The AOF First Generation Student Scholarship Fund was created to support Osteopathic medical students who are the first in their immediate family to graduate from a post-secondary institution. Special thanks to the friends and family of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Humayun “Hank” Chaudhry, DO, MACP, MACOI, FRCP, whose generosity helped launch the first scholarship in Dr. Chaudhry’s name. 

Purpose

The First Generation Student Scholarship is designed to recognize and encourage students who are the first in their immediate family to graduate from a post-secondary institution.

Scholarship

One (1) scholarship in the amount of $5,000 will be awarded to a first-generation DO student who demonstrates a commitment to Osteopathic medicine, displays strong academic achievement, and embodies the holistic spirit of the Osteopathic profession through demonstrated leadership and community service.  

Eligibility

• Students in good standing at a COCA-accredited College/School of Osteopathic Medicine (COM/SOM) who will be an OMS-II, 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).
• Demonstrated commitment to Osteopathic medicine and the profession.
• Demonstrated participation in community service activities outside of any medical school requirements; may include leadership in professionally related organizations or volunteer activities while enrolled in Osteopathic medical school.
• Current AOA membership required to apply. (You may register for complimentary AOA student membership here.)

Application Requirements

• 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 medical 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 pathway to post-secondary education, their reason for choosing Osteopathic medicine and their futures plans as an Osteopathic physician.
• Current curriculum vitae or resume (including all memberships and volunteer positions, Osteopathic or otherwise).
• Proof of AOA student membership.

Review Process

Applications will be accepted beginning Monday, March 9, and will close on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Incomplete applications will NOT be reviewed. Completed applications will be reviewed by an independent panel; the selected students will have the highest aggregate scores. Applicants and their COM/SOM 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 in the Honors Tribute Book. 

The American Osteopathic Foundation (AOF) reserves the right to modify award amounts, eligibility criteria, deadlines, or other programs details at its sole discretion. AOF also reserves the right not to make an award in any given year if, in its judgment, qualified applicants are not identified.  All decisions of the review plan and the AOF are final.

Click here to access the application portal.