NBME/NMF Student Support Programs
Support today strengthens tomorrow’s physician workforce
Financial barriers shouldn’t stand in the way of a medical learner’s success, and supporting medical students today strengthens tomorrow’s physician workforce. That’s why NBME, in partnership with National Medical Fellowships, is opening 2026 funding cycles that provide more than $1 million in annual support to medical students with demonstrated need.
NBME — a not-for-profit organization that develops and manages the United States Medical Licensing Examination® — brings deep expertise in supporting medical learners at every stage of their training. NMF brings nearly 80 years of experience broadening pathways to medical education and investing in the next generation of physicians. Through two programs, medical students will have access to critical funding that will enable them to focus on medical education and physician training with fewer financial obstacles.
Two Programs. One Shared Mission.
Program 1:
NBME Fee Assistance Program for the USMLE
In its third year, the NBME Fee Assistance Program, administered in partnership with National Medical Fellowships, provides financial awards that offset registration fees for the USMLE, a critical step toward medical licensure.
- Award: $695 toward the registration cost of USMLE Step 1 or Step 2 CK
- Recipients: More than 1,400 students annually
- Eligibility: Medical students with demonstrated financial need enrolled in U.S.-accredited schools
- 2026 Application Windows
- Cycle 1: March 31 – May 10, 2026
- Cycle 2: July 13 – August 23, 2026
- Cycle 3: November 23, 2026 – January 10, 2027
Program 2:
NBME/NMF Scholarship Program
The annual NBME/NMF Scholarship program provides $10,000 scholarships per year – renewable for up to three years – to 20 second-year medical students enrolled in U.S. accredited schools. Established in 2023, the program aims to support aspiring physicians who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to serving their communities.
- Award: $10,000 per year, renewable for up to three years
- Recipients: 20 students annually
- Eligibility: Second-year medical students with demonstrated financial need enrolled in U.S.-accredited schools with a commitment to community-focused practice
- 2026 Application Window: April 6 – May 17, 2026
