The UNC College of Osteopathic Medicine is dedicated to making medical education accessible and affordable. To help reduce the financial burden of medical school, UNC COM offers a variety of merit- and need-based scholarships that recognize academic excellence, leadership, service, and alignment with our mission to prepare compassionate physicians who serve their communities. 

Scholarship Opportunities

Dean’s Award

The Dean’s Award is a merit-based recruitment scholarship granted at the time of admission to up to 30 incoming students who demonstrate the highest academic achievement. Selection is based on a composite evaluation of MCAT score, overall and science GPAs (including graduate science GPA), and GPA trajectory. Each award totals $40,000, distributed as $10,000 per year for up to four years of study. Recipients are notified of their selection at the time of admission. 

UNC Foundation and Alumni-Funded Awards

UNC COM students may also apply for institutional and donor-funded scholarships made possible through the UNC Foundation and generous alumni contributions. 

These scholarships support students who demonstrate: 

  • Academic excellence and leadership 
  • Financial need 
  • Commitment to rural or underserved communities 
  • Dedication to service and the osteopathic profession 

Incoming students are automatically considered for admission-based scholarships at the time of acceptance. Continuing students may apply annually for donor-supported awards through the UNC Scholarship Application—accessible in your MyUNC account under the Financial Aid tab (a valid Bear number is required).

Institutional Scholarships

UNC COM offers several merit- and need-based scholarships to recognize excellence and advance our mission of preparing compassionate, community-focused physicians. Visit (insert Scholarship Link) to learn more about scholarships. 

Note: COM students are assigned a dedicated financial aid counselor specializing in health professions education. 

Students are encouraged to: 

Complete the FAFSA each year 

  • Submit any supplemental scholarship applications by posted deadlines 
  • Review eligibility, selection criteria, and timelines as new awards are established 

 Full List of UNC Scholarships  

Guide to UNC Foundation Scholarships 

Equal Opportunity

UNC is dedicated to providing an equal opportunity climate and environment free from discrimination and harassment. In accordance with established laws, the University prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, gender, age, national origin, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, military service, or political affiliation for all employees in all aspects of employment and for students in academic programs and activities.