FOUNDATION FOR FIRST
ASSISTANTS SCHOLARSHIP

Purpose

The purpose of this scholarship is to encourage and reward AST members who are credentialed surgical technologists seeking to advance their careers through formal education as credentialed Surgical First Assistants (SFA). This scholarship recognizes professional commitment, academic achievement, and financial need while supporting the development of highly skilled surgical team members dedicated to patient safety and excellence.

Selection Process

Selection is based on a combination of:

Academic performance in a credentialed SFA program
Professional experience as a credentialed surgical technologist
Financial need
Commitment to the advancement of the credentialed surgical assisting profession

Scholarships will be awarded based on the information provided on this application.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

Hold a current surgical technology credential earned through an NCCA-accredited certifying body.
Be enrolled in or accepted into an accredited Surgical First Assistant educational program (ARC/STSA or ABHES).
Demonstrate strong academic ability and professional commitment.
Demonstrate a need for financial assistance.
Be an active member of AST for a minimum of one year prior to award disbursement.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: MARCH 1, 2027

Application Checkoff List

✓ Complete and Proofread Application

✓ Two Letters of Recommendation (see requirements below)

✓ Copy of Current Surgical Technology Credential

✓ Proof of Enrollment in an Accredited Surgical First Assistant program

✓ Official Transcript or Enrollment Verification

Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Amount Awarded

Scholarships will be awarded based on merit and demonstrated financial need, with award amounts determined by the Foundation for Surgical Technology Committee using a standardized 100-point evaluation rubric. Scholarship recipients will be notified by the end of May. Recipient names will be announced at the AST Conference and published in the AST Journal and on the Foundation website.

Scholarship funds are provided through contributions to the Foundation for Surgical Technology by AST, individuals, AST state assemblies, corporations, and others who support the surgical technology scholarship program.

As a demonstration of investment in the profession and professional organization, recipients will be required to be AST members prior to receipt of the award.

Questions may be directed to ashley.wahl@ast.org.