College Student Services: Scholarship Advising

CBD College supports our students in navigating financial aid and their education through its dedicated Financial Aid Department. While the college does not offer a formal scholarship program, the Financial Aid Officers are well-versed in financial aid and scholarship opportunities. They can guide students in exploring and securing external scholarships and financial aid opportunities.

Services Provided by the Financial Aid Department

Personalized Financial Aid Counseling: Financial Aid Officers are available to discuss individual financial situations, helping students understand their options and develop a plan to fund their education.

Guidance on Federal and State Aid Programs: The department provides information and support for applying to federal and state financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.

Veteran Benefits Support: For eligible veterans, the Financial Aid Officers can assist in navigating and applying for educational benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

How to Access Financial Aid Services

Students interested in exploring financial aid options, including scholarship advising, are encouraged to schedule an appointment with a Financial Aid Officer. Students can receive advice and assistance in completing necessary applications and documentation during this meeting.

Visit the Financial Aid section of CBD College’s website for more detailed information on the financial aid process and to access resources.

Hybrid Occupational Therapy Master’s Program

Graduates of CBD College’s hybrid Occupational Therapy program develop expertise in designing and implementing evidence-based treatment plans. Through comprehensive coursework and clinical experiences, over the course of 29 months, you’ll acquire the skills to empower individuals of all ages to overcome challenges and achieve optimal well-being.