Am I Entitled to Disability Scholarships?

- Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2009/11/23 - Updated: 2024/03/19
Publication Type: Informative
Topic: Disability Scholarships - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: Information regarding eligibility for several different types of disability scholarships.

Most scholarships are merit based. This means that they are awarded to students with certain qualities, such as proven academic or athletic ability.

Students with disabilities may be able to also apply for awards intended for people with disabilities. Those scholarships may be intended for disabled students in general, or in relation to a specific disability.

Introduction

A scholarship is defined as an award of financial aid for a person to further their education. The terms "scholarship" and "grant" are often used interchangeably, but there are usually differences between these two forms of aid. Most scholarships are merit based. This means that they are awarded to students with certain qualities, such as proven academic or athletic ability. Many scholarships have rules, maintaining a certain GPA, for example, that you have to follow to continue receiving aid. Students with disabilities may be able to apply for awards intended for people with disabilities. Those scholarships may be intended for disabled students in general, or in relation to a specific disability. Most grants are need based. This means that they are usually awarded based on your or your family's financial situation.

Main Item

No two disability scholarships are ever quite the same and not every scholarship may apply to you or your current situation. If, for example, you have a hearing impairment and the scholarship is for blind students, you obviously would not qualify. Therefore be sure you read the scholarship application details and requirements thoroughly before filling out the form(s).

The Learning Disabilities Association is a U.S. national organization committed to providing services, education, and resources for individuals with learning disabilities such as dyslexia and ADHD, among others. Students facing such challenges might benefit from contacting their state's chapter of the LDA.

Students with disabilities can qualify for a large number of unique scholarship types and Disabled World has assembled a few of the well respected organizations that provide disability scholarships. Funding can assist with approved education-related items and services such as tutors, note-takers, assistive computer software, and other equipment to accommodate your individual disability-related needs.

The financial aid office at the school you plan to attend is a good place to begin your search for financial aid information. An administrator there can tell you about student aid available from your state, the school itself, and other sources.

Scholarships are Usually Awarded on Academic Merit

They may be a few hundred dollars or a significant sum of money, and unlike student loans, they do not have to be repaid. Colleges and universities award a wide variety of scholarships so you will want to talk to the Student Financial Aid Office about what is available. There are also other scholarships available specifically for students with disabilities, including psychiatric disabilities.

The best source of information on student funding is always the Student Financial Aid Office at your college or university. Information and regulations change fairly frequently, but they will have the latest information. They can:

General Scholarships and Awards

Note: Financial assistance for students with a physical disability is generally separate from, for example, hearing and learning disability scholarships.

Explore Similar Topics

- The Keith C. Brown Endowed Scholarship at UT Austin's McCombs School supports low and middle-income Texas students, enhancing educational access and opportunity.

- This scholarship is available to Deaf and hard-of-hearing Canadian residents 17 years of age or older attending an accredited post-secondary educational institution.

Citing Information and Page References

Disabled World (DW) is a comprehensive online resource providing information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.

Cite This Page (APA): Langtree, I. C. (2009, November 23 - Last revised: 2024, March 19). Am I Entitled to Disability Scholarships?. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved February 15, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/disability/education/scholarships/qualify-scholarship.php

Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/education/scholarships/qualify-scholarship.php">Am I Entitled to Disability Scholarships?</a>: Information regarding eligibility for several different types of disability scholarships.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it's important to note that our content is for general informational purposes only. We always recommend consulting qualified healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.