We are thrilled to highlight students from the Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine. In this blog, Bethany Robinson highlights scholarship opportunities at AZCPM.
Bethany Robinson, PMSIII, PSEP Award Recipient
The Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) recognizes
the financial challenges of graduate school training in healthcare. Through the
Professional Student Exchange Program (PSEP), WICHE aims to make professional
health education more affordable by offering reduced tuition for students pursuing
specific healthcare degrees at participating universities. Podiatry is one of ten degree programs supported by the PSEP.
Participating institutions for podiatry include:
- Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine at Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ
- California School of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland,
CA - College of Podiatric Medicine at Western University of Health Sciences in
Pomona, CA
The states and territories that offer podiatry support include Alaska, Arizona, Guam,
Montana, Utah, and Wyoming.
PSEP funding varies by degree program. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the
podiatry funding is $17,750; for the 2025-2026 academic year, it increases to $18,525; and for the 2026-2027 academic year, it will be $19,325. Students may receive PSEP funding for up to four years. The funds are paid directly to the university each academic year.
Many (but not all) participating states and territories have a contractual service-payback requirement. This means students must return to their home state after
graduation and practice in their chosen field for a specified number of years. If they do not, they may need to repay the financial support, plus interest. Be sure to check your state’s PSEP website for the specific requirements in your area.
The PSEP application opens on March 15. To ensure consideration for all four
years of funding, be sure to submit your home state’s PSEP application by October 15 of the year before you expect to enroll. First-year students are given priority, but some states also accept applications from currently enrolled students. Check with your state to see if this applies to you.
Meeting state residency requirements and being accepted into a participating
program does not guarantee a PSEP award. Each state determines how many new
students it can assist each year, prioritizing the most qualified applicants. To increase your chances of receiving funding, be sure to submit your application on time. Late applicants will be considered only if funding is still available.
Applicants will need to provide proof of residency. While some states require one
year of residency, others may have different requirements. Contact your state’s office for specific details.
Once awarded funding, you must maintain full-time student status, stay in good
academic standing, and retain your home state or territory residency. Failure to do so may result in the loss of PSEP support.
For more information, visit WICHE PSEP page.
Interest in becoming a podiatric physician? Apply now!