Educational Scholarships

How to Apply

One Simple, Streamlined Application

Complete one comprehensive online application to be considered for all qualifying scholarships. Our review process will automatically match you with appropriate opportunities.

Eligibility

• Currently enrolled full-time in an ACOTE®-accredited occupational therapy (OT) program or occupational therapy assistant (OTA) program
• Completed at least one year of occupational therapy coursework
• Meet any additional state-specific or scholarship-specific requirements

Scholarships are available to students enrolled in OT and OTA programs from a wide range of backgrounds, interests, specializations, and career and educational goals. Visit the available scholarships page for award-specific eligibility details.

Required Materials

• Three references: Academic advisor, character reference, and program director
• Two Essays (500 words each):
  1. Expressing your commitment to occupational therapy
  2. Demonstrating how your goals and values align with AOTF’s mission
• Professional resume: Highlighting achievements, experiences, and academic performance

Tips for a Strong Application

Your application should convey:

• Academic excellence: Maintain strong grades and demonstrate consistent academic performance throughout your program
• Leadership experience: Highlight leadership roles in student organizations, community service, or healthcare settings
• Professional commitment: Clearly articulate your dedication to occupational therapy and your career goals
• Community engagement: Show how you’ve contributed to your community through volunteer work or service projects

Application Instructions

A complete application will consist of:

1. Applicant contact information, including appropriate membership information
2. Academic background
3. Resume including volunteer service, extracurricular activities, honors and awards received, and work experience
4. Essay questions: The two essays provide an opportunity for the Scholarship Selection Committee to assess an applicant’s personal and professional attributes, an essential part of the application. Please complete it carefully and thoughtfully
5. AOTF application references: You will need three total references to be completed and submitted by the application deadline. You will need an academic reference, a character reference, and a reference from your OT Program Director. Applications MUST contain all three references by the deadline, or your application will be disqualified.
   • Academic reference: Enter the name and email address of your academic reference. This information will be used to send your reference the form to complete. This reference should be from a current faculty member or faculty advisor who can speak about your academic ability.
   • Character reference: Enter the name and email address of your character reference. This information will be used to send your reference the form to complete. This reference should be someone who can speak to your character.
   • Program Director Reference: Enter the name and email address of your Program Director. This information will be used to send the completed form to your program director for your reference.
   Tips for success in contacting and communicating with your references: Email your references and program directors about your application and the deadline, and look for an e-mail from AOTF with information about completing the reference forms. Including your resume or highlights of your accolades in the e-mail may also be helpful. Within the week of the due date, confirm that your recommendations have been submitted by returning them to your AOTF application. Send your references and/or program director a reminder e-mail if they have not been submitted. If references in the online submission process experience exceptional difficulties, please contact David Robertson at scholarships@aotf.org or 240-292-1077.
6. Signature: In lieu of a signature, by agreeing to the terms and conditions before submitting your application, you are certifying that your application information is accurate and correct, and you are permitting AOTF to obtain a Program Director’s Statement and to contact the two (2) individuals named for references. This signature also authorizes AOTF to announce publicly the names and programs of successful applicants and to contact recipients for information that can be used to promote the scholarship program.