William G. Anderson Osteopathic Medical Student Scholarships

William G. Anderson Osteopathic Medical Student Scholarships is sponsored by See official notice. A limited number of $10,000 scholarships are awarded to minority osteopathic medical students in good standing at a College/School of Osteopathic Medicine (COM/SOM) who will be an OMS-III or OMS-IV during the 2026-2027 academic year.

American Osteopathic Foundation | William G. Anderson, DO Scholarship William G. Anderson, DO Scholarship The William G.

Anderson, DO, Scholarship Fund was established in 1998 in recognition of the distinguished career of William G. Anderson, DO, and his life-long commitment to civil rights, his dogged pursuit of diversity, equity, and inclusion, decades-long dedication to the Osteopathic profession, and his generous philanthropic spirit.

This scholarship annually recognizes Osteopathic medical students who are committed to Osteopathic principles and practices, excel academically, have proven to be leaders in addressing educational and societal barriers, and are uniquely positioned to understand and address the health care needs of minority populations.

In 2026, to celebration the 25th anniversary of scholarships through this Fund, the AOF will award up to 25 scholarships in the amount of $10,000 each to Osteopathic medical students who exemplify the scholarship’s purpose. Minority* students in good standing at a COCA-accredited College/School of Osteopathic Medicine (COM/SOM) who will be an OMS-III or OMS-IV during the 2026-2027 academic year.

If the COM/SOM ranks students, applicants must be in the top 50% of their class (displaying strong academic achievement while in medical school). Plays a leadership role in addressing the educational, societal, or health needs of minorities. Multiple examples of their work to address inequities in medical education or health care.

Participates in volunteer activities outside of college requirements that demonstrate their commitment to equity and inclusion. Can include service projects, philanthropic activities, health policy initiatives, etc. Current AOA membership required to apply. (You may register for complimentary AOA student membership here .)

*Defined by the US Census Bureau as those individuals identifying as African American; Asian American, Arab and other Middle Eastern American, Native American (including American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian); and Latinx or Hispanic students. International students are also welcome to apply. Completed online application – students may apply directly.

One (1) letter of recommendation from the Dean, Dean of Osteopathic Education, or similar administrator verifying the student is in good standing, confirming strong academic standing (top 50% if ranked), and verifying that receipt of this scholarship will not render the student ineligible for other financial aid or reduce total aid received.

Two (2) additional letters of recommendation from the following: an academic medical instructor, Osteopathic physician, professional mentor, or similar professional within the Osteopathic profession describing how the applicant exemplifies the purpose of the scholarship. Note: one letter must be from an Osteopathic physician.

A personal statement outlining the applicant’s academic and leadership aptitude, and citing multiple, specific examples of their commitment to addressing health equity. Current curriculum vitae or resume (including all memberships and volunteer positions, Osteopathic or otherwise). Proof of AOA student membership.

Applications will be accepted beginning Monday, February 23, 2026, and will close on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Incomplete applications will NOT be reviewed. Applications are reviewed by an independent panel; the selected students will have the highest aggregate scores.

Applicants and their SOM/COM will be notified of funding decisions by July 31, 2026. The selected recipients will receive one (1) complimentary ticket to attend AOF’s Honors Gala, on Friday, October 23, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, where they will have the opportunity to meet leaders in the Osteopathic profession and will be recognized as an AOF 2026 William G. Anderson, DO, Minority Scholarship recipient in the Honors Tribute Book.

Click here to access the application portal. Proceeds from the sale of "Autobiographies of a Black Couple of the Greatest Generation" by William G. and Norma L.

Anderson benefit this scholarship program.