This program provides service-conditioned scholarships to individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who agree to pursue undergraduate education at accredited institutions. Individuals must pursue a course of study which prepares them for professions needed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The maximum scholarship per academic year is $20,000. Scholarship funds may only be used for tuition/educational and living expenses incurred while attending school.

Each recipient must agree by written contract to serve as an NIH employee full-time for not less than 10 consecutive weeks of each year during which the individual is receiving a scholarship. In addition, no later than 60 days after obtaining the educational degree, each recipient must begin serving as a full-time NIH employee for one year for each year of NIH scholarship support (a deferment of the service obligation may be obtained if appropriate).