RNs Beyond the Beltway Scholars Program
The RNs Beyond the Beltway Scholars Program is a federally funded workforce initiative designed to prepare and support the next generation of nurses who will live and work in rural and non-metro communities. Scholars receive targeted financial support, specialized advising, and priority placement in rural clinical sites to help them launch sustainable careers beyond the Beltway.
We anticipate up to 15 awards in 2025-2026.
How to Apply:
We take a holistic approach to reviewing applications, evaluating your Statement of Purpose, your supplemental scholarship essay, letters of recommendation, and GPA. Students who apply by and have their FAFSA completed by the final application deadline will be considered. To be considered, applicants must:
- Complete the General Application for the Accelerated Bachelors of Nursing program
- Complete the Supplemental RNs Beyond the Beltway Scholarship Application (Application will be available January 2026)
- Discuss their commitment to rural health and rural/non-metro communities in their supplemental scholarship essay
- Complete the FAFSA and demonstrate financial need
- Plan to live and work in a rural or non-metro setting after graduation
- Apply to and be admitted into an eligible GW Nursing pre-licensure track (e.g., ABSN, VBSN)
- Applicants who apply to their program by the final deadline will be considered
Rubric:
The committee evaluates each application across the following domains:
1. Commitment to Rural/Non-Metro Practice (Required)
Evidence of past experience, lived experience, service, or clear career intent to practice in a rural or non-metro area after graduation.
2. Financial Need
Determined through FAFSA data and any supplemental documentation.
3. Academic Preparation
Overall cumulative GPA
Prerequisite and science coursework
Readiness for accelerated or rigorous nursing study
4. Leadership, Perseverance & Character
Experiences that demonstrate alignment with the mission of expanding the rural nursing workforce.
5. Letters of Recommendation
Strength and specificity of recommendations regarding nursing potential, maturity, and alignment with rural workforce needs.
Applicants with the highest rubric scores will be recommended for selection.
Final award determinations will be communicated by the Senior Financial Aid Officer.
Timeline:
The RNs Beyond the Beltway timeline is aligned with GW Nursing admissions cycles, so students understand their financial landscape early.
Admission Considerations:
Strong candidates typically:
- Have completed all prerequisite courses before the program start date
- Hold a minimum competitive GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Articulate a clear, authentic interest in serving rural or underserved communities
Preference will be given to students who:
- Come from rural or non-metro communities in partner states (e.g., WV, VA, MD), and/or
- Have prior experience or personal connection to rural community life, health systems, or workforce needs
Selected scholars receive:
- Tuition support (Up to $30,000)
- Tailored academic and career advising
- Networking with rural health system partners
Specialized Training: Provide students with opportunities to gain specialized acute and long-term care training within rural and non-metro areas of VA, MD, and/or W.Va
More Information for Students & Applicants:
Students interested in learning more about the program, including eligibility, funding, rural placements, and career pathways, are encouraged to connect with Faculty Lead, Ashley Darcy Mahoney, PhD, NNP adarcymahoney
gwu [dot] edu (adarcymahoney[at]gwu[dot]edu).