FAQ: Nurses of Tomorrow: Valley Health’s Future Caregiver Scholarship
Q: Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
A: You qualify if you’re:
- A rising junior in the ‘25-’26 academic year
- Enrolled in a BSN program at James Madison University, Shenandoah University, or Shepherd University
- Maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Committed to consecutive semesters
- Committed to working for Valley Health after graduation
Only 10 scholarships will be awarded, so apply early!
Q: How much financial support will I receive?
A: You’ll get $25,000 total.
- $5,000 per semester for 4 semesters
- $5,000 upon acceptance of your new role as a Valley Health RN
Use it for rent, commuting, or anything to support your student life.
Q: When and how do I apply?
A: Applications open March 17, 2025, and close April 28, 2025. Submit the online form (5 questions, 2 essays) or download the PDF version [link to PDF]. Easy!
Q: What’s the work commitment after graduation?
A: You’ll work full-time at Valley Health for 2 years, starting your first day on the job as a nurse. We’ll place you in the unit with the greatest need, considering your location preferences.
Q: Can I do clinical rotations or a capstone with Valley Health?
A: Yes! It’s not required, but we’d love for you to choose us for rotations or capstones. It’s a great way to get familiar with our system.
Q: Do I need to be enrolled in a nursing program already to apply?
A: Yes, you must be actively enrolled in a BSN program at JMU, Shenandoah, or Shepherd before applying.
Q: Is this scholarship based on financial need?
A: No, it’s not tied to your financial aid status. It’s about supporting your journey as a future RN, no matter your situation.
Q: What happens if I don’t complete the work commitment?
A: If you do not complete the Nursing Program, if VHS, in its sole determination, deems you ineligible for the Recruitment Compensation because your G.P.A. drops below a 3.0 or because you have exhibited behavior that does not align with VHS’s mission and values and/or if you decline employment with VHS after the Nursing Program for any reason, you will be required to repay all of the Recruitment Payments which were paid to you under this letter Agreement.
Q: Can I apply if I’m in an RN-to-BSN or graduate program?
A: No, this is for pre-licensure BSN students only—rising juniors working toward their initial RN license.
Q: How are scholarship recipients selected?
A: VHS will have the Future Caregiver Scholarship committee review all applications. The full application is taken into account when selecting finalists.
Q: How is the money paid out?
A: You’ll get $5,000 upfront when accepted, then $5,000 each semester for 4 semesters, totaling $25,000, paid directly to the student.
Q: Do I have to pay taxes on the scholarship money?
A: The scholarship is counted as taxable income. You’ll receive a 1099 for non-employees and it will be considered payroll for employees.
Q: Can I choose which Valley Health hospital I work at?
A: We’ll consider your location preferences, but placement depends on the unit with the greatest need at the time.
Q: What if I’m already receiving other scholarships or financial aid?
A: You can still apply! This scholarship isn’t tied to other aid—it’s extra support for your day-to-day needs.