Financial Aid

The scholarships listed below are available only to UNC MDS Students.  Students may apply by completing the Department of Allied Health Sciences Departmental Scholarship Application, and giving permission on that form for the selection committee to review your student file.  We strongly encourage all students to complete this application and file the FAFSA by March 1 each year so that you can be considered for every scholarship available to you through the department, however, applications for Division of CLS scholarships may be submitted after that date, up to June 1.  Recipients will be chosen and notified by August 1 each year.

Corporate Sponsors Scholarships

The UNC MDS program is supported in part by sponsorships from various corporations in the molecular diagnostics industry.  Part of the money given by Corporate Sponsors is used to provide scholarships each year.  Each scholar will be awarded $3000.

The primary criteria considered are:

• professional competence and potential
• academic excellence
• personal characteristics
• Second-year MDS Corporate Sponsor Scholars will also be selected based on their teaching ability, and will assist faculty members in some MDS courses.

School-Based Tuition Scholarships

MDS students' tuition includes a "school-based tuition" component, which helps to provide adequate resources for a quality program.  Part of the money received from school-based tuition is used to provide need-based financial assistance to students.  The number and amount of awards varies based on enrollment, number of applicants, and need of applicants.

Other Aid Sources

• MDS students are also eligible for scholarships awarded by the Department of Allied Health Sciences, as well as emergency assistance funds.
• All UNC students are eligible for assistance through the UNC Office of Scholarships and Student Aid. When applying for aid, be sure to tell the financial counselor that you are in the Molecular Diagnostic Science program.  Some scholarships may require a statement of enrollment; if you need this please contact the CLS office.
• College Foundation of North Carolina has links to many sources of aid and tools to help you find those for which you are eligible.
• Professional Associations such as ASCLS, ASCP and NCSCLS provide some scholarships for students enrolled in clinical laboratory education programs. The Program Director will provide information and applications to students whenever we are made aware of opportunities.

The Health Sciences Library has prepared a useful guide for Allied Health Sciences students seeking financial aid.