How do you get HPSP Scholarship

11 min readDec 25, 2023

Are you a budding medical professional with dreams of serving in the U.S. Armed Forces? If so, then you’ve probably heard about the highly coveted Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP). This prestigious scholarship not only provides financial support for your education but also opens up incredible opportunities to serve as a military healthcare provider. But here’s the burning question: How do you actually secure this life-changing scholarship? In this blog post, we will unveil all the insider tips and tricks on how to get an HPSP scholarship, ensuring that you’re one step closer to fulfilling your passion while proudly serving our nation. So buckle up, because we’re about to embark on an exciting journey towards achieving your dreams!

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Eligibility Requirements

The HPSP (Health Professions Scholarship Program) scholarship is a highly competitive program that provides financial assistance to students pursuing medical, dental, or veterinary degrees. This scholarship covers tuition fees, books and supplies, and a monthly stipend for living expenses while in school. However, not everyone is eligible to apply for this prestigious scholarship. In this section, we will discuss the eligibility requirements for the HPSP scholarship.

1. Citizenship Status:

To be eligible for the HPSP scholarship, you must be a U.S citizen or a permanent resident of the United States. Non-U.S citizens are not eligible to apply for this scholarship.

2. Academic Requirements:

The HPSP scholarship is awarded to individuals who have excelled academically and demonstrated strong potential in their chosen field of study. To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

3. Enrollment Status:

To qualify for the HPSP scholarship, applicants must be enrolled or accepted into an accredited medical school, dental school or veterinary school in the United States or Puerto Rico at the time of application.

4. Field of Study:

As mentioned earlier, the HPSP scholarship is only available to students pursuing degrees in medicine (allopathic or osteopathic), dentistry (DMD or DDS), optometry (OD), podiatry (DPM), physician assistant studies (PA-C) or veterinary medicine (DVM). Applicants pursuing other fields of study are not eligible for this scholarship.

5. Obligations:

By accepting the HPSP scholarship, recipients agree to serve as active duty officers in the U.S. Army, Navy, or Air Force upon completion of their degree program. The length of service commitment varies depending on the selected branch and specialty.

6. Physical Requirements:

All applicants must meet the physical standards set by their selected branch of service. This includes being in good physical and mental health and meeting certain vision and hearing requirements.

7. Age Limit:

Applicants must be under the age of 42 at the time of enrollment in their chosen program to be eligible for the HPSP scholarship. However, there may be age waivers available for certain specialties.

8. Criminal History:

Applicants with a criminal history may not be eligible for the HPSP scholarship. Each branch of service has different criteria for evaluating criminal records, so it is best to contact a recruiter for more information.

9. Other Requirements:

Applicants must also meet other eligibility requirements set by their selected branch of service, such as passing a physical fitness test and participating in an interview process.

Overall, to be considered for the HPSP scholarship, applicants must have strong academic credentials, be physically fit and meet all other eligibility requirements set by their selected branch of service. It is important to note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection for the scholarship, as it is a highly competitive program.

Application Process

The application process for the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) scholarship is a multi-step and highly competitive process. It requires careful planning, dedication, and attention to detail in order to increase your chances of being selected for the scholarship.

Step 1: Research Eligibility Criteria

Before beginning the application process, it is essential to research and understand the eligibility criteria for the HPSP scholarship. This includes being a U.S. citizen, having an acceptance or enrollment into an accredited medical or dental school program, and meeting certain academic requirements such as a minimum GPA.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Once you have confirmed your eligibility, it is important to gather all necessary documents required for the application. These may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and proof of citizenship. It is important to keep these documents organized and readily available throughout the application process.

Step 3: Complete Online Application

The HPSP scholarship utilizes an online portal known as “Apply Yourself” for all applications. The first step in this process is creating a login account with a unique username and password. Once registered, you can access the application form which will require personal information, academic history, work experience, extracurricular activities, and essays.

Step 4: Submit Transcripts

Transcripts are one of the most important components of your HPSP application as they provide insight into your academic performance. You will need to submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended directly to the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB).

Step 5: Obtain Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are a crucial part of your HPSP application as they provide insight into your character, work ethic, and potential as a military officer. You will need to obtain three letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your academic, professional, or personal qualifications.

Step 6: Complete Medical Exam

As you will be serving as a commissioned officer in the military, you must undergo a medical examination to ensure that you are physically qualified for service. This examination is conducted by the DoDMERB and includes vision, hearing, blood tests, and physical measurements.

Step 7: Submit Application

Once all required documents have been gathered and completed, it is time to submit your application. Make sure to review all information carefully before submitting to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Step 8: Await Selection Results

The selection process for the HPSP scholarship is highly competitive and typically takes several months. If selected, you will receive notification via email or postal mail regarding your scholarship status.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Start Early: The application process for HPSP scholarship can be time-consuming and competitive. It is important to start early and plan ahead in order to have enough time to gather all the necessary documents, complete the required forms, and submit your application before the deadline.

2. Understand the Requirements: Before applying for the HPSP scholarship, make sure you understand all the eligibility requirements and criteria. This includes being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, meeting academic qualifications, and passing a medical examination.

3. Research Your Branch: The HPSP scholarship is offered by different branches of the military including Army, Navy, Air Force, and Public Health Service (PHS). Each branch has its own unique requirements and expectations from applicants. Do some research on each branch to determine which one aligns with your career goals and interests.

4. Highlight Your Leadership Experience: As an officer in the military, leadership skills are highly valued. Make sure to highlight any leadership experience you have had in your personal or professional life in your application essay or resume. This could include volunteer work, extracurricular activities, or work experience.

5. Show Your Commitment: The HPSP scholarship is a significant commitment as it requires serving in the military upon completion of your education program. It is important to demonstrate your commitment to this service through strong motivation and passion for joining the armed forces.

6. Get Strong References: Good references are crucial for any successful application process. Choose individuals who can speak to your academic abilities, leadership skills, and potential for success in the military. It is also helpful to have at least one reference from a military personnel or someone familiar with the HPSP program.

7. Pay Attention to Detail: The application process requires submitting various documents and forms, so it is important to pay attention to detail and make sure all information is accurate and complete. Keep track of deadlines and submit all required materials on time.

8. Practice for Interviews: If you are selected as a top candidate, you may be invited for an interview as part of the selection process. Practice your interview skills beforehand by researching common interview questions and practicing with a friend or mentor.

9. Be Honest: It is important to be honest throughout the application process, especially during interviews. The military values integrity and honesty, so it is important to be truthful about your background and qualifications.

10. Stay Positive: The HPSP scholarship can be a competitive process, so it is important to stay positive even if you are not selected on your first attempt. Continue to work towards your goal and apply again in the future if necessary.

Benefits of the HPSP Scholarship

The Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) is a highly competitive scholarship program offered by the United States Armed Forces. It provides financial assistance to students pursuing degrees in various health professions, including medicine, dentistry, optometry, and more. Here are some of the key benefits of the HPSP scholarship that make it a coveted opportunity for aspiring healthcare professionals:

1. Full Tuition Coverage: One of the biggest advantages of the HPSP scholarship is that it covers all tuition costs for your chosen degree program. This can save you thousands of dollars in student loan debt and allow you to focus on your studies without worrying about financial constraints.

2. Monthly Stipend: In addition to covering tuition fees, the HPSP scholarship also provides a monthly stipend to cover living expenses. The amount varies depending on your chosen health profession and can range from $2,200-$2,500 per month.

3. Guaranteed Job after Graduation: Upon completion of your degree program, you will be commissioned as an officer in the military and serve in one of its branches — Army, Navy or Air Force -depending on where there is a need for healthcare professionals at that time. This means you will have job security upon graduation and have an opportunity to serve your country while practicing your chosen healthcare profession.

4. Hands-on Experience: The HPSP scholarship offers students opportunities for hands-on experience through rotations at military hospitals and clinics during their summer breaks or elective periods. This allows scholars to gain invaluable experience working alongside experienced healthcare professionals in a military setting.

5. Mentorship and Support: HPSP scholars receive mentoring and support from experienced military healthcare professionals throughout their degree program. This can be a valuable resource for students as they navigate their education and future military career.

6. Leadership Development: As an HPSP scholar, you will also have the opportunity to participate in leadership development programs offered by the military. These programs help prepare scholars for future leadership roles in their respective fields.

7. Loan Repayment Options: If you already have student loan debt prior to receiving the HPSP scholarship, you may be eligible for loan repayment options through the military after graduation. This can further reduce your financial burden and allow you to focus on your career.

Common Misconceptions about the HPSP Scholarship

The Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) is a highly sought-after scholarship for individuals pursuing a career in the medical field. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this program that can often deter potential applicants from applying. In this section, we will address and debunk some of the common misconceptions about the HPSP scholarship.

Misconception #1: Only Medical Students Can Apply

One of the most common misconceptions about the HPSP scholarship is that it is only available to medical students. While medical students do make up a significant portion of recipients, this scholarship is also open to students pursuing degrees in other health professions such as dentistry, nursing, optometry, and psychology.

Misconception #2: The Scholarship Only Covers Tuition Fees

Another prevalent misconception about the HPSP scholarship is that it only covers tuition fees. In reality, this program provides full tuition coverage for your chosen degree program along with a monthly stipend for living expenses and an annual book allowance. Additionally, all mandatory fees such as lab fees and equipment costs are also covered by the scholarship.

Misconception #3: You Must Serve in Active Duty During Your Studies

Many people believe that they must serve in active duty immediately after receiving the HPSP scholarship while completing their studies. This is not entirely accurate. The commitment period for HPSP recipients begins after they have completed their degree program and residency training if applicable. It typically involves serving as an officer in either active or reserve duty for one year for every year of scholarship support received.

Misconception #4: The Scholarship is Only Available to Military Members

While the HPSP scholarship is primarily offered by the military, you do not need to be an active member of the armed forces to apply. In fact, most recipients are civilians who receive commissions as officers in the U.S. Army, Navy, or Air Force Health Services Corps upon completion of their studies.

Misconception #5: You Must Join a Specific Branch of the Military

Another common misconception about the HPSP scholarship is that you must join a specific branch of the military upon completion of your studies. In reality, recipients have some flexibility in choosing which branch they will serve in. Although the majority choose to serve in the same branch that provided their scholarship, it is possible to request a transfer after completing your studies.

Misconception #6: The Scholarship is Only for Medical School or Residency Programs

While many recipients do use this scholarship to cover tuition for medical school or residency programs, it can also be used for undergraduate and graduate programs in other health professions such as nursing, optometry, and dentistry.

Personal Stories and Testimonials from Recipients

Personal stories and testimonials from recipients of the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) offer valuable insight into the application process, benefits, and overall experience of being a scholarship recipient.

One such personal story is that of Sarah, a medical student who received the HPSP scholarship to fund her education. She shared her experience by saying, “Applying for the HPSP scholarship was one of the best decisions I have made in my career as a healthcare professional. Not only did it alleviate the financial burden of medical school, but it also provided me with unique opportunities for hands-on training and clinical rotations.”

Sarah went on to explain how the scholarship allowed her to focus on her studies without having to worry about student loans or working part-time jobs. “I was able to fully immerse myself in my medical education and take advantage of all the resources available to me,” she said.

In addition to financial support, many HPSP recipients also value the mentorship they receive from military physicians during their service commitment. John, an Army reservist who received the scholarship while pursuing his dental degree, shared his testimonial by saying, “The guidance and support I received from my supervising dentist during my service obligation were invaluable. It not only improved my clinical skills but also helped shape me into a well-rounded practitioner.”

For some recipients like Emily, an Air Force officer pursuing a nursing degree with HPSP support, joining the military through this program has been a life-changing experience. “Before receiving this scholarship, I never considered joining the military. But now, I can’t imagine my life without it,” she said. “The sense of camaraderie and purpose I feel as a member of the Air Force is unmatched. I am proud to serve my country while also fulfilling my passion for nursing.”

These personal stories and testimonials from HPSP recipients highlight the myriad benefits of this scholarship program, including financial support, mentorship opportunities, and a sense of purpose and fulfillment through service to one’s country. If you are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare and serving in the military, consider applying for the HPSP scholarship today.

Conclusion

The HPSP scholarship is a great opportunity for those pursuing a career in the military as well as healthcare. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of being selected for this prestigious scholarship. Remember to start early and stay organized, and most importantly, be passionate about serving your country and helping others through healthcare. With determination and hard work, you could become one of the many successful recipients of the HPSP scholarship. Go out there and make a difference!