Scholarships for Students with Disabilities: A Complete Guide for 2025/2026

Students with disabilities face unique challenges throughout their academic journeys, from navigating inaccessible environments to dealing with financial strain. Fortunately, there are many scholarships for students with disabilities aimed at reducing the financial barriers to education and empowering these students to achieve their academic and career goals. Whether you’re a high school senior, a current college student, or a graduate student living with a disability, there are scholarship opportunities out there specifically designed to support your success. This article provides an in-depth, updated guide to finding, applying for, and winning scholarships for students with disabilities in 2025 and beyond.

Why Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Matter

According to the U.S. Department of Education, nearly 20% of undergraduate students in the United States report having some form of disability. Despite legal protections and increased accessibility, students with disabilities still face disproportionate barriers in higher education. These include increased medical expenses, lack of transportation, or the need for specialized assistive technology. Scholarships tailored to students with disabilities not only provide financial aid but also validate the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in education.

Types of Disabilities Eligible for Scholarships

Scholarships for students with disabilities vary depending on the sponsor and criteria. Common disability categories include:

Physical Disabilities (e.g., mobility impairments, cerebral palsy)

Sensory Disabilities (e.g., blindness, deafness)

Learning Disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, ADHD)

Mental Health Conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, PTSD)

Chronic Illnesses (e.g., epilepsy, diabetes, Crohn’s disease)

Neurodivergence (e.g., autism spectrum disorder)

Some scholarships are open to students with any disability, while others are specific to certain conditions.

Top Scholarships for Students with Disabilities in 2025

Google Lime Scholarship

Amount: $10,000 (U.S.) / $5,000 (Canada)

Eligibility: Students with visible or invisible disabilities pursuing computer science, computer engineering, or related fields.

Deadline: Typically in March.

Highlights: Offers mentorship, career development, and internship opportunities with Google.

Microsoft Disability Scholarship

Amount: $5,000 renewable up to four years.

Eligibility: High school seniors with a disability planning to study in the tech industry.

Deadline: March annually.

Extras: Aims to empower students interested in STEM, business, or law.

AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disability

Amount: $1,000

Eligibility: Students with disabilities pursuing studies related to public health, disability studies, or healthcare.

Deadline: Typically in November.

Key Feature: Focuses on advocacy, inclusion, and health care access.

The Anne Ford Scholarship

Amount: $10,000 over four years

Eligibility: High school seniors with a documented learning disability and/or ADHD.

Deadline: December

Focus: Encourages students pursuing higher education despite learning differences.

180 Medical Scholarship Program

Amount: $1,000

Eligibility: Students with spinal cord injuries, spina bifida, transverse myelitis, or neurogenic bladder.

Deadline: June 1 annually.

Benefit: Tailored to students who use urological supplies and have overcome medical challenges.

Scholarships from the National Federation of the Blind (NFB)

Amount: Up to $8,000

Eligibility: Blind or visually impaired students pursuing post-secondary education.

Deadline: March

Extras: Includes an all-expenses-paid trip to the NFB national convention.

Foundation for Science and Disability Student Award Program

Amount: $1,000

Eligibility: Graduate students with disabilities in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM).

Deadline: September

Purpose: Promotes inclusion of students with disabilities in scientific careers.

How to Find More Scholarships for Students with Disabilities

Start with Disability-Focused Organizations

Many nonprofit organizations provide scholarships or maintain up-to-date databases:

National Center for Learning Disabilities

American Association on Health and Disability

U.S. Business Leadership Network (USBLN)

Learning Disabilities Association of America

Autism Society of America

Check With Your College’s Disability Services Office

Most colleges have disability service offices that manage or promote scholarships exclusive to their students. They may also offer application help and advocacy support.

Use Scholarship Search Engines

Use filters to refine scholarships by disability:

• Scholarships.com
• Fastweb
• Cappex
• Niche
• Going Merry

Contact Local Disability Advocacy Groups

Local nonprofits often offer smaller, community-based scholarships with fewer applicants.

How to Apply for Scholarships as a Student with a Disability

Step 1: Gather Documentation

You may be asked to submit:

Proof of disability (IEP, medical letter, or ADA documentation)

Academic transcripts

Letters of recommendation

Proof of enrollment or acceptance

Step 2: Write a Strong Personal Statement

Address

How your disability has shaped your goals

What challenges you’ve overcome

Your career aspirations

Why the scholarship matters to you

Step 3: Tailor Each Application

Don’t reuse the same essay for every scholarship. Make it relevant to the organization’s mission.

Step 4: Meet the Deadlines

Mark every deadline on a calendar. Late submissions are rarely accepted.

Step 5: Follow Up

Send thank-you notes if awarded and keep in touch with scholarship providers—they may offer additional support or mentorship.

Tips to Improve Your Scholarship Application

Be Honest and Positive: Focus on strengths and growth rather than limitations.

Demonstrate Impact: Share how the scholarship will help you contribute to society.

Get Recommendations: Ask teachers, counselors, or disability advocates who know your story.

Proofread Everything: Spelling errors or grammar issues can hurt your chances.

Highlight Extracurriculars: Show involvement in advocacy, volunteer work, or leadership roles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are there scholarships for students with invisible disabilities?

Yes. Many scholarships accept applicants with conditions like ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, or chronic illnesses. Documentation from a licensed medical provider or counselor is usually required.

Can students with disabilities apply for general scholarships too?

Absolutely. Students with disabilities should apply for both disability-specific and general scholarships to maximize their funding opportunities.

Is financial need always required?

Not always. Some scholarships are based on merit, field of study, or advocacy work rather than financial need.

Are there scholarships for international students with disabilities?

Yes. Some organizations like Mobility International USA or specific university programs offer scholarships to international students with disabilities, though options may be more limited.

Scholarships by Disability Type

Scholarships for Students with Physical Disabilities

The Ethel Louise Armstrong Foundation Scholarship: For women with physical disabilities pursuing graduate degrees.

The AmeriGlide Achiever Scholarship: For mobility-impaired students attending college full-time.

Scholarships for Students with Learning Disabilities

The Allegra Ford Thomas Scholarship: $2,500 one-time award for students with learning disabilities.

Gemini College Fund: Open to students with dyslexia or similar learning challenges.

Scholarships for Students with Mental Health Challenges

The Baer Reintegration Scholarship: For individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or schizoaffective disorder.

JED Foundation: Offers resources and occasional scholarship opportunities focused on mental health advocacy.

Scholarships for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students

Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: Offers multiple scholarships up to $10,000.

Gallaudet University Scholarships: For students attending the premier university for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Scholarships for Blind and Visually Impaired Students

American Council of the Blind (ACB) Scholarships: Offers multiple awards to legally blind students across all levels.

Lighthouse Guild Scholarships: $10,000 for college-bound students with vision loss.

Other Financial Support for Students with Disabilities

Aside from scholarships, students with disabilities can benefit from:

Federal Student Aid

Eligible for Pell Grants, Work-Study, and Loans

Apply via FAFSA

Some federal loans can be discharged due to total and permanent disability (TPD)

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services

State-run programs offering financial support, training, and career placement for students with disabilities.

Social Security Benefits

Some students with disabilities may qualify for SSI (Supplemental Security Income) or SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), which can assist with living expenses.

College Tuition Waivers

Some states offer tuition waivers or discounts for students with disabilities at public colleges.

How Scholarships Help Build Inclusive Education

Scholarships don’t just help cover costs. They:

Promote Diversity in academic spaces

Encourage Accessibility and innovation in learning environments

Empower Students to become leaders and advocates in their communities

Reduce Dropout Rates caused by financial or medical challenges

With the right resources and support, students with disabilities can thrive, pursue their dreams, and contribute significantly to society.

Final Thoughts: Start Applying Today

Scholarships for students with disabilities are more than just financial aid—they’re investments in potential. If you or someone you know is navigating the college journey with a disability, start exploring and applying early. There are national, local, and institutional awards waiting to be claimed.

By embracing your unique story and leveraging the many resources available, you can turn challenges into stepping stones and achieve remarkable success in your academic and professional life.