Scholarships

Vet Tech Scholarship Opportunities

Last Updated: February 2023

Oxbow Animal Health Veterinary Technology Scholarship

Oxbow Animal Health is a family-owned and operated company committed to helping small animals lead longer and healthier lives. Established in 1980, the organization provides high-quality animal nutritional products and supports rescue programs, scholarship opportunities, educational initiatives, and veterinary associations.

The organization offers several scholarships for aspiring professionals in all aspects of the field, those who aspire to pursue careers in the pet industry working with companion animals or exotic ones, and those interested in future careers in animal care as veterinary technicians or doctors. Scholarships are open to individuals from high school to master’s programs at all levels.

  • Amount: $500-$2,000; the Veterinary Technology Scholarship awards $500

  • Deadline: March 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: Those with a keen interest in a career in small and exotic animal medicine are the focus of this scholarship. Relevant volunteer participation, extracurricular activities, and work experience are a benefit. To qualify for this scholarship, applicants have to complete the online application, submit a resume, provide a letter of reference, proof of full-time enrollment in an accredited veterinary technology program, a transcript copy, current GPA, and a 300-500 word essay explaining why they want to work in the exotic animal field.


The Sagebrush Circuit—Lew & JoAnn Eklund Educational Scholarship

The Appaloosa Youth Foundation awards scholarships to outstanding youth members of the Appaloosa Horse Club or Appaloosa Youth Association wishing to pursue higher education. The Sagebrush Circuit Lew and Jo Eklund Scholarship is given to members of the ApHC or the son or daughter of an ApHC member and is awarded to a college junior, senior, or graduate student who is pursuing a degree in a major field of study that is closely related to the equine industry.

  • Amount: $2,000

  • Deadline: March 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: Applicants must be college or university upperclassmen or graduate students and must be pursuing an equine-related field. They have maintained a GPA of at least 3.5. They must be members of the Appaloosa Horse Club or the son or daughter of an ApHC member. Additional application requirements include three letters of recommendation and an official college transcript.


The Gladys Carol Scholarship Program

The Gladys Carol Scholarship Program, Inc. is a non-profit charity organization funded only through the generosity of its donors. All donations go directly toward scholarships. This Scholarship Program was established by Gladys’s daughter, Cheryl. Students enrolled in or pursuing a science, technology, engineering, or math degree in the United States are assisted financially through this scholarship.

  • Amount: $5,000 ($2,500 each year)

  • Deadline: March 31, 2023

  • Who Should Apply: Current undergraduate-level students, high school graduates, and high school seniors who are citizens of the United States or permanent residents, accepted to or enrolled in a full-time STEM program at an accredited university in the United States. Applicants must also have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.75.


NPFDA Foundation Scholarships

Started by a group of poultry & food distributors in 1967, the National Poultry & Food Distributors Association has constantly been growing and changing to meet its member’s needs.

The NPFDA Foundation has given approximately $280,000 to rising leaders since 1979. This scholarship is for applicants who are employees or children of an employee of an NPFDA Member Company. The funds for this scholarship come from private cash donations and donations to the NPFDA Foundation’s annual silent auction.

  • Amount: Six scholarships, $5,000 each

  • Deadline: April 30, 2023

  • Who Should Apply: Applicants must be employees or children of an employee of an NPFDA Member Company. They must be full-time undergraduate or high school seniors pursuing a degree.


Oregon Farm Bureau Clackamas County Farm Bureau Scholarship

Established in 1932, the Oregon Farm Bureau is a nonprofit organization with 6,600 farming and ranching members raising over 220 different types of crops and livestock. Its goal is to provide educational improvement, economic opportunity, and social advancement for the farming and ranching industry. The organization offers several scholarships focused on agriculture, farming, and ranching.

  • Amount: $500

  • Deadline: April 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: Those interested in applying their vet tech education to a career in livestock, farming, ranching, and animal husbandry are encouraged to apply. The scholarship is available to any Clackamas County High School graduate, current county resident, or prior recipient. A grade point average of 2.8 is required.


Sheep Heritage Foundation Memorial Scholarship

American Sheep Industry Association is the national organization representing the interests of more than 100,000 sheep producers in the United States.

The Sheep Heritage Foundation Memorial Scholarship has been made available for sheep-related graduate studies through the American Sheep Industry Association. This scholarship is for advancing the sheep industry through the financial support of graduate-level students attending a school in the U.S.

  • Amount: $3,000

  • Deadline: May 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: Graduate students who are involved in sheep or wool research in areas such as animal science, agriculture economics, or veterinary medicine with proof of graduate school acceptance. Candidates need to complete an online application and provide two letters of reference. They should also provide proof of graduate school acceptance or enrollment.


Heartland Goldens and Mini Goldendoodles Veterinarian Scholarship

This scholarship is made available due to a gift from Heartland Goldens and Mini Goldendoodles (HGMG). This scholarship is for graduating high school seniors who demonstrate excellence in the classroom, have a positive history in the care of animals, and are pursuing a four-year degree in animal nutrition, animal science, animal breeding and genetics, biological sciences, or pre-vet sciences. Preferences will be given to applicants planning a career in veterinary medicine.

  • Amount: $500

  • Deadline: May 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: Graduating high school seniors demonstrating excellence in the classroom and who are pursuing a four-year degree in animal science, animal nutrition, animal breeding and genetics, biological sciences, or pre-vet sciences.


AZVT Laurie Page-Peck Scholarship

Established in 1980, the Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians (AZVT) provides a forum for vet techs employed in zoos to continue their education, share best practices, and engage in discussions about the field. The organization is devoted to all aspects of veterinary technical care in zoo medicine and publishes newsletters, sponsors conferences, and offers grant and scholarship programs.

The Laurie Page-Peck Scholarship was started in 1993 to honor the memory of Laurie Page-Peck. Page-Peck worked as a senior veterinary technician at the North Carolina Zoological Park. She had cancer and died at age 37 in August 1992. She worked for twelve years, dedicating herself to the care of exotic animals, and was a member of AZVT from 1986 through 1990.

  • Amount: $1,500

  • Deadline: May 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: Applicants must write a scientific, medically oriented paper on the subject of zoo veterinary technology, not limited to husbandry. Those with a strong academic style, robust presentation skills, and an intense interest in the zoo vet tech subfield are encouraged to apply. Students who are currently enrolled in veterinary or medical tech programs are eligible to apply.


IAOPC Doyle L. Shugart Scholarship Program

The International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing pet cemeteries’ standards, ethics, and professionalism and crematories. Established in 1971, this nonprofit organization is committed to safe, compassionate, and thorough pet aftercare through the education of industry professionals and pet parents.

Doyle L. Shugart, a former IAOPCC president, and a board director understood why the innate bond between animals and humans is essential. After he died in 2012, the IAOPCC dedicated an annual vet tech scholarship program in honor of his tremendous educational contribution to the profession.

  • Amount: $1,000

  • Deadline: June 1, 2023

  • Who Should Apply: Those with a strong belief in the value of dignified and compassionate aftercare, specifically when dealing with the loss of a pet. Eligible applicants include veterinary tech students in an accredited program or veterinary students in their second year or higher education.


John D. Spurling Scholarship

The AKC Humane Fund is committed to supporting the happiness and health of dogs across the nation. It offers grants to help support pet-related organizations and scholarships to students pursuing education in fields that contribute to the human-animal bond.

This fund annually honors five students pursuing degrees related to advancing responsible pet ownership through the John D. Spurling OBE KCVO Scholarship. Scholarships are intended as tuition assistance for students with excellent academic records pursuing education in a field that advances responsible pet ownership.

  • Amount: Five scholarships, totaling $10,000 annually

  • Deadline: July 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: Individuals pursuing studies in veterinary technology, veterinary medicine, animal care, physical therapy, grooming, animal behavior, and training, may be eligible for this grant. Applicants must be full-time students enrolled in a degree or certification program at an accredited U.S. institution.


Walkin’ Pets Veterinarian and Rehab Vet Tech Scholarship

Founded in 2001 by a bereaved pet owner whose seizure-prone dog was euthanized too soon, Walkin’ Pets Handicapped Pets.com was created to support caretakers of elderly, injured, and handicapped pets. Handicapped Pets is not only a provider of numerous assistive technology options, but also educates owners on advancements in medicine, technology, and care that can mean the difference between an animal’s happy life, and its premature death.

  • Amount: Up to $1,500

  • Deadline: July 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: Those with a strong, concise, and compassionate writing style are best suited for this scholarship program’s expansive essay prompt. The prompt covers the history of end-of-life issues for pets, the change in assistive technology for disabled pets, animal euthanasia ethics, and other topics.


NSHSS STEAM Scholarship

The National Society of High School Scholars is a distinguished academic honor society that is committed to serving and recognizing the highest-achieving student scholars. NSHSS and its partners offer more than $2,000,000 in scholarships annually. This scholarship is for students planning to pursue a major in a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, or mathematics) field.

  • Amount: Ten scholarships, $1,000 each

  • Deadline: August 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: High school seniors planning to major in a STEAM field (science, technology, engineering, arts, or mathematics), including any area related to the medical field. Application requirements include a Personal statement, a current resume, transcript, and educator recommendation.


Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation Scholarship

Joseph James Morelli struggled with dyslexia and was labeled as “lazy” and criticized for not trying hard enough. Suspecting a challenge, Joseph’s parents pursued neuropsychology and hired a lawyer to fight for his accommodations and rights to assistive technology, extra time, notes, and tests being read to him. With an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and accommodations, he excelled and received an award in math and science from the State of Utah. This scholarship was started by the Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation – a charitable organization, to honor Joseph’s spirit. This foundation supports students with learning difficulties by awarding scholarships to them toward obtaining a degree in a STEM field. Since 2014, the foundation has awarded more than $320,000 in scholarships to more than 130 high school and college students.

  • Amount: $500 to $2,500

  • Deadline: February 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: Applicants to this scholarship must have a demonstrated learning challenge (disability) of dyslexia, must be pursuing a degree in a STEM field, and must either be a high school student or a post-high school student.


Charles Shelton Foundation Veterinary Scholarship Program

The Charles Shelton Foundation, a national non-profit organization, has been providing scholarships to high school graduates and college students pursuing a higher education degree in veterinary medicine and technology for more than five years. Its main aim is to help African American students in veterinary medicine or technology afford higher education. Two scholarships will be provided by the Charles Shelton Foundation to individuals demonstrating an interest and commitment to animal welfare.

  • Amount: Two scholarships, $2,000 each

  • Deadline: April 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 3.0, provide an official copy of their transcript, should be African-American graduating high school seniors, current college students, or returning college students, must be a legal U.S. resident, complete the veterinary scholarship form, and provide two professional references.


Mae & Mary Scholarship Fund

Mae And Mary Legacy Foundation, Inc. is a charitable educational nonprofit organization that promotes community engagement through empowerment, scholarships, signature products, health education, services, and events. It aims to improve overall wellness awareness within the African American community.

The Mae & Mary Scholarship Fund is dedicated to advancing African Americans in the medical and healthcare profession.

  • Amount: Varies annually and is based on academic excellence and financial need

  • Deadline: April 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: African American students who are graduating High School Seniors from anywhere in the United States. Applicants must attend a two or four-year university or technical school.


ABC Humane Wildlife Women In STEM Academic Scholarship

Founded in 1976 by a wildlife biologist, ABC Humane Wildlife Control & Prevention, Inc. continues to be operated by epidemiologists, biologists, and other scientists dedicated to mitigating human-wildlife conflict. It offers this scholarship, which is designed to increase the number of women studying and influencing the future of science, including technology, engineering, and math.

Applicants will be required to submit an essay, proof of enrollment, and one letter to serve as an academic reference. Funds may be used for academic projects, tuition, medical expenses, living expenses, housing, transportation, or other education-related costs.

  • Amount: $1,000

  • Deadline: July 2023 (estimated)

  • Who Should Apply: This scholarship is open only to graduate or undergraduate female students enrolling or continuing in STEM fields of study at accredited universities.


Lisa Kaminski Memorial Scholarship

Lisa Kaminski, who was diagnosed with melanoma in 2014, was frequently seen supporting her favorite charities by wearing their t-shirt and a smile, passing out sunscreens, and encouraging others to brighten someone else’s day. After she passed away in 2017, her friends and family wanted to keep her memory alive and continue her passion for helping others.

This scholarship is a way to preserve the legacy of Lisa Kaminski. Graduating high school students that are passionate about making a difference and are interested in technology are provided with an opportunity to continue their education through this scholarship.

  • Amount: $2,500

  • Deadline: Applications for 2023 are not yet available

  • Who Should Apply: High school seniors in the Greater Cincinnati area intending a major in a STEM-related field. Preference will be given to women candidates.


Zoetis Foundation/AVMF Veterinary Technician Student Scholarship

The Zoetis Foundation and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation are pleased to announce the 2022 Zoetis Foundation/AVMF Veterinary Technician Student Scholarship Program. 2022 is the inaugural year of this program which was developed to offset educational expenses related to attaining a veterinary education. The program focuses on addressing the issue of student debt and the need to foster diversity in the profession - issues that greatly impact the future of the veterinary profession.

The application cycle for this scholarship is now closed. Check back here or watch the AVMF Facebook page for more information.

In addition to the traditional selection criteria of academic excellence and financial need, the scholarships will focus on meeting the ongoing needs of the veterinary profession – diversity, sustainability, and mixed/rural medicine practices. Scholarships will be awarded to students with career interests in all areas, including food animal medicine, small animal clinical medicine, research, government services, public health, organized veterinary medicine, etc.

  • Must be currently enrolled as a full-time student in good standing at an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology, veterinary nursing, or animal health technology program in the United States or Puerto Rico.

  • At the time of application, the student must be entering the 2nd year of a 2-year program (or equivalent for term-based programs), or In the 3rd year of a 4-year (or equivalent for term-based programs) AVMA-accredited veterinary technology - veterinary nursing or animal health technology program (or equivalent for term-based programs) in the United States or Puerto Rico.

  • Applications are no longer being accepted for 2022-2023.

  • Fully completed applications will be accepted through October 7, 2022, at 11:59 pm EST

  • Award notification and check disbursement: spring 2023 semester

Through the Zoetis Foundation/AVMF Veterinary Technician Student Scholarship Program, AVMF and school leadership will identify outstanding veterinary technician students who can help address our changing world and the health, food, and welfare needs of the U.S. veterinary community.

Website: https://www.avmf.org/veterinarytechnicians


NAVTA- Boehringer Ingelheim Tuition for Vet Techs Scholarship Program

“NAVTA is dedicated to advancing the profession of veterinary nursing through advocacy, awareness, and professional development,” says NAVTA President Ashli Selke, RVT, LVT. “The Tuition for Vet Techs Scholarship will help an entire generation of students pursue their career in veterinary nursing with less financial burden.”

The scholarship funds may be used for payment of tuition fees, supplies for classes/labs, and textbooks. The scholarship funds will be mailed directly to the applicant’s school and/or program director. Applicants can apply and be awarded the scholarship once per calendar year, so long as they meet the application eligibility requirements.

ELIGIBILITY

  • Must be a veterinary technology/nursing student enrolled full time in an AVMA-accredited program (on-campus or distance learning) that has completed at least one year of program requirements

  • Submit transcripts (official or unofficial is acceptable) showing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

  • Submit a letter from the Registrar (or program director) confirming current enrollment at full-time status

  • Submit a minimum of one professional letter of recommendation (e.g., program director, faculty, advisor, DVM, credentialed veterinary technician) (maximum of 3)

  • NAVTA Student Membership required (SCNAVTA membership preferred)

  • Submit a 500-word essay that addresses the following subject(s):

    • Where do you see the future of the veterinary technology/nursing profession 5-10 years from now?

    • How will you contribute to the veterinary technology/nursing profession?

    • What are your career goals?

Applications are now being accepted, and the deadline for application submission is June 30, 2022. Recipients of the Tuition for Vet Techs Scholarship shall be selected by the NAVTA/BI Scholarship Task Force. Each application will be assessed by the Task Force based on the meeting of eligibility criteria, professionalism of the application, and essay completeness, spelling, and grammar. NAVTA will notify the winning applicants by September 30, 2022. The winning applicants will be announced publicly and officially awarded during National Veterinary Technician Week, October 16-22, 2022.

A completed application form should be submitted via the online portal at https://navta.net/tuition-for-techs/

For more information, please contact info@navta.net.