Scholarships & Online Resources for OTA Students
Becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) can be an exciting and fulfilling career choice, but tuition costs can add up fast. With programs ranging from $5,000 to $24,000, finding financial aid can make a huge difference. The good news is that there are grants, funding options, and scholarships for students seeking careers in the healthcare field. Plus, some scholarships are created specifically to help OTA students to lighten the load.
EduMed’s guide provides an overview of several OTA scholarships, gives you expert tips for crafting strong applications, and highlights additional financial resources and insights to help you pay for school and keep your finances on track. Keep reading to find out how to secure the right scholarship and make your OTA education more affordable.
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Scholarships and Grants for Occupational Therapy Assistant Students
Scholarships and grants for occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) are some of the most advantageous forms of financial aid because they don’t require repayment, unlike student loans that accumulate interest. These awards can significantly reduce or eliminate educational debt, allowing OTA graduates to begin their careers without the burden of loan payments.
Many professional organizations, healthcare institutions, and foundations offer OTA-specific scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or dedication to serving underrepresented communities. Additionally, these scholarships often provide networking opportunities and professional connections within the occupational therapy field, creating valuable career advancement possibilities beyond the financial benefits. Ready to unlock your OTA career potential? Dive into EduMed’s exclusive guide featuring 10 scholarships that could transform your educational journey.
Lands Banks Memorial Scholarship
The Lands Banks Memorial Scholarship provides financial assistance to occupational therapy assistant students pursuing an entry-level OTA degree at an AOTA-accredited institution in the United States. This scholarship supports students who have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to community service. Applicants must have completed at least one year of OTA coursework. Preference is given to students from historically underrepresented backgrounds who are working to strengthen diversity in the occupational therapy profession.
Amount: $2,000
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AOTA’s E.K. Wise Scholarship
The AOTA’s E.K. Wise Scholarship awards three $2,500 scholarships annually to OTA and OT students from diverse backgrounds who show leadership and dedication to community service. This scholarship aims to support students committed to building an inclusive and well-prepared occupational therapy workforce. To apply, you must be an AOTA member, submit two references, including one from a faculty member, and provide a personal narrative explaining your contributions to diversity in occupational therapy.
Amount: $2,500
Lila Daut and Allen Jacobson Occupational Therapy Scholarship
This scholarship supports occupational therapy assistant students who demonstrate financial need and a strong passion for occupational therapy. It is open to students enrolled in an accredited OTA, MOT, MSOT, or OTD program in Wisconsin. Applicants must provide evidence of their commitment to the field and explain how they plan to contribute to the profession. This scholarship is designed to assist OTA students who are dedicated to making a difference in patient care and rehabilitation services.
Amount: $500
OTA Guide COTA Scholarship
The OTA Guide COTA Scholarship offers a $500 award annually to occupational therapy assistant students. This scholarship is intended to support OTA students who are passionate about their education and future careers in occupational therapy assisting. Applicants must submit an essay discussing their motivation for becoming a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) and how they plan to impact the profession.
Amount: $500
Willard and Spackman Scholarship
The Willard and Spackman Scholarship provides financial support to occupational therapy assistant students in their final year of study. This scholarship, valued at $2,000, is part of the American Occupational Therapy Foundation’s efforts to support students preparing to enter the field. Applicants must be enrolled in an AOTA-accredited or developing OTA program and must be in their final year of coursework. The application process is part of a broader scholarship program, meaning students who apply will be considered for multiple awards offered by the foundation.
Amount: $2,000
KOTA – Gloria Scammahorn Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Kansas OT and OTA students can apply for the Gloria Scammahorn Memorial Endowed Scholarship, which provides financial support to students who are members of the Kansas Occupational Therapy Association and AOTA. Recipients must be enrolled in an entry-level OT or OTA program and are required to present a brief statement at the Kansas Occupational Therapy Association Annual Conference on how the scholarship has positively impacted their education.
Amount: Varies annually
Rosa Hartsook Memorial Scholarship
The Rosa Hartsook Memorial Scholarship supports occupational therapy assistants pursuing post-professional education. This scholarship is designed to help OTAs advancing their education to improve patient care and professional development. Applicants must be members of the Ohio Occupational Therapy Association and submit three references.
Amount: Varies annually
South Dakota – The Harlan and Rita Temple Endowed Scholarship
The Harlan and Rita Temple Endowed Scholarship provides financial assistance to occupational therapy assistant students enrolled in an AOTA-accredited or developing OTA program in South Dakota. Preference is given to South Dakota residents who are members of the South Dakota Occupational Therapy Association. Applicants must be full-time students working toward an associate degree in occupational therapy assisting. Those in their final year of OTA coursework are encouraged to apply.
Amount: Varies annually
West Virginia – The Charlotte Prudich, Elizabeth B. Devereaux, and Deborah Shamblin Endowed Scholarship
This scholarship provides funding for occupational therapy assistant students who are residents of West Virginia and enrolled in an accredited OTA program in the United States. Applicants must be full-time students pursuing an associate degree in occupational therapy assisting. Membership in the West Virginia Occupational Therapy Association is required. Students must have completed at least one year of OTA-specific coursework and be in their final year of study.
Amount: Varies annually
Washington Occupational Therapy Scholarship
The Washington Occupational Therapy Association Endowed Scholarship is awarded to at least one occupational therapy assistant student each year. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited OTA program in Washington state and be members of the Washington Occupational Therapy Association. A strong academic record and commitment to the profession are essential. The application requires three references, including an academic reference from a faculty member, a character reference from a professional who can speak to the applicant’s integrity, and a reference from the OTA program director.
Amount: Varies annually
The Keys to Succeed on Occupational Therapy Assistant Scholarship Applications
Winning an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) scholarship takes more than just good grades. Scholarship committees want to see your passion for the field, hands-on experience, leadership, and commitment to patient care. A strong application tells your story and proves why you are the right candidate. Use these five strategies to boost your chances of securing financial aid and easing the cost of your OTA education.
Key #1: Demonstrate Practical Healthcare Experience
Scholarship committees look for students with real-world patient care experience. If you have volunteered at a rehabilitation center, hospital, or senior care facility, be sure to highlight those experiences. Working as a healthcare aide, therapy assistant, or caregiver also demonstrates your dedication to the field. Focus on any role where you assisted with therapy exercises, patient mobility, or recovery programs, as these experiences align directly with OTA responsibilities.
Key #2: Submit Early, Complete Applications
OTA scholarships are competitive, and funding is often limited. So submitting your application early can give you an advantage. Make sure you have all required documents, including transcripts, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. Before submitting, carefully review your application for errors or missing information to avoid small mistakes that could cost you funding.
Key #3: Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation
A great letter of recommendation can make your application stand out. Select references who know you well and can speak to your work ethic, passion for occupational therapy, and patient interactions. Ideal recommenders include OTA instructors, fieldwork supervisors, or healthcare professionals you have worked with. Their endorsement of your skills and dedication can add credibility to your application.
Key #4: Focus on State-Specific Opportunities
Many states offer scholarships specifically for OTA students through state occupational therapy associations and local healthcare organizations. These scholarships often have fewer applicants compared to national awards, giving you a better chance of securing funding. If you plan to work in your home state after graduation, emphasize that in your application, as many local scholarships prioritize students committed to serving their communities.
Key #5: Highlight Leadership and Community Service
Occupational therapy is all about helping people live better, more independent lives, so scholarship committees look for students who go beyond the classroom. If you have volunteered at rehabilitation centers, led student organizations, or participated in health fairs, make sure to include these experiences. Leadership and service show that you have the initiative, empathy, and dedication that make a great OTA, strengthening your application.
Essential Funding Resources for Occupational Therapy Assistant Students
Paying for OTA school is about more than just scholarships. Finding the right mix of grants, student loans, tuition payment plans, and financial planning tools can make a huge difference. Whether you need help covering tuition, managing student debt, or figuring out the best way to pay for school without financial stress, these resources can help.
American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF)
AOTF provides scholarships for OTA students, awarding more than 50 scholarships ranging from $150 to $5,000 each year. In addition to financial aid, AOTF offers resources on budgeting, loan repayment, and financial planning to help students manage tuition costs and plan for the future.
Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Checklist
Filling out the FAFSA is the key to unlocking federal grants, student loans, and work-study opportunities. EduMed’s FAFSA Checklist walks you through the application process so you can maximize your financial aid options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
EduMed’s Online Student Loan Handbook
Student loans can feel overwhelming. But EduMed’s student loan handbook covers everything OTA students need to know, from applying for loans and managing debt to refinancing options and loan forgiveness programs available for healthcare professionals.
EduMed’s Tuition Payment Plans Guide
If paying tuition all at once isn’t an option, a tuition payment plan can make school more affordable. This guide explains how to take advantage of payment plans and helps OTA students find schools with flexible payment options that spread tuition costs over time.
EduMed’s Tuition Exchange & Reciprocity Agreements
Thinking about attending an out-of-state OTA program? Some states offer tuition reciprocity agreements that allow students to pay in-state or reduced tuition rates at partner schools. This guide to saving money with exchanges and reciprocal agreements explores how these agreements work and how OTA students can save money on tuition.
Financial Planning Association (FPA)
The FPA offers free financial literacy tools designed for students, including budgeting templates, student loan calculators, and savings strategies. These resources can help OTA students create a long-term financial plan that works for their education and career goals.
National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE)
NEFE provides financial education specifically for students, with guides on budgeting, saving, and managing student debt. OTA students can use interactive tools to make informed decisions about tuition, student loans, and overall financial health.
OT Potential Financial Resources
OT Potential helps OTA students plan their finances by offering insights into debt-to-income ratios, financial aid strategies, and program cost comparisons. This resource encourages students to keep their total student debt below their expected annual salary, ensuring better financial stability after graduation.
