FAQs
• Who is eligible to apply for grant funding?
Only accredited schools of nursing (CCNE or NLNAC) offering entry-level accelerated nursing programs at the baccalaureate and/or master's level may apply for funding.
Only accredited schools of nursing (CCNE or NLNAC) offering entry-level accelerated nursing programs at the baccalaureate and/or master's level may apply for funding.
• When can I submit an application on behalf of my school of nursing?
Applications will be accepted from Wednesday, September 23, 2009, through 3 p.m. ET on Tuesday, December 15, 2009.
Applications will be accepted from Wednesday, September 23, 2009, through 3 p.m. ET on Tuesday, December 15, 2009.
• What kind of program guidance is available?
Two Web conferences are scheduled in advance of the application submission deadline. At each conference, grant staff will provide a program overview, discuss eligibility requirements, review goals and expectations, explain the proposal review process and identify key dates. Participants will be able to ask questions, following a brief presentation. The Web conferences are scheduled for October 21, 2009 at 2 p.m. ET and November 6, 2009 at 11 a.m. ET. You must register for the Web conferences. Register for the Web conference held at 2 p.m. ET on Wednesday, October 21, 2009.
Register for the Web conference held at 11 a.m. ET on November 6, 2009.
• How much grant funding can I apply for?
Schools of nursing can apply for between $50,000 and $300,000 in grant funding, which translates into funding for between five and 30 student scholarships ($10,000 each).
• How many grants will be awarded?
This year, up to 75 schools of nursing will receive scholarship funding through the program.
• How long will programs receive funding? What is the duration of this award?
Funding through this Call for Proposals will be available for one year.
• What can grant funding be used for?
Funding can only be used to provide scholarships to recruit new nursing students into accelerated programs. Scholarship funds may be used by students to pay tuition, academic fees and living expenses.
• Can I use scholarship funding to support students already enrolled in classes in my accelerated program(s)?
No, funds may only be used for newly admitted students who are not yet taking classes.
• Can I use funding to support students in other types of accelerated programs (e.g. BSN to doctoral, RN to BSN)?
No, funding may only be used for entry-level students who are not licensed registered nurses.
• If my school is already receiving funding from RWJF for another project, are we eligible to apply for funding through this scholarship program?
Yes, as long as you are able to meet the goals and expectations of both programs.
• Can I apply for scholarship funding for both my accelerated baccalaureate and accelerated master's nursing programs?
Yes, but the total amount of funding requested may not exceed $300,000 (30 scholarships).
• Who from the school of nursing would be the most appropriate Program Liaison?
The Program Liaison may be the director of the accelerated program, the dean/director of the school of nursing, a designated faculty member, or someone from the admissions or financial aid office. Schools must determine who is the most appropriate contact.
• What factors does RWJF consider when evaluating proposals?
Applicant institutions must provide evidence that funds will be used to expand enrollment in entry-level accelerated nursing programs and enhance recruitment of students from groups underrepresented in nursing or disadvantaged backgrounds. Proposal reviewers will look to see how funding will be used to help schools leverage the expansion of faculty resources and what mentorship and leadership development activities will be available for scholarship recipients.
• How are "groups underrepresented in nursing or disadvantaged backgrounds" defined?
Each applicant institution must define these terms with respect to their community and region of the country. For example, individuals from underrepresented racial or ethnic minority groups, or those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds would meet this criteria. RWJF is committed to programs that embrace racial, ethnic and economic diversity.
• Are men considered a group underrepresented in nursing?
Yes.
• Should schools hire new faculty or partner with clinical agencies?
Schools that hire new faculty or partner with clinical agencies to add program faculty to accommodate an increase in student capacity will receive a funding preference.
