Nutrition Scholarships 2025: How to Find the Best Opportunities and Qualify for Funding to Cover Your Dietetics Degree
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation alone provides over $250,000 in annual scholarships. Combined with state associations, ACEND programs, and private organizations, total nutrition scholarship funding exceeds $1 million annually. Awards range from $500 to $20,000, with most applications opening between February and April for the following academic year.
The cost of pursuing a degree in nutrition or dietetics can feel overwhelming. Between tuition, textbooks, dietetic internship fees, and living expenses, students often graduate with significant debt. However, here’s the good news: the nutrition and dietetics field offers extensive scholarship opportunities that many students are unaware of.
Whether you’re pursuing an associate degree to become a dietetic technician, a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, or a graduate degree to become a registered dietitian, scholarships can significantly reduce your education costs. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about finding and winning nutrition scholarships in 2025.
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Purdue Global's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Program is an approved holistic nutrition education program through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP).
UNC's MPH Nutrition concentration prepares students to provide, evaluate and communicate nutritional and dietary guidance that improves individual and population-wide health outcomes. In addition to developing their knowledge of nutrition science, students will explore behavior change, communication, counseling and the effects of dietary culture on individuals and communities.
Walden University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Studies - Health Promotion and Wellness gains job-ready, immediately applicable skills today's employers want.
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
From the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation’s 250+ scholarship programs to state association funding and university-specific awards, we’ll show you where to find money for your nutrition education and how to make your applications stand out.
Find the Scholarships and Guidance You’re Looking For
Types of Nutrition and Dietetics Scholarships
Major Scholarship Opportunities for Nutrition Students
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation Scholarships
State Dietetic Association Scholarships
ACEND Program-Specific Scholarships
How to Find Nutrition Scholarships
Scholarship Application Tips for Nutrition Students
Types of Nutrition and Dietetics Scholarships
Nutrition scholarships come from diverse sources, each with different eligibility requirements, award amounts, and application processes. Understanding the scholarship landscape helps you identify which opportunities match your academic level, career goals, and personal background.
Federal and Government Scholarships
Federal aid is primarily provided through grants, such as the Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), rather than scholarships. However, some government agencies offer nutrition-specific funding for students pursuing careers in public health nutrition in the US. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) occasionally offer scholarship programs for students pursuing research in food science and nutrition.
Professional Organization Scholarships
Professional associations represent the largest source of nutrition scholarships. These organizations invest in the next generation of nutrition professionals through annual scholarship programs. Key organizations include:
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation (the largest provider with 250+ annual scholarships)
- Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
- American Society for Nutrition (ASN)
- Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB)
- American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN)
State Dietetic Association Scholarships
Each state’s affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers scholarships to residents pursuing careers in the field of nutrition. These scholarships typically range from $500 to $3,000 and prioritize students attending in-state programs or planning to practice in that state. Check with your state’s specific nutrition requirements to understand residency considerations.
Institutional Scholarships
Universities with ACEND-accredited nutrition programs often provide department-specific scholarships. These awards may be merit-based, need-based, or awarded for academic achievement in nutrition coursework. Many schools also offer research assistantships and teaching assistantships for graduate students.
Private Foundation and Corporate Scholarships
Food companies, healthcare organizations, and private foundations offer scholarships to students pursuing a career in nutrition. Companies like Abbott Nutrition, Nestle, and PepsiCo provide awards to students interested in food science and clinical nutrition. Local community foundations also frequently include nutrition and healthcare scholarships in their portfolios.
Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships
The nutrition profession actively works to increase diversity through targeted scholarships. Programs like the CDR’s Expanding the Reach of Dietetics Fund support students from underrepresented populations who are well-positioned to work with diverse communities. Many state associations also offer diversity scholarships.
Specialty Focus Scholarships
Some scholarships target specific nutrition specialties:
- Sports nutrition scholarships for students pursuing sports dietetics credentials
- Clinical nutrition awards for students interested in medical nutrition therapy
- Public health nutrition funding for students focusing on community nutrition
- Pediatric nutrition scholarships for those specializing in child nutrition
- Gerontological nutrition awards for students interested in aging populations
Major Scholarship Opportunities for Nutrition Students
Knowing which scholarships offer the highest awards and best odds helps you prioritize your application efforts. The following table highlights significant scholarship opportunities available to students of nutrition and dietetics at all academic levels.
Scholarship Name | Organization | Award Amount | Eligibility | Application Period |
---|---|---|---|---|
Advancing Practice Scholarship | Commission on Dietetic Registration | $10,000-$20,000 | RDs pursuing advanced certifications | Opens each February |
Doctoral Scholarship Fund | Commission on Dietetic Registration | $10,000 | RDs pursuing doctoral degrees | Opens each February |
Expanding the Reach of Dietetics | Commission on Dietetic Registration | $5,000 | Students from underrepresented populations | Opens each February |
Expanding the Reach: Interns | Commission on Dietetic Registration | $10,000 | Dietetic interns with high financial need | Opens each February |
AND Foundation Scholarships | Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation | $500-$5,000 (some up to $10,000+) | Undergraduate, graduate, and dietetic interns | Opens April, closes May |
ASPEN Undergraduate Scholarship | American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition | $2,500 | Undergraduate nutrition students | January-March |
State Affiliate Scholarships (links below) | State Dietetic Associations | $500-$5,000 | State residents pursuing nutrition degrees | Varies by state (typically spring) |
Les Dames d’Escoffier Scholarships | Les Dames d’Escoffier International (Various Chapters) | $1,000-$5,000 | Female students in culinary, food science, or nutrition programs | Varies by chapter |
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Diversity Scholarships | Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics | Varies | Students from underrepresented ethnic/racial groups | Opens April |
Abbott Nutrition Scholarships | Abbott Nutrition | $2,000-$5,000 | Nutrition students with an interest in clinical nutrition | Through the AND Foundation application |
These represent just a fraction of available scholarships. Many additional awards exist at the institutional, regional, and local levels. The key is to apply broadly and strategically.
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation Scholarships
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation stands as the single largest provider of dietetics scholarships in the United States. With over 250 scholarships available annually, the Foundation awards hundreds of thousands of dollars to deserving nutrition students at every academic level.
What makes the AND Foundation scholarship program particularly student-friendly is the universal application system. Instead of completing separate applications for each scholarship, you submit one comprehensive application, and the Foundation automatically considers you for all scholarships matching your profile. This efficient system saves time while maximizing your chances of receiving funding.
Scholarship Categories
The Foundation organizes scholarships into several categories:
Undergraduate Scholarships support students enrolled in ACEND-accredited Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD). These scholarships recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to the nutrition profession. Most awards range from $500 to $5,000, with a few prestigious scholarships exceeding $10,000.
Dietetic Intern Scholarships help offset the significant costs of completing a dietetic internship. With many internships requiring full-time participation that limits students’ ability to work, these scholarships provide crucial financial support. Awards range from $1,000 to $10,000.
Graduate Student Scholarships support students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in nutrition and dietetics. These awards recognize academic excellence and research potential, with amounts typically ranging from $1,000 to $5,00; however, some specialized scholarships offer higher amounts.
Continuing Education Scholarships support practicing registered dietitians who are pursuing advanced certifications, additional degrees, or specialized training. These scholarships recognize that professional development is a continuous process throughout one’s career.
Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships are specifically designed to support students from underrepresented populations in the field of nutrition. The Foundation recognizes that increasing diversity strengthens the profession’s ability to serve diverse communities effectively.
Application Requirements
To apply for AND Foundation scholarships, you must:
- Be an Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics member (student membership available)
- Be enrolled in or accepted to an ACEND-accredited program (for undergraduate and internship scholarships)
- Maintain good academic standing
- Submit official transcripts
- Provide letters of recommendation
- Write a personal statement explaining your career goals and financial needs
- Complete the FAFSA (required for most scholarships)
The application typically opens in mid-April and closes in mid-May. Award notifications go out in late summer, with funds disbursed directly to your educational institution for the upcoming academic year.
Many scholarships within the Foundation’s portfolio come with additional benefits beyond financial awards. Recipients gain recognition that enhances their professional credentials, networking opportunities with scholarship donors and Foundation leaders, and sometimes mentorship from established dietetics professionals.
State Dietetic Association Scholarships
Every state has an affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and most offer scholarships to students residing in or attending school in that state. State association scholarships offer an often-overlooked funding source that many students overlook, as they tend to focus solely on national opportunities.
State scholarships typically favor applicants who demonstrate commitment to practicing in that state after graduation. If you plan to build your career in a specific location, state association scholarships offer a more favorable opportunity compared to national competitions. Award amounts typically range from $500 to $3,000, although some states provide significantly higher awards.
Application Process
State scholarship applications vary, but generally require:
- Membership in the state dietetic association (student rates available)
- Proof of state residency or enrollment in an in-state program
- Academic transcripts showing good standing
- Letters of recommendation from professors or dietetics professionals
- Personal statement addressing your career goals
- Some states require attendance at the state association’s annual meeting
Application deadlines typically fall between January and April, with awards announced in spring or early summer. Many state associations present scholarship awards at their annual conferences, giving recipients valuable networking opportunities.
Geographic Considerations
Some states have particularly robust scholarship programs due to active foundations or generous donors. States with large populations of dietetics professionals or strong nutrition programs tend to offer more scholarship opportunities. However, even smaller states provide meaningful funding.
If you’re considering where to attend school, researching state association scholarships can be a factor in your decision. Some students strategically choose programs in states with strong scholarship support, particularly if they’re open to practicing in that location after graduation.
Below is a sample of state dietetic associations with active scholarship programs:
Check your state dietetic association’s website for current scholarship information, as award amounts and availability are subject to change annually based on fundraising and donor support.
ACEND Program-Specific Scholarships
Beyond national and state scholarships, ACEND-accredited nutrition programs often maintain their own scholarship funds. These program-specific awards can significantly reduce your education costs and frequently go to students attending that particular institution.
Universities with strong nutrition departments typically offer several types of program-specific funding. Departmental scholarships reward academic achievement in nutrition coursework, leadership in student dietetic associations, and commitment to the profession. These awards usually range from $500 to $3,000 per year.
Many programs designate scholarships for specific student populations or career interests. You might find scholarships for students interested in sports nutrition, clinical nutrition, or public health nutrition. Some programs offer awards specifically for students from underrepresented backgrounds or first-generation college students.
Graduate Assistantships and Research Opportunities
Graduate students have additional funding options through assistantships. Teaching assistantships provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for helping with undergraduate courses. Research assistantships fund your graduate education while you work on faculty research projects, often leading to publications and conference presentations that strengthen your professional portfolio.
These assistantships typically cover full tuition and provide monthly stipends ranging from $15,000 to $30,000 annually. While the work commitment is substantial, the financial support and professional development opportunities make graduate assistantships highly valuable.
Dietetic Internship Funding
Dietetic internships present unique financial challenges, as many require full-time participation, which limits your ability to work outside of the internship. However, some internship programs offer stipends, scholarships, or partnerships with healthcare facilities that provide funding.
When researching dietetic internship programs, be sure to investigate the available funding options. Some programs offer partial tuition waivers, others provide housing assistance, and a few offer full stipends. The financial support varies significantly between programs, so this should be a factor in your decision-making process for applications.
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Purdue Global's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Program is an approved holistic nutrition education program through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP).
UNC's MPH Nutrition concentration prepares students to provide, evaluate and communicate nutritional and dietary guidance that improves individual and population-wide health outcomes. In addition to developing their knowledge of nutrition science, students will explore behavior change, communication, counseling and the effects of dietary culture on individuals and communities.
Walden University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Studies - Health Promotion and Wellness gains job-ready, immediately applicable skills today's employers want.
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
How to Find Program-Specific Scholarships
Contact the financial aid office and the nutrition department at the schools you’re considering. Ask specific questions:
- What departmental scholarships are available for nutrition students?
- Do you offer scholarships for particular nutrition specialties?
- Are there endowed scholarships restricted to nutrition majors?
- What graduate assistantships are available?
- Do dietetic interns receive any financial support?
Many program-specific scholarships require separate applications from the general financial aid process. Mark these deadlines carefully and submit applications even if you haven’t been admitted yet. Some programs automatically consider admitted students for scholarships, while others require you to apply actively.
Schools appreciate students who take initiative in researching funding opportunities. Your questions about scholarships demonstrate seriousness about attending their program and financial awareness that successful students possess.
How to Find Nutrition Scholarships
Finding scholarships requires strategy and persistence. While major scholarships like those from the AND Foundation are well-publicized, hundreds of smaller opportunities exist if you know where to look. Casting a wide net increases your chances of securing funding.
Professional Organization Websites
Begin with professional organizations in the field of nutrition. Beyond the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, explore:
- American Society for Nutrition
- Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior
- American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
- School Nutrition Association
- International Society of Sports Nutrition
- Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals: ANFP
- National WIC Association
Each organization typically maintains a scholarship or awards page listing available funding for students and professionals. Even if you’re not yet a member, many organizations allow students to join at reduced rates that quickly pay for themselves through scholarship access.
University Financial Aid Offices
Don’t overlook your own institution’s resources. University financial aid offices maintain lists of external scholarships relevant to their students. Schedule an appointment with a financial aid counselor specializing in health sciences or nutrition programs. They often know about local and regional scholarships that are not listed in national databases.
Many schools maintain scholarship bulletin boards or online portals listing opportunities specifically for current students. Check these resources regularly, as new scholarships are posted throughout the academic year.
Community and Regional Sources
Local scholarships often have less competition than national awards. Explore:
- Community foundations in your city or county
- Local chapters of service organizations (Rotary Club, Kiwanis, Lions Club)
- Healthcare systems and hospitals in your area
- Regional dietetic practice groups
- Local chapters of professional organizations
- County or regional dietetic associations
These organizations frequently offer scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,000 with applicant pools of only 20-50 students, rather than thousands. Your odds of winning dramatically improve.
Food Industry and Corporate Scholarships
Food and nutrition companies invest in future professionals through scholarship programs. Research opportunities from:
- Food manufacturers (General Mills, Kellogg’s, Nestle)
- Clinical nutrition companies (Abbott Nutrition, Nestle Health Science)
- Grocery chains (Whole Foods, Kroger)
- Supplement companies
- Food service companies (Aramark, Sodexo)
- Healthcare nutrition companies
Some corporate scholarships are distributed through the AND Foundation, while others maintain independent application processes. Company websites usually list scholarship information in their community involvement or careers sections.
Create a Scholarship Tracking System
Organization is critical when applying to multiple scholarships. Create a spreadsheet tracking:
- Scholarship name and organization
- Award amount
- Application deadline
- Requirements (essays, letters of recommendation, transcripts)
- Application status
- Award notification date
Update this tracker weekly and set calendar reminders two weeks before each deadline. This system ensures you never miss an opportunity due to poor organization.
Scholarship Application Tips for Nutrition Students
Submitting strong scholarship applications requires more than good grades. Selection committees seek candidates who demonstrate a genuine passion for nutrition, a clear career direction, and the potential to make meaningful contributions to the profession.
Start Early and Stay Organized
Begin researching scholarships at least one year before you need funding. Many students make the mistake of waiting until they’re already enrolled to seek scholarships, missing application deadlines. Create your scholarship tracking system early and build a timeline that works backward from the deadlines.
Gather required materials well in advance. Request official transcripts from your registrar, allowing several weeks for processing. Request letters of recommendation at least one month in advance of your need. Draft essays early enough to revise multiple times.
Craft Compelling Essays
Your personal statement often determines whether you receive a scholarship. Selection committees read hundreds of applications, so yours must stand out. Successful scholarship essays share common elements:
Tell Your Story – Explain what drew you to nutrition. Maybe you witnessed a family member’s health transformation through dietary changes. Perhaps you experienced your own health challenges that sparked interest in nutrition science. Maybe you volunteered at a food bank and saw the impact of nutrition education. Personal narratives create emotional connections with readers.
Demonstrate Passion – Show genuine enthusiasm for nutrition and the field of dietetics. Discuss nutrition books you’ve read, podcasts you follow, or nutrition social media accounts that inspire you. Mention nutrition professionals you admire and why. This demonstrates you’re serious about the field beyond classroom requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience – Detail your nutrition-related activities and experiences. Have you volunteered at hospitals, food banks, or community health centers? Do you work in food service? Have you shadowed registered dietitians? Explain what you learned from these experiences and how they confirmed your career choice.
Address Financial Need Honestly – If the scholarship considers financial need, be straightforward about your situation. Explain your family’s financial circumstances, how you’re funding your education, and why this scholarship would make a difference. Avoid overly emotional appeals, but don’t minimize genuine challenges.
Articulate Clear Goals – Scholarship committees invest in students with direction. Explain your specific career goals. Don’t just say you want to be a registered dietitian; specify the setting you want to work in and populations you wish to serve. Discuss your plans for continuing education or specialty certifications.
Connect to the Scholarship’s Mission – Research the organization offering the scholarship. If it’s named after a person, learn about that individual’s contributions to the field of nutrition. If a company sponsors it, understand their mission. Reference these elements in your essay, showing you’ve taken time to understand what the scholarship represents.
Request Strong Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation carry significant weight in scholarship decisions. Choose recommenders wisely:
- Nutrition professors who know your academic abilities and classroom participation
- Registered dietitians you’ve shadowed or worked with who can speak to your professional potential
- Supervisors from nutrition-related volunteer work or employment
- Academic advisors who understand your career goals
Avoid asking for recommendations from people who can’t speak specifically about your qualifications, even if they have impressive titles. A detailed letter from a professor who knows you well outweighs a generic letter from a department chair who barely knows your name.
When requesting letters, provide recommenders with:
- Your resume or CV
- Your personal statement or essay for the scholarship
- A list of your accomplishments and activities
- Information about the scholarship and why you’re applying
- The submission deadline and method
Make it easy for recommenders to write strong letters by giving them ample time and comprehensive information about your qualifications.
Proofread Everything
Simple errors can disqualify otherwise strong applications. Proofread all materials multiple times. Read essays aloud to catch awkward phrasing. Use spell-check, but don’t rely on it exclusively. Ask someone else to review your application, preferably someone skilled at writing or editing.
Pay particular attention to:
- Spelling the scholarship name correctly
- Using the correct organization name
- Meeting word or page limits exactly
- Following formatting requirements
- Answering all the questions asked
- Including all required materials
Follow Directions Precisely
Scholarship committees often use adherence to directions as a screening tool. If the application requires a 500-word essay, don’t submit 750 words. If they request PDF format, don’t send a Word document. If they want two letters of recommendation, don’t send three.
Students who can’t follow simple application instructions raise concerns about their ability to follow professional protocols as future dietitians.
Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Think of scholarship applications in the same way as college applications. Apply to reach scholarships (highly competitive national awards), match scholarships (opportunities where you meet most criteria), and safety scholarships (local awards with smaller applicant pools).
Successful students typically submit 10-20 scholarship applications to receive 2-4 awards. While this requires significant effort, even one $2,000 scholarship justifies the time invested.
Reuse and Adapt Materials
Many scholarship applications request similar information. Create master versions of required materials, then adapt them for specific scholarships. Save well-written essays on common topics like “Why I chose nutrition” or “My career goals in dietetics.” You can modify these base essays rather than writing entirely new content for each application.
Similarly, maintain an updated resume highlighting your nutrition-related experiences, academic achievements, and professional memberships. Tailor this master resume for applications, emphasizing different aspects of your background.
Nutrition Scholarship Deadlines and Timelines
Understanding scholarship timelines helps you plan strategically and avoid missing opportunities. Most nutrition scholarships follow predictable annual cycles, allowing you to create a year-round application schedule.
Spring Scholarship Season (February-May)
The majority of nutrition scholarships have spring deadlines. The AND Foundation application typically opens in mid-April and closes in mid-May. Many state dietetic associations follow similar timelines, with applications due between February and April.
Commission on Dietetic Registration scholarships generally open each February with deadlines in March or April. University departmental scholarships often align with these national timelines.
This concentration of spring deadlines makes sense because selection committees want to award scholarships for the upcoming academic year, which begins in the fall. However, the compressed timeline means you must be prepared when applications open.
Fall and Winter Opportunities (September-January)
Some scholarships have fall or winter deadlines for the spring semester or the following year. State association scholarships occasionally become available in the fall, particularly for attending the spring conference.
Several corporate scholarships follow fiscal-year calendars that don’t align with academic deadlines. Research these opportunities year-round rather than assuming all scholarships follow the spring timeline.
Rolling Deadlines
A smaller number of scholarships accept applications on a rolling basis, reviewing candidates as they are received until the funds are exhausted. These scholarships favor early applicants, so apply as soon as you meet eligibility requirements.
Some university departmental scholarships and emergency funding opportunities operate on a rolling basis, allowing students to apply when unexpected financial needs arise.
Planning Your Scholarship Year
Create a scholarship application schedule that maximizes your opportunities:
Summer Before Your Academic Year
Research available scholarships and create your tracking spreadsheet. Update your resume with summer activities. Begin drafting master essays on common topics. Identify potential recommenders and inform them you’ll be applying for scholarships in the coming year.
September-December
Monitor scholarship databases for new opportunities. Apply to any scholarships with fall deadlines. Begin working on materials for spring applications, particularly essays that require significant time and revision. Request transcripts that will be current when spring applications open.
January-February
Finalize essays and application materials—request letters of recommendation for scholarships with March-April deadlines. Submit early applications as soon as the portals open.
March-May
Submit the bulk of your applications during this peak period. Double-check that all materials reach their destinations. Follow up on any pending letters of recommendation or documents.
Late Spring-Summer
Receive award notifications. Send thank-you notes to scholarship donors and committees. Update your financial aid package with scholarship awards. Research next year’s opportunities during quieter summer months.
FAFSA Timing
Don’t forget that many scholarships require completion of the FAFSA. The FAFSA opens October 1 each year for the following academic year. Complete it as soon as possible, as many federal and institutional scholarships require it for financial need evaluation. Some private scholarships don’t require FAFSA, but completing it early ensures you’re eligible for all opportunities.
Some scholarships specifically request your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from the FAFSA to assess financial need. Completing the FAFSA early ensures this information is available when scholarship applications open.
Application Fatigue
The concentration of deadlines in spring can be overwhelming. Pace yourself and prioritize applications. Apply first to scholarships where you firmly match the criteria, and the award amount justifies the effort. Some students get discouraged and stop applying after a few submissions, but persistence often pays off.
Remember that each application builds on previous ones. Your third or fourth essay will be stronger and faster to write than your first because you’ve refined your message and developed efficient writing processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much scholarship money is available for nutrition students?
Total nutrition scholarship funding exceeds $1 million annually when all sources are combined. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation alone provides over $250,000 through more than 250 scholarships. State associations collectively contribute hundreds of thousands more. ACEND-accredited programs offer institutional scholarships, and corporate sponsors provide additional funding. Individual awards range from $500 to $20,000, with most falling between $1,000 and $5,000.
Can I apply for scholarships as an associate degree student?
Yes, associate degree students in ACEND-accredited Dietetic Technician programs are eligible to apply for numerous scholarships. The AND Foundation offers specific scholarships for students pursuing a career as a dietetic technician. Many state associations include associate degree students in their scholarship programs. Some scholarships don’t specify degree level, making them available to all nutrition students. University departmental scholarships at schools with associate degree programs also support these students.
Do I need to be a registered dietitian to qualify for scholarships?
No, you don’t need RD credentials to apply for most nutrition scholarships. Undergraduate scholarships are designed for students pursuing their first degree in nutrition. Dietetic internship scholarships support students who haven’t yet taken the RUSam. However, some scholarships specifically fund continuing education for practicing RDs seeking advanced certifications or additional degrees. Read the eligibility requirements carefully, as they vary by scholarship.
Can international students apply for nutrition scholarships?
Most scholarships from the AND Foundation and state associations require US citizenship or permanent residency. The Commission on Dietetic Registration scholarships similarly restrict eligibility to US citizens or permanent residents. However, some university departmental scholarships at institutions with international student populations may be open to students on F-1 visas. International students should carefully review each scholarship’s eligibility criteria and focus on opportunities that don’t restrict citizenship status, though these are limited.
Are there scholarships specifically for dietetic internships?
Yes, several organizations offer scholarships specifically for dietetic interns. The CDR’s Expanding the Reach of Dietetics: Scholarship for Interns Fund provides $10,000 awards to interns with high financial need. The AND Foundation administers numerous dietetic internship scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Many state associations offer internship-specific awards. Some internship programs also provide stipends or scholarships to accepted students. Given the financial burden of full-time, often unpaid internships, these scholarships are particularly valuable.
How competitive are nutrition scholarships?
Competition varies significantly by scholarship. National AND Foundation scholarships receive hundreds or thousands of applications for each award, making them highly competitive. State association scholarships typically have smaller applicant pools, improving your odds. Local and university scholarships may have only 20-50 applicants per award. Specialized scholarships targeting specific populations or interests often receive fewer applications than general nutrition scholarships. Your best strategy combines applications to various competition levels.
Can I receive multiple scholarships at once?
Yes, students often receive multiple scholarships simultaneously. There’s no rule limiting how many scholarships you can win. However, some scholarships specify they’re non-renewable if you accept others, and some universities have policies about total scholarship amounts exceeding tuition costs. Always report all scholarships to your financial aid office to ensure compliance with your school’s policies and regulations. In most cases, multiple scholarships combine to reduce your overall education costs without restrictions.
What happens if I don’t use my scholarship funds?
Scholarship funds are typically sent directly to your educational institution and applied to tuition, fees, books, or other qualified education expenses. If your total scholarships and financial aid exceed your qualified expenses, you may receive a refund check for the overage, which you can use for living expenses. If you withdraw from school or fail to meet scholarship conditions (such as maintaining the required GPA), you may be required to return the funds. Always review each scholarship’s specific terms regarding fund usage and refund policies.
Are there scholarships for online nutrition programs?
Yes, many scholarships support students in online ACEND-accredited programs. The AND Foundation doesn’t distinguish between online and on-campus programs as long as they’re ACEND-accredited. State associations may consider online students who are state residents or whose program is based in that state. University departmental scholarships typically support online students enrolled in their programs. When applying, emphasize that your online program is ACEND-accredited, which is the key credential requirement rather than the delivery format.
Do I need to repay nutrition scholarships?
No, scholarships are gift aid that doesn’t require repayment. This distinguishes scholarships from student loans. However, some scholarships may include service requirements or work commitments, such as working in a particular setting or underserved area for a specified period after graduation. These service obligations are different from financial repayment. Read scholarship terms carefully to understand any obligations beyond financial. As long as you meet the scholarship’s conditions (maintaining the required GPA, staying enrolled, using funds for qualified expenses, and fulfilling any service commitments), you won’t need to repay the money.
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Purdue Global's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Program is an approved holistic nutrition education program through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP).
UNC's MPH Nutrition concentration prepares students to provide, evaluate and communicate nutritional and dietary guidance that improves individual and population-wide health outcomes. In addition to developing their knowledge of nutrition science, students will explore behavior change, communication, counseling and the effects of dietary culture on individuals and communities.
Walden University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Studies - Health Promotion and Wellness gains job-ready, immediately applicable skills today's employers want.
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
- The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation provides over $250,000 annually through more than 250 scholarships, with combined funding from other sources exceeding $1 million in total nutrition scholarships.
- State dietetic association scholarships offer less competition and good odds for students committed to practicing in that state.
- ACEND-accredited program scholarships and graduate assistantships can significantly reduce education costs, particularly at the master’s and doctoral levels.
- Start your scholarship search 12-18 months before you need funding to avoid missing critical deadlines.
- Most nutrition scholarship applications open in spring (February-May) for the following academic year
- Apply to 10-20 scholarships to increase your chances of receiving multiple awards.s
- Strong personal statements that clearly explain your passion for nutrition and articulate your career goals are essential for competitive applications.
- Complete the FAFSA early, as many federal and institutional scholarships require it for financial need evaluation. Some private scholarships may not require a FAFSA.
- Request letters of recommendation at least one month before deadlines from people who know your work and potential well
- Don’t limit applications to national scholarships – local and regional opportunities often have better odds.
Ready to Fund Your Nutrition Education?
Explore ACEND-accredited nutrition and dietetics programs that qualify you for these scholarships and prepare you for a rewarding career in USnutrition.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for dietitians and nutritionists and dietetic technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2025.