Empower Your Future with Scholarships

At 91成人导航, we believe that scholarships are not just about financial aid; they are how we invest in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change makers.  As a student in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program, you'll have access to several scholarship and funding opportunities to help finance your degree. 

Up to $5,000 in tuition awards
Chan Scholarship

This award was established in in 2020 by 91成人导航 alumni Tony and Virginia Chan to support students enrolled in programs at the School of Health Sciences. Students may receive a scholarship up to $5,000, based on the strength of their program application in OTCAS. Applications are reviewed automatically, with no supplemental application required.

Students engage in Occupational Therapy work in clinical practice areas on the Sacramento campus
Occupational Therapy students at an event on 91成人导航's Sacramento campus
Up to $4,000 tuition scholarship
Merit Scholarship

91成人导航's Occupational Therapy program values students who embody innovation, compassion, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact. All new students are considered for a merit award up to $4,000 based on a holistic application review, considering not only GPA but also professional experience, community engagement, and personal resilience. No supplemental application is required, and awards are offered once admission is confirmed.

Scholarship recipients must be currently enrolled in the OTD program, remain in good academic standing, and agree to the terms and conditions of the award. 

Up to $9,000 per trimester
Justice System Involved Youth Scholarship

The JSIY scholarship is designed to remove financial barriers and empower students who have experienced foster care, the justice system, or housing instability. Applicants can receive up to $9,000 in tuition awars per trimester, and will be evaluated holistically, considering their lived experiences, and dedication to serving underrepresented communities. Through this award, we aim to uplift future occupational therapists who bring unique perspectives and a passion for creating inclusive, impactful change.

Occupational Therapy students converse in front of the library on 91成人导航's Sacramento campus.
two students walk on the Sacramento Campus
Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training

The Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHW) scholarship provides financial support up to $32,000 and advanced clinical training to OTD students preparing to work in behavioral health with pediatric and young adult populations. Awardees will gain specialized knowledge and hands-on experience in settings that address the mental health needs of youth, equipping them to become compassionate, skilled practitioners in high-demand areas of care. 

Eligible applicants must be in their second year of the OTD program, remain in good academic standing, and meet all qualifications of the award.

Dean鈥檚 Resilience Endowed Scholarship

The Dean鈥檚 Resilience Endowed Scholarship awards $2,000 to support a student from our diverse regional community who has demonstrated perseverance in overcoming significant challenges to pursue higher education. This award recognizes resilience and dedication by assisting students from the Central Valley or Northern California who show academic excellence, financial need, and a commitment to advancing the field of occupational therapy. Preference is given to students from historically underrepresented groups within the profession and/or their geographic area. 

Eligible applicants must be enrolled in the School of Health Sciences during the fall trimester.

two students stand together holding an award

External Scholarship Opportunities

California HCAI Behavioral Health Scholarship

The California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) will provide eligible applicants up to $25,000 in funding for behavioral health care in underserved communities. 

EMC Health Foundation

The EMC scholarship provides up to $150,000 to doctoral students who commit to working in the EMC Health Foundation geographical area for four years after becoming licensed practitioners. The EMC Health Foundation serves 19 Zip codes, from Modesto to Atwater to Patterson.

E.K. Wise Scholarship (AOTA)

The E.K. Wise Scholarship was established in the 1960s through the generous bequest of Elizabeth K. Wise to support students from diverse backgrounds pursuing entry-level degrees in occupational therapy (OT) or occupational therapy assistant (OTA) programs. Each year, three awards of $2,500 are granted, with the option for recipients to reapply for a second year of support. 

American Occupational Therapy Foundation

More than 50 scholarships are available each year through the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) and participating state occupational therapy associations. Applicants complete a single online application to be considered for all scholarships for which they qualify. For details on eligibility requirements and the application process, please see How to Apply

California Foundation for Occupational Therapy

The California Foundation for Occupational Therapy (CFOT) awards more than 20 scholarships annually to support occupational therapy students in California ($1,000-$2,000). Eligible applicants must be California residents planning to work in the state upon completion of their degree, enrolled in an OT program in California with at least one completed term and a minimum GPA of 3.0, and members of the Occupational Therapy Association of California. 

Addiction Resource Scholarship Essay Contest

The Addiction Resource Scholarship Essay Contest awards $1,250 to the first-place winner and $250 to the runner-up. This scholarship is open to students pursuing a doctoral degree in the United States. Applicants are required to submit an original essay on the designated topic for consideration. 

AMBUCS Scholarship Program for Therapists

Since 1955, National AMBUCS, Inc. has provided scholarships to students pursuing degrees in physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and audiology. To date, the program has awarded more than $10 million to over 16,757 students, supporting their education and professional development in rehabilitation and therapy fields.  

DAR Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship

The DAR Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship awards $5,000 to four students demonstrating financial need who have been accepted to, or are currently attending, an accredited school of occupational therapy, physical therapy, or related fields such as art or music therapy. This scholarship supports students in advancing their education and preparing for careers in therapeutic professions. 

EXXAT Scholarship

The Exxat Scholarship recognizes and supports students shaping the future of healthcare. This year, four awards of $1,000 each will be granted to students who exemplify excellence in scholarly productivity, diversity and inclusion, leadership, and commitment to serving underserved communities. 

HIE Help Center

The HIE Help Center Scholarship awards $1,000 annually to one undergraduate or graduate student planning to pursue a career in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech-language pathology. This scholarship supports students in advancing their education and preparing for a career in the rehabilitation and therapy fields. 

Allina Health EMPOWER

The Allina EMPOWER Scholarship, administered by the Courage Kenny Foundation, encourages, and supports ethnically diverse students pursuing careers in medical or rehabilitation fields. Made possible through the generous David M. Hersey Endowment Fund, this scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate a clear plan for applying their education, a commitment to rehabilitation, strong academic achievement, and financial need. The annual application period is January 1 through April 15, with scholarships awarded in June. 

Veterans Affairs (VA)

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a variety of educational opportunities, including scholarships and loan repayment programs for full-time students. These awards support students who commit to filling a VA service position upon graduation, helping to advance careers in healthcare while serving veterans and their families.