Apply to the Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship Program

We give scholarships to Native Hawaiians pursuing careers in primary and behavioral health disciplines.

Scholars deliver culturally competent primary health care services to Native Hawaiians and disadvantaged people who live in high-need and rural communities in Hawaii.

Which disciplines are eligible to apply?

• Clinical Psychologist
• Dentist
• Dental Hygienist
• Dietitian/Nutritionist
• Nurse
• Nurse-Midwife
• Nurse Practitioner
• Physician
• Physician Assistant
• Social Worker

What benefits will I get if accepted?

In return for your service, we will:

• Pay your tuition
• Provide you with a monthly stipend
• Cover related school costs

What do we require of you in return?

Read the School Year 2025 – 2026 Application and Program Guidance (PDF - 765 KB)*

You must serve for one year in a medically underserved area within the state of Hawaii immediately after graduation/licensure for every year of funding you receive.

You must serve a minimum of two years and a maximum of four years.

Is your award subject to federal taxes?

All awards are subject to federal taxes.

On January 1, 2018, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) began withholding federal income and FICA taxes on the entire NHHSP award. This follows Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rules.

FAQs: Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship Program

How do I apply?

Our scholarship is a competitive, merit-based award. Application season occurs every winter.

You can submit your application online at the Papa Ola Lōkahi website.

To be eligible to apply, you must:

• Prove Hawaiian ancestry
• Pursue one of the above mentioned eligible health professions
• Be enrolled full-time at an accredited college or university

How does the NHHSP help the community?

We have awarded scholarships to more than 300 Hawaiians in primary and behavioral health care disciplines.

This helps to increase representation of Native Hawaiian health professionals dedicated to serving the needs of Native Hawaiian communities.

Of those who have served, the majority have continued to work in medically high-need areas and populations in Hawaii.

How to contact us

Call: 808-597-6550 

Donna-Marie Palakiko, Ph.D.
Operations Coordinator

Nani Espinda
Program Coordinator 

Trina Jones-Artis
Program Coordinator

Lisa Kaanoi
Engagement Specialist

For questions on the Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship Program, please email.

*Note: Persons using assistive technology may not be able to fully access information in this file. For assistance, please email DHCFS-OD@hrsa.gov or call 301-945-3954.