Who should apply?

Midwifery students, recently graduated midwives, and newly licensed midwives living in and planning to serve California families. Qualified applicants include:

• Residents of California who are enrolled in a Medical Board of California approved midwifery program, or
• Nationally credentialed certified professional midwives (CPMs) who have graduated from a Medical Board of California approved program and have applied or are soon to apply to the Board as a California licensed midwife (within last 6 months), and
• Newly licensed midwives (within last year), and
• Candidates who are Black identified,
• Candidates who can demonstrate a commitment to honor and nurture Black Midwifery traditions as embodied in the legacy of Bridget "Biddy" Mason's service to her community,
• Candidates who agree to a follow-up interview with CAM about their experience as a scholarship recipient.

Check here for the list of Medical Board of California approved schools and Challenge Programs.
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What documents will I need to have ready to upload when filling out an application?

Applicants should be prepared to upload the following information and/or documents:

1. Proof of California residence
2. Two letters of recommendation
3. New students must provide proof of enrollment in a Medical Board of California approved midwifery program. Current students must provide proof of enrollment in a Medical Board of California approved midwifery program and a complete transcript of grades. Grade reports are not accepted. Transcripts must display:

• Student name
• School name
• Grades
• Credit hours and term for each course completed

4. A headshot

Optional submissions:

1. Video (maximum 3 minutes) introducing yourself and speaking about how you intend to serve California birthing communities with your midwifery education and training.
2. A resume
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If I submit a Video Statement of Intent, what should I include?

Your video should include your name, your reasons for applying, and how you intend to serve the California birthing community with your midwifery training and education. Please limit your video to three minutes.
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How long does it take to complete the application(s)?

We recommend you set aside at least two hours to answer the questions on the application; submitting a video should require no more than an additional hour of time.
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Can I save and continue later or should I be prepared to complete in one sitting?

We recommend you be prepared to complete the application all at once. See above for all the documents you’ll want to assemble beforehand.
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Where can I send folks who want to donate to the fund?

Please send them to the Californians for the Advancement of Midwifery website.
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Can I complete the application with a cell phone or iPad/tablet or will I need a computer?

We recommend you complete the application from a laptop or desktop computer.
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What are the application deadlines and dates?

• Deadline for applications is October 12 
• Applications reviewed and selections made by end of November
• December: winners announced
• Awards will be distributed before the end of the year...

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Category & Verification

How many scholarships are planned for 2026?

1 each - $10,000 Student Midwife Scholarship
1 each - $1,000 License Fee Grants; and
1 each - $2,000 Practice Startup Capital

 

Are there any benefits given to applicants who do not get chosen for the scholarships?

Yes, all Black and Indigenous midwifery students and midwifery students of Color are eligible for free CALM membership, which is funded by CAM, and may attend CALM education webinars as a free benefit of CALM membership.