AOF Sterling Welch, DO, Scholars Grant
Offered by American Osteopathic Foundation
About This Scholarship
The American Osteopathic Foundation's Sterling Welch, DO, Scholars Grant awards $2,000 to osteopathic medical students who combine solid academics with real financial need and a visible commitment to the osteopathic profession. One award may be granted annually to a student from each eligible COCA-accredited college of osteopathic medicine or branch campus, which makes the effective competition pool your own school rather than the entire country.
This is a nomination-based award: students must be nominated by their COM/SOM dean or a designee, and the package includes a dean's letter confirming good standing and top-50% academics, a financial aid assessment form signed by the school's financial aid office, a personal statement from the nominee, a CV, and proof of AOA student membership (which is complimentary for students). Nominations are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis, with a final deadline of November 30, 2026.
For DO students in years I through III, the practical move is simple: ask your dean's office early whether your school has submitted its nominee. Because each campus gets its own slot and many schools never put anyone forward, students who initiate the conversation often become the nomination.
Eligibility
- Osteopathic medical student in year I, II, or III in good standing at a COCA-accredited COM/SOM
- Verified, significant financial need
- Good academic standing (top 50th percentile) with strong achievements, volunteer service beyond school requirements, or a clear affinity for osteopathic medicine (must exemplify two of the three)
- Active AOA student membership (complimentary for students)
- Must be nominated by the COM/SOM dean or designee; prior Golden Ticket Scholarship finalists are ineligible
How To Apply
- Ask your COM/SOM dean's office to nominate you through the AOF online nomination portal
- Provide your personal statement explaining how the Welch grant will impact your medical education, plus a current CV and proof of AOA student membership
- Your school completes the dean's letter of recommendation and the Student Financial Aid Assessment Form
- Ensure the full nomination is submitted by the November 30, 2026 deadline (nominations are reviewed on a rolling basis)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply directly for the Sterling Welch Scholars Grant?
No. Students must be nominated by their osteopathic medical school's dean or a designee. In practice, students who approach their dean's office early about the nomination often secure their campus's slot.
How many Sterling Welch grants are awarded?
One $2,000 grant may be awarded annually to a student from each eligible COCA-accredited college of osteopathic medicine or branch campus, so you are competing within your own school, not nationally.
Is AOA membership required?
Yes, active AOA student membership is required to apply - but student membership is complimentary, so this is a paperwork step rather than a cost.