Scholarships
If you are interested in pursuing a career in EMS and are looking to further your education, scholarships can open up that possibility! There are a variety of scholarships available specifically for EMS students in the state of Wisconsin and nationally. Some are provided through associations and grants, and others can be found through specific EMS departments. When applying for scholarships, be sure to read the eligibility requirements carefully and submit your application on time. Below is a compiled list of some of the scholarships that are available to you.
WEMSA Foundation Scholarship

Every year, the Wisconsin EMS Association (WEMSA) Foundation provides $1,000 scholarships to eligible students pursuing licensure in EMS through an approved Wisconsin training center. Applications currently closed for this scholarship.
For Active & Prospective
First Responders
Fitch EMS Foundation - EMS Specific Leadership Training
Deadline: Mar 15, 2026
Apply
Fitch & Associates will provide scholarships for the following programs: Ambulance Service Manager (ASM) and Communications Center Manager (CCM) certificate programs and the Pinnacle EMS Leadership Forum.
Fitch EMS Foundation - American College of Paramedic Executives
Deadline: Mar 15, 2026
$1,000 Apply
The American College of Paramedic Executives (ACPE), is the credentialing body that offers voluntary professional certifications to qualified EMS leaders.The ACPE will provide a waiver of certification fees for the Foundation’s award winner for an applicant that meets the certification criteria in each of the following categories:
- Supervising Paramedic Officer (SPO)
- Managing Paramedic Officer (MPO)
- Executive Paramedic Officer (FACPE – Fellow of the College of Paramedic Executives)
Firehouse Subs Public Safety Scholarship
Deadline: April 15, 2025
$5,000 Apply
Community applicants to the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Scholarship Program must:
- Be high school seniors or graduates, or current college undergraduates, and
- Plan to enroll in a part-time or full-time firefighter, law enforcement, or an emergency medical (paramedic or EMT) program at an accredited two-year or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school for the entire upcoming academic year and
- Plan to pursue a career as a first responder; firefighter, police officer, paramedic or EMT.
NAEMT Foundation Scholarships
for EMR & EMT Schooling
Deadline: April 30, 2026
$1,000 Apply
Applicant must submit a letter of request, in 1,000 words or less, that describes why he or she is pursuing educational scholarship, his or her educational and employment goals, and how the scholarship would be of benefit.
The following criteria will be used in the scholarship selection process:
- Commitment to entering the EMS profession
- Financial need
- Dedication to the community
- Ability to serve as a positive ambassador to the EMS profession
NAEMT Columbia Southern University Scholarships
Deadline: May 31st & October 31, 2026
Apply
Exclusive NAEMT scholarship at Columbia Southern University will cover up to 60 credit hours toward one online degree program. The scholarship will be applied directly to the recipient’s tuition for up to three years or until the completion of the selected online degree program, whichever comes first. Plus, full members receive a 15% tuition discount on online courses. Proof of full NAEMT membership is required.
NAEMT EMS Scholarships
Deadline: June 15 & September 15, 2026
Apply
The following scholarship opportunities are offered twice yearly to coincide with the fall-winter and spring-summer school semesters. View Details and Guidelines
- First Responders (to become EMT-Basic) – up to $500 each
- EMT-Basic (to become EMT-Paramedic) – up to $5,000 each
- Paramedics (to advance education in the realm of EMS) – up to $2,000 each
Bound Tree Scholarship Program
Deadline: April 24, 2026
$2,000 Apply
Applicants must submit a single page typewritten essay explaining why they wish to pursue an EMT career or to further their training. Applicants must be the son or daughter of a career or volunteer Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Paramedic, or Firefighter (active, formerly active, retired or deceased) who is interested in a career in Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
Bryant Gladney Paramedic Education Scholarship
Deadline: July 1, 2026
$1,500 Apply
The Bryant Gladney Paramedic Education Scholarship is for students who are attending a program to become a Paramedic. They are looking for students who display a strong passion for serving their community and who plan to pursue a life-long career in emergency medicine. They award four $1,500 scholarships per semester. Applications for fall programs (Aug.-Dec.) are due July 1. Applications for spring programs (Jan.-May) are due December 1. Applications for the fall open in May, and applications for spring open in October.
Applicants must be 18 years or older and live in the United States. Applicants must have completed high school or received a GED and must be accepted into a Paramedic program at a college or university, or a program as part of a non-profit organization, which must be in the United States. Scholarship recipients will receive $1,500. Scholarships are for tuition only, and will be paid directly to the Bursar at the program. Approved scholarships cannot be used for fees outside of tuition, including but not limited to books, supplies, lab fees or registration fees.
Annuvia’s Public Safety Scholarship
Deadline: July 31, 2026
$500 Apply
The scholarship is open to legal residents of the United States of America, who are 18 years of age or older as of the date of enrollment at his or her educational institution, who are not employees or direct relatives of employees of Annuvia and who are attending a college or other post-secondary educational institution on a full-time basis. Essay: You must submit an original 500+ word essay. Write an essay about how you propose the emergency medical services industry improve public safety, emergency response, or general public safety. Your essay should incorporate facts and details and, where possible, accurate industry research and information.
Gold Cross Ambulance Scholarship
Deadline: December 1, 2026
$1,000 Apply
Scholarship applicants must be enrolled in a paramedic training program at Fox Valley Technical College, Lakeshore Technical College, Moraine Park Technical College or Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. Preference may be given to students enrolled in an associate degree paramedic program.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate:
- A minimum 2.5 GPA
- Volunteer or other experience in health-related fields
- Community service
- Financial need
The $1,000 scholarship is awarded annually to two students. It must be used for tuition and is non-renewable. The award is payable after successful completion of the first semester.
Kelmann Cares Foundation Grants & Scholarship Program
Deadline: December 1, 2026
$1,000 Apply
Grants are considered on a bi-annual basis by the Foundation’s board of directors. Please note that the maximum amount to be awarded per winning applicant is $1,000. All applicants will be notified of the board’s final decision two weeks after the close of the grant deadline.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2026
Applicants will be notified of the board’s decision by December 15, 2026.
Foster Love American Industries Scholarship
Deadline: May 8, 2026
$10,000 Apply
Foster Love and the Milligan Family Foundation offer this incredible scholarship program tailored to elevating the experiences of current and former foster youth across America. The American Industries Trade Scholarship offers a powerful opportunity, granting up to $10,000 in academic funding over two years to help foster youth overcome financial hurdles in earning a trade certification or vocational degree. Beyond financial aid, this scholarship stands as a pillar of support for young individuals, fostering their personal, emotional, and social growth. Must be pursuing a trade (including EMT).
Detox.com College Scholarship
Deadline: July 31st, 2026
$250 - $1,500 Apply
The Detox.com Scholarship Contest provides an opportunity for students to earn financial support while engaging in meaningful discussion around addiction, recovery, and stigma. This scholarship awards funding to students who submit an original essay exploring how individuals and society can help reduce stigma and encourage those struggling with substance use to seek treatment. Open to eligible college students, this program supports both academic advancement and awareness in an important area of public health.
Addictions.com College Scholarship
Deadline: July 31st, 2026
$250 - $1,500 Apply
The Addictions.com Scholarship Program offers financial support to students committed to addressing substance use and mental health challenges. Through an essay-based application, students are encouraged to explore important topics surrounding addiction, recovery, and societal impact. This scholarship aims to empower students to contribute to meaningful change while supporting their educational goals.
Rehabs.com College Scholarship
Deadline: July 31st, 2026
$250 - $1,500 Apply
The Rehabs.org Scholarship provides students with the opportunity to earn funding while raising awareness about addiction treatment and recovery. Applicants are asked to submit an original essay focused on reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help. This program supports students who are passionate about making a difference in public health and their communities.
Parker Foundation Scholarship
No deadline; applications reviewed and scholarships awarded year-round
$2,000 Apply
Certifications and education programs provide opportunities and credibility for rural government employees, underprivileged citizens, and veterans seeking to start a career in the information technology (IT), medical, first responder, and emergency management fields. Being certified and educated by a reputable institution allows anyone to stand out from the crowd and be more likely to succeed in their positions and obtain a better quality of life.
Kristin Ciganek-Schroeder Memorial Scholarship
Deadline: July 1st, 2026
$2,000 Apply
The Kristin Ciganek-Schroeder Memorial Scholarship was established in 2021 to honor the memory of Lieutenant Kristin Ciganek-Schroeder and support women training for a career in the fire service. Lieutenant Ciganek was a proud member of the Milwaukee Fire Department for 15 years. She served her community for 13 years as a firefighter and for 2 years as a fire lieutenant. Lieutenant Ciganek was diagnosed with duty-related cancer in August 2012 at the age of 43, and she was forced to retire from the job she loved. She passed away in December 2017 at the age of 47.
Chief Alan Brunacini Special Projects Program
Deadline: October 30, 2026
Up to $10,000 Apply
This prestigious program awards funding to individuals and organizations within the fire and emergency services community to support innovative projects that advance leadership development and training. Inspired by Chief Alan Brunacini’s legacy of progressive leadership and customer service–focused fire service, this opportunity encourages forward-thinking initiatives that strengthen professional growth and organizational culture. Projects that promote education, collaboration, and long-term impact across departments and communities are strongly encouraged.
Donald E. Sellers Award for Emergency Medical Responders
Deadline: October 30, 2026
Up to $10,000 Apply
Designed specifically for EMS professionals, this award supports individuals seeking to further their education and training in emergency medical services. Honoring Donald E. Sellers’ commitment to advancing EMS education and excellence, this scholarship recognizes those who are dedicated to improving patient care and strengthening their communities. Applicants should demonstrate leadership potential and a clear vision for how continued training will enhance their impact in the field.
Donald E. Sellers Award for Emergency Medical Responders
Deadline: October 30, 2026
Varies Apply
Designed specifically for EMS professionals, this award supports individuals seeking to further their education and training in emergency medical services. Honoring Donald E. Sellers’ commitment to advancing EMS education and excellence, this scholarship recognizes those who are dedicated to improving patient care and strengthening their communities. Applicants should demonstrate leadership potential and a clear vision for how continued training will enhance their impact in the field.
Chief John M. Eversole Award for Hazardous Materials Emergency Responders
Deadline: October 30, 2026
Varies Apply
This award provides funding to individuals or organizations pursuing training or education in hazardous materials or WMD response. Named for Chief John M. Eversole, a leader in hazardous materials response and safety, this opportunity supports those working to enhance preparedness and response capabilities in high-risk environments. Priority is given to training or projects that can be applied department-wide or regionally to improve overall response effectiveness.
Chief G. Crawford Wiestling Scholarship Award
Deadline: October 30, 2026
Varies Apply
This scholarship recognizes individuals who have made meaningful contributions to firefighter safety and health. Honoring Chief G. Crawford Wiestling’s decades of service and dedication to the fire service community, this award highlights those who demonstrate leadership, commitment, and measurable impact in improving safety practices. Recipients are recognized for advancing the well-being of firefighters and setting a standard for excellence in the field.
For Children of First Responders
March 15, 20269/11 Promise Run$5,000 ApplyThe 9/11 Promise Run provides scholarships to qualified children of first responders and military service members who have been killed or injured and are unable to hold employment. Starting in 2019, participants of the 9/11 Promise events fundraise for scholarships that positively impact the lives of children and families impacted by the loss of their loved one. Scholarship amounts range from a minimum award of $5,000 to a max award of $15,000. |
April 15, 2026First Responders Children's Foundation ScholarshipApplyFor the past 25 years, First Responders Children’s Foundation has awarded college scholarships to children of first responders. Applicant must be the biological, adopted or step-child of a police officer, firefighter, EMT, paramedic or 911 dispatcher. Applicants who are the child of a deceased first responder must have been conceived prior to the death or total and permanent disability of the eligible first responder. |
NOTE: This is not a comprehensive list, but if you are aware of any scholarships related to first responders and people interested in EMS that are not currently listed, contact us to have it added.
Last Updated: April 29th, 2026
