Scholarships students with disabilities can apply for have grown significantly over the past decade. Colleges and nonprofits now recognize the extra financial burdens disabled students face. Assistive technology, medical expenses, and specialized housing all add up quickly. As a result, hundreds of dedicated scholarship programs exist today. These awards range from $500 to $30,000 or more.
They cover physical disabilities, learning disabilities, hearing loss, vision impairment, and mental health conditions. Federal programs also provide tuition assistance through state vocational rehabilitation agencies. However, many students never apply because they do not know these opportunities exist. This guide lists the top programs and explains how to win them. Students renting near campus should also compare renters insurance at Home Insure Guide to protect expensive assistive devices and equipment.
Top Scholarships Students With Disabilities Awards
| Scholarship Name | Award Amount | Deadline | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Lime Scholarship | $10,000 | April | CS/engineering students with any disability |
| Microsoft Disability Scholarship | $20,000 ($5,000/yr) | March | High school seniors with disabilities pursuing STEM, law, or business |
| Anne Ford Scholarship (NCLD) | $10,000 ($2,500/yr) | April | Graduating seniors with documented learning disabilities |
| ChairScholars Foundation | Up to $30,000 | February | Students with major physical disabilities and financial need |
| NFB Scholarship Program | $8,000 each (30+ awards) | March 31 | Legally blind students in any field |
| NBCUniversal Tony Coelho Media Scholarship | $5,625 | May | Students with disabilities pursuing media careers |
| Allegra Ford Thomas Scholarship | $5,000 ($2,500/yr) | April | Seniors with learning disabilities entering 2-year programs |
| AG Bell College Scholarship | $2,500–$10,000 | January–March | Students with bilateral hearing loss (60dB+, diagnosed before age 4) |
| Wells Fargo Stacey Milbern Scholarship | Up to $2,500/yr | March | Students with any identified disability |
| Baer Reintegration Scholarship | Varies | January 31 | Students with schizophrenia, schizoaffective, or bipolar disorder |
| Sertoma Scholarship | $1,000 | March 31 | Students with 40dB+ bilateral hearing loss, 3.2 GPA |
| AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship | $1,000 | March | Students with disabilities studying health-related fields |
| INCIGHT Scholarship | $500 (100 awards) | April 15 | Students with ADA-qualifying disabilities in OR, WA, or CA |
The Microsoft Disability Scholarship stands out among scholarships students with disabilities programs. It provides $5,000 per year for four years. Eight students receive this award annually. Applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA and must pursue STEM, law, or business. Scholarship America administers the program on Microsoft’s behalf.
The ChairScholars Foundation offers one of the largest single awards available. Students with major physical disabilities can receive up to $30,000 for tuition. However, applicants must maintain a B+ average and demonstrate significant community service. The National Federation of the Blind awards over 30 scholarships of $8,000 each every year. That makes it the largest scholarship program specifically for blind students in the country.
For example, the Google Lime Scholarship combines financial support with career opportunities. Winners receive $10,000 and an invitation to Google’s Scholars’ Retreat. They also get considered for software engineering internships. This program targets computer science and engineering majors specifically.
Eligibility Requirements for Scholarships Students With Disabilities
Most scholarships students with disabilities programs require official documentation. A diagnosis from a qualified physician, psychologist, or audiologist is typically needed. Many programs require documentation dated within two years. For hearing-related awards, a current audiogram is mandatory. The Sertoma Scholarship requires 40dB bilateral hearing loss. AG Bell requires 60dB loss diagnosed before age four.
GPA requirements vary widely across these programs. Microsoft requires a minimum 2.5 GPA. Sertoma requires 3.2. AG Bell requires 3.25 unweighted. ChairScholars expects a B+ average or higher. In most cases, applicants also need two letters of recommendation. These should come from teachers, employers, or community leaders who know the student well.
Financial need plays a role in many awards. The Wells Fargo Stacey Milbern Scholarship considers financial circumstances. The Baer Reintegration Scholarship works directly with school financial aid offices. Students should complete the FAFSA regardless. As a result, they qualify for both need-based and merit-based opportunities simultaneously.
Application Tips for Scholarships Students With Disabilities
Start tracking deadlines early. Scholarships students with disabilities can apply for have deadlines spanning January through May. The Baer Reintegration Scholarship closes January 31. ChairScholars closes in February. Microsoft and Wells Fargo close in March. Create a spreadsheet with every deadline and requirement. Missing a deadline by even one day means automatic disqualification.
Write your personal essay authentically. Scholarship committees read hundreds of applications. They want to hear your real story. Describe how your disability shaped your perspective. Explain specific challenges you overcame. However, avoid making the essay only about hardship. Focus on growth, goals, and what you will contribute. Committees look for resilience paired with ambition. They want to invest in students who will make an impact.
Apply broadly to maximize your chances. Even small awards like the INCIGHT Scholarship at $500 add up quickly. That program alone awards 100 scholarships per year. Stack multiple smaller awards alongside larger ones. Students can also check out bank sign-up bonuses at Bonus Bank Daily to earn extra cash for textbooks or living expenses. Every dollar reduces student loan debt.
Where to Find More Scholarships Students With Disabilities
The U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration oversees state vocational rehabilitation programs. These federally funded programs can cover tuition, fees, books, and assistive technology. Every state has a VR agency. Typically, students do not need to wait until college. Pre-Employment Transition Services are available to high school students with disabilities.
Several databases specialize in scholarships students with disabilities opportunities. Scholarships360 lists over 120 disability-specific awards. Fastweb maintains a dedicated disability scholarship category. The DO-IT program at the University of Washington publishes comprehensive scholarship guides. The National Center for Learning Disabilities website lists awards for students with learning disabilities specifically.
State-level programs are often overlooked. For example, California offers WorkAbility III programs at community colleges. Georgia has the Bud McCall Post-Secondary VR Grant for students with IEP or 504 plans. In most cases, your school’s disability services office can point you toward regional and local awards that receive fewer applications. Less competition means better odds of winning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to disclose my specific diagnosis when applying for scholarships students with disabilities?
It depends on the program. Some scholarships require detailed medical documentation. However, others only need verification that you have an ADA-qualifying condition. Typically, your information stays confidential within the selection committee.
Can I apply for scholarships students with disabilities if I have an invisible disability like ADHD or anxiety?
Yes. Many programs accept invisible disabilities including learning disabilities, ADHD, and mental health conditions. For example, the Wells Fargo Stacey Milbern Scholarship defines disability broadly. The Baer Reintegration Scholarship specifically serves students with psychiatric conditions.
Are scholarships students with disabilities programs renewable or one-time awards?
Both types exist. The Microsoft Disability Scholarship renews for four years at $5,000 per year. The Anne Ford Scholarship also renews over four years. However, many awards like the NFB scholarships and Sertoma are one-time. As a result, students should apply for new scholarships every academic year.
Explore More Scholarship Resources
Looking for more scholarships, financial aid guides, and strategies to pay for college? Browse our complete library of scholarship resources.
Official Sources & Resources
For verified information on scholarships, financial aid, and federal student programs:
- Federal Student Aid: studentaid.gov
- U.S. Department of Education: ed.gov
- College Board: collegeboard.org
- NASFAA (National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators): nasfaa.org
- NCES (National Center for Education Statistics): nces.ed.gov
- IRS Education Credits: irs.gov
Content last reviewed April 2026. If you notice any outdated information, please contact us.