The Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarship Program is one of the largest private scholarship initiatives in the United States, supporting over 10,000 women annually. Designed specifically for Christian women with financial need, this program primarily assists those pursuing undergraduate degrees in health-related fields across nine southeastern states.

This guide provides a complete overview, including eligibility, benefits, application procedures, and FAQs.

Overview

The Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation partners with more than 200 accredited colleges and universities in the southeastern United States. Participating institutions award need-based financial aid to eligible students. While the program emphasizes medicine, nursing, and allied health fields, other undergraduate programs may also be supported depending on institutional policies.

• Scholarship Amount: Starting at $1,000 (varies by institution)

• Deadline: April 1, 2026

• Awards Available: 10,000+ annually

Degree Level

The scholarship supports undergraduate programs only, including associate and bachelor’s degrees at participating institutions. Graduate studies are not eligible.

Eligible Subjects

While students in various programs may apply, priority is given to health-related fields, including:

• Nursing

• Pre-Medicine/Medicine

• Allied Health Fields:

  • Public Health

  • Pharmacy

  • Physical Therapy

  • Physician Assistant Studies

  • Occupational Therapy

  • Medical Technology

  • Dental Hygiene

  • Radiologic Technology

Some colleges may extend eligibility to other majors based on institutional guidelines.

Benefits

• Need-based financial support to reduce tuition and educational costs

• Over 10,000 scholarships awarded annually, increasing chances of selection

• Supports women pursuing careers in high-demand healthcare fields

• Institutional determination of awards ensures flexibility based on student need

• Available at 200+ colleges, increasing accessibility and reach

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Female

• Demonstrate financial need

• Christian faith (as required by the Foundation)

• Residency in one of the nine southeastern states:

  • Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia

• Enrollment at a participating accredited institution

• Pursuing undergraduate studies, preferably in a health-related field

Application Procedure

Applications are submitted through participating institutions, not directly to the Foundation. Follow these steps:

1. Verify Participation
   Contact your institution’s financial aid office to confirm scholarship availability.

2. Complete Institutional Application
   Follow internal procedures, which may include:

   • Financial aid application

   • FAFSA (if required)

   • Verification of Christian faith (varies by school)

   • Residency documentation

3. Submit Required Documents
   Typically includes:

   • Proof of financial need

   • Enrollment verification

   • Academic transcripts

   • State residency proof

4. Await Decision
   Award decisions are made by the institution; timelines vary by college.

For more information visit Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarship 2026 webpage.

FAQs

1. Who is eligible for the Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarship?
US female Christian students residing in one of the nine southeastern states pursuing undergraduate health programs.

2. How much is the scholarship worth?
Amounts start at $1,000, depending on the institution.

3. Can graduate students apply?
No, this scholarship is only for undergraduate studies.

4. How do I apply?
Through your college or university’s financial aid office.

5. Which states are eligible?
Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia.