20 Schol­ar­ships for Students with Learning Dis­abil­i­ties Top 20 Schol­ar­ships

Ready to start your journey?

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.

If you are a student who is applying for learning disability scholarships, you may be wondering if you have to be diagnosed with a disability. In most cases, the answer is no. This is especially true if you have a pronounced or noticeable disability. These disabilities include being blind, deaf or hearing impaired, physically impaired either through a genetic disease or as the result of an accident that resulted in bodily injury. Another reason that you may not be asked for documentation is for the simple fact that the information is probably already included somewhere in your school files. Either a doctor’s note stating your condition or your letters of recommendation may include information about you having to overcome specific obstacles to achieve your educational goals.

Other disabilities are not easy to see and are sometimes referred to as invisible. You can’t see them and it may be difficult to determine if they even exist if you don’t know what you are looking for. Students with ADHD, dyslexia, mental illness, clinical depression, fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis (just to name a few) are often overlooked because their disability isn’t visible enough. In situations like this, there may be a record of the student’s diagnosis in their file. In case there isn’t, however, it would be a good idea to have your documentation available if it is requested.

1

AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disability

The American Association on Health and Disability (AAHD) works to establish equality between people with disabilities and the general public. As a result, there mission is to “advance health promotion and wellness initiatives for children and adults with disabilities.” The AAHD accomplishes these goals by curating the AAHD Health Promotion Resource Center, representing people with disabilities in national events, sharing current research with the public, and providing technical assistance to academic schools and institutions. The AAHD promotes health and wellness in all people with disabilities by identifying effective intervention strategies to lessen health disparities between the general public and people with disabilities.

The AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disability offers a scholarship (1) one time per year to deserving students. To quality, a student with a disability must be enrolled as sophomore (at a minimum) in college. He or she must pursuing undergraduate/graduate studies in a field pertaining to health and disability. The committee is limited to awarding $1000.00, but the committee has the freedom to determine how many students are awarded a scholarship and how the $1000.00 is divided. Four students received the scholarship for the 2018-2019 school year.

2

Baer Reintegration Scholarship

The Center for Reintegration strives to help individuals with mental illness reintegrate with the general population. Reintegration is achieved with meaningful work, quality education, and the development of independent living skills. The Center for Reintegration provides resources as well as support for people with mental illness looking to reintegrate with the general public.

The Baer Reintegration Scholarship offers a scholarship to help those who fit the criteria and are seeking a quality education. The scholarship is available to US residents and those living in US territories currently attending school in the United States. The scholarship is not available to US residents currently living abroad. Awards are issued yearly, but the amount is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Applicants must be currently under the care of a psychiatrist and this referral is necessary for the application process. Each applicant must submit a total of three recommendations from his or her psychiatrist and other prescribing authorities. Applicants may apply online or via mail.

3

DREAM Institute HEAP Scholar Award Scholarship

The DREAM Institute aims to boost the educational experience of individuals with disabilities. The DREAM Institutes promotes a successful higher educational in three ways. The DREAM Institute provides academic mentorship, academic assistance (tutoring), and learning disability scholarships. The institute is a non-profit charitable organization founded by Kristy Long. Long founded the institute after battling with her own disabilities. The DREAM Institute also provides academic mentoring to further the academic success of individuals with disabilities. Academic mentors can include guidance counselors, professors, and even alumni from the DREAM Institute.

The DREAM Institute covers the Higher Education Assistance Program (HEAP). This program offers the HEAP Scholar Award to eligible students in Oklahoma. Besides a monetary award, the scholarship also includes the academic assistance and an orientation workshop. During the workshop, students will develop skills that will further boost their success. This includes study skills, career assessments, and more.

4

FSD Science Graduate Student Grant Fund

The Foundation for Science and Disability (FSD) is a nonprofit organization associated with the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The mission of FSD is to promote opportunities for individuals with disabilities to study the following areas: science, mathematics, engineering, technology, dental, pre-med, etc. The Foundation for Science and Disability (FSD) – which was founded in 1975 — is a non-profit organization. FSD encourages the assimilation of scientists with disabilities into the scientific community. The goal is help students with disabilities who are interested in a career in a scientific field achieve those goals. To reach these goals, FSD assists students in the pursuit of meaningful employment opportunities within their field and advocating for improved work environments for scientists with disabilities. To help support children, the FSD created the Science Graduate Student Grant Fund.

The FSD Science Graduate Student Grant Fund is awarded to eligible students. To be considered eligible, a student must have a disability and be enrolled as a fourth year undergraduates. The student must be studied one of the science areas listed below: Engineering, Mathematics, Science, Technology, or Medicine. A $1000 award to given to support the student’s research project of choice, or the award may be applied to an assistive device, assistance instrument, or another related need.

5

Gemm Learning “Dyslexia/APD” Scholarship

Gemm Learning seeks to improve the home experience of individuals with dyslexia and/or auditory processing disorder. Gemm Learning is staffed by educators and parents experienced with dyslexia and offers five different programs to help improve the lives of children at home. In addition to home life, Gemm Learning also helps to improve the lives of children at school too.

The Dyslexia/ APD Scholarship is available for individuals with dyslexia and/or auditory processing disorder who are entering college. To apply, students must submit proof of college enrollment as well as a 500-word essay entitled “ Living With Dyslexia/APD.” One $1000 scholarship is awarded to a one student. His or her essay is also featured on the Gemm Learning blog page.

6

Incight - Go Getter Scholarship

Incight helps individuals reach their full potential, whether that is through an education, through meaningful employment, or through the development of lifestyle skills. Incight offers a scholarship program as well as INCIGHTFUL Transitions Curriculum program to help students reach their full potential.

The Incight Go Getter Scholarship is available for Washington, Oregon, or California residents with any type of documented disability listed in the DSV-M. This includes autism, speech delays, traumatic brain injury, orthopedic disability, developmental delay, specific learning disabilities, and more. The Go Getter Scholarship recipients are required to volunteer a total of 30 service hours.

7

Jared Monroe Foundation

The Jared Monroe Foundation helps students with bipolar disorder who cannot afford a quality college education. Eligible students must currently be seeking treatment for bipolar disorder and be a graduating senior in high school or already enrolled as a freshman, sophomore, or junior in college.

The Jared Monroe Foundation award is composed of donations. The $2,300.00 award may be used for tuition, room and board, and even books or other fees.

8

Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation

The Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation is a non-profit organization inspired by the life of Joseph James Morelli. The Foundation supports students with specific conditions — dyslexia, dysgraphia, and/or dyscalculia — who are actively seeking a degree in a STEM field. Learning disability scholarships like this one apply to students seek degrees in Technology, Science, Mathematics, and Engineering.

The Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation is proud to offer many scholarships. On average, 20% of applicants receive an award. The recipient of the award may apply their funds to tuition, books, tutoring, and other services (such as assistive technology).

9

Karina Eide Memorial College Scholarship

Dyslexic Advantage is a non-profit, charitable organization that strives to help students with dyslexia succeed in higher education. Dyslexic Advantage provides support and resources as well as learning disability scholarships.

The Karina Eide Memorial College Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia is available for students already in college and have successfully completed their first semester. Students must be in a 2-year or 4-year college, university, or technical school. Although the students must already be enrolled, there is non GPA requirement for this award. Graduating high school seniors are not able to apply for this scholarship.

10

Learning Disabilities Association of Arkansas - Ralph G. Norman Scholarship

The Learning Disabilities Association of Arkansas encourages academic and personal success in individuals with learning disabilities. The Learning Disabilities Association of Arkansas provides parent and professional outreach, resources for parents and students, information and studies pertaining to learning disabilities. The Learning Disabilities Association of Arkansas also heads two programs: the Healthy Children Project and Project TENDR. The Healthy Children Project is designed to raise awareness about the environmental factors that influence the development of learning disabilities. Project TENDR released a national press release, demanding the reduction of toxic exposures that are linked to neurodevelopmental disorders in children. In addition to the public awareness and advocacy, the Learning Disabilities Association of Arkansas provides scholarship opportunities for individuals diagnosed with learning disabilities.

Three (3) learning disability scholarships ($2,500 awards) are offered to Arkansas residents only. Applicants must be diagnosed with a learning disability, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia. The recipient must be enrolled at a 2-year or 4-year school. Students in vocational or technical training programs are also permitted to apply. The award is paid to the awardee in two parts: $1250 for the fall semester and $1250 for the spring semester.

11

Learning Disabilities Association of Iowa

The Learning Disabilities Association of Iowa offers two disability scholarships for seniors who are preparing to enter a vocational school or college. Scholarships for students with disabilities can be used for either two-year programs or four-year programs, as well as vocational training programs. In order to be eligible to be considered for the scholarship, students must be able to verify proof of a disability. Two scholarships for students with disabilities valued at $500 each will be awarded each year. The deadline to submit an application is March 30.

The Learning Disabilities Association of Iowa was established over 50 years ago and is dedicated to helping disabled individuals get what they need in terms of education and training. This includes improving legislation, educational practices, and training models so that students with disabilities can have access to the educational opportunities they need to succeed. The disability scholarships offered by The Learning Disabilities Association of Iowa are offered as a way of opening doors for students with disabilities.

12

Lime Connect - BMO Capital Markets Equity Through Education Scholarship

Lime Connect Equity Through Education Scholarship is for students with either a visible or non-visible disability who intend to pursue a degree in commerce, business, computer science, engineering, finance, etc. By partnering with BMO Capital Markets, Lime Connect can provide scholarships to students with disabilities and provide them with educational opportunities that will allow them to reach their career goals. Disability scholarships are for either $10,000 USD for US students. Canadian students will receive $5,000 USD. The deadline to submit applications is October 15.

Lime Connect is a non-profit, international organization that is changing the way people perceive disabilities. By focusing on achievements and not limitations, the organization is showing what people with disabilities can accomplish when given the right opportunities. The disability scholarships they offer are intended to allow students to achieve goals and establish themselves as professionals in their chosen careers.

13

Lime Connect - Google-Lime Scholarship

The Google-Lime Scholarship is for students with invisible disabilities. The goal is to provide young scholars with a chance to attend college without any financial obstacles being put in their path. Google and Lime Connect are working together to offer students educational opportunities through the use of scholarships and various types of retreats designed to improve networking and computer science skills. Students with disabilities can use the scholarships to pursue degrees that will allow them to work and communicate with other professionals in their field. US students will get $10,000 while Canadian students will receive $5,000. December 12 is the deadline for submitting applications.

Lime Connect strives to change how individuals with disabilities are perceived. As a non-profit, international organization, they work to provide disability scholarships to students who are interested in excelling in their education and pursuing a career in the professional world. By connecting professionals with students, Lime Connect is using achievement as a barometer in terms of defining disability. Students are given the chance to prove that their disabilities do not define them or their academic capabilities.

14

Marion Huber Learning Through Listening Awards

The Marion Huber Learning Through Listening Awards are given to high school seniors who have been diagnosed with learning disabilities and are members of Learning Ally. Students who have been recognized for their outstanding achievements in both academics and leadership, as well as those who volunteer and perform community service. Each year, six students are chosen to receive Learning Ally Awards. $6,000 is awarded to the top three students, while the final three winners with special honors receive $2,000 apiece. September 30 is the final deadline for students to enter the submissions.

Marion Humber was dedicated to assisting students with learning disabilities in reaching their educational goals. Mrs. Huber created a permanent endowment fund so that students would continue to receive disability scholarships to help them achieve their goals. The scholarships for students with disabilities were just one way she worked to make education a priority.

15

Nabi Family Scholarship

The University of Michigan offers two scholarships for students with disabilities that are sponsored by the Nabi Family. The Nabi Family Scholarships are for students who are already registered with the University of Michigan and are receiving assistance for their learning disabilities. To earn the scholarship you must be a resident of the state of Michigan. In order to apply, students must be able to show proof of financial need as well as include a letter stating how the money from the scholarship would be used to help them excel in school. Two $4,000 scholarships are given out this year. There is no set deadline for submission.

The Services for Students with Disabilities works hand in hand with the University of Michigan to ensure that disability scholarships are available. The Nabi Family offers financial support in the way of two scholarships that are awarded each year to ensure students from the state of Michigan can pursue their education in spite of any learning disabilities they may have.

16

NCLD - Allegra Ford Thomas Scholarship

The Allegra Ford Thomas Scholarship is a multi-year award. The award is provided for two years at $2,500 each year. Students who are graduating from high school and have a diagnosed learning disability or an ADHD diagnosis can apply for the scholarship. It can be used at a vocational/technical training college or a two-year community college. Specialized programs that have been developed for ADHD/LD students are also acceptable. The scholarships have been developed to provide financial assistance to students with learning disabilities who are actively pursuing their post-high school education. The deadline for applications is January 17.

The National Center for Learning Disabilities offers a variety of scholarships to help students with disabilities pursue their educational goals. The philosophy of the organization is to ensure that each student who has been diagnosed with disabilities has the same opportunities as other students. It is their goal that each student has the self-confidence they need to succeed in whatever career they choose to explore.

17

NCLD - Anne Ford Scholarship

The Anne Ford Scholarship is a four-year award that has been developed to assist students who have been diagnosed with a disability and are enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program. The student must attend school full time. The student must be committed to pursuing their degree and be able to demonstrate their desire to advocate for themselves. Their involvement in both school and community activities is also beneficial. The scholarship will be given to the student once a year for four years, with each contribution totaling $2,500. The total award at the end of the four years is $10,000. The deadline for enrollment is January 17.

The National Center for Learning Disabilities offers the Anne Ford Scholarship, as well as many others, to students with different types of learning disabilities. The scholarships for students with disabilities offers them an opportunity to attend school and pursue the type of degree program they need to achieve their personal and professional goals, in spite of any disabilities they may have.

18

P. Buckley Moss Foundation

The P. Buckley Moss Endowed Scholarship is specifically for students who have a language-related disability. The P. Buckley Moss Foundation offers scholarships for students with disabilities who are interested in pursuing their education in the area of visual arts. Disability scholarships are awarded to students who can prove they have financial need as well as having a documented or diagnosed, speech-related disability. They must also have artistic talent. Each scholarship awarded is valued at $1,000 and is one good for one year. The deadline for all submissions is March 31.

As a certified not for profit organization, all donations made to the P. Buckley Moss Foundation for Children’s Education go to fund its scholarship program. Te fund was established in 1995 and now has thousands of members across the world. The organization is dedicated to assisting students with language-related learning disabilities in achieving their career goals by providing excellent opportunities in education.

19

Pine Cone Foundation

The Pine Cone Foundation offers scholarships for students with disabilities who only live in Sacramento, California. Disability scholarships offered by the Pine Cone Foundation provide learning opportunities for students who are ready to take the next step in their education. The student must be able to verify their disability with appropriate documentation. There are six scholarships that are given away each year. The amount of each scholarship will vary based on the student’s needs and other factors, such as leadership abilities and academic achievements. Multiple-year scholarships are offered to assist students year after year. The deadline to submit an application is April 1.

The Pine Cone Foundation was established by a private family and has non-profit status. The goal of the Foundation is to make provide students with positive reinforcement so they can pursue their educational goals and obtain their degree in whatever career path they choose to follow.

20

Smart Kids with LD - Fred J. Epstein Youth Achievement Award

The Smart Kids with LD offers the Fred J. Epstein Youth Achievement Award is offered to students with disabilities from all over the country. These scholarships for students with disabilities are offered to assist in covering the cost of their secondary education. Students who have been diagnosed with a learning disability or ADHD and have shown outstanding academic performance are eligible to apply. The ultimate goal is to provide these students with the opportunity they need to further their education and pursue their career goals. The dollar amount for each disability scholarship will vary. January 30 is the deadline to submit the application.

Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities is a not for profit organization that offers scholarships and learning opportunities to kids with proven learning disabilities. The organization goes to great lengths to provide parents with resources and tools that will allow their children to continue to pursue their education after they graduate high school.

Are There Scholarships for Students with Dyslexia?

Scholarships are available for a variety of disabilities, even dyslexia. Students who have been diagnosed with dyslexia, or one of its many variations, can apply for scholarship money that has been set aside solely for those who have the disorder. Dyslexia can be extremely hard to diagnose and ranges in severity from very mild to extremely severe. Students who must deal with dyslexia on a regular basis have to learn to adapt their learning style to fit their disability.

Scholarships for students with dyslexia are designed to provide the financial assistance these students need to give them an opportunity to learn just as easily as their peers who do not have the disorder. When applying for these scholarships, the student may be asked to provide some sort of documentation proving that they qualify for this type of assistance. In most cases, the student’s former teachers may have already written a letter of recommendation that states the student has dyslexia and how it happens to affect their learning ability.

Are There Scholarships for Students with Depression or Other Mental Illness?

Depression and mental illness are two of the more invisible disabilities that students must deal with on a regular basis. They also have the least number of scholarships set aside for students who have been diagnosed with disorders that fall into these categories. While there are mental illness scholarships available, they can be hard to qualify for. Depression scholarships are also a little tricky. With either type of scholarship, it’s best to include your documentation when you first apply for the scholarship.

Including your letter of diagnosis along with your letters of recommendation from your teachers, co-workers, and other professionals will show that you are not making false claims and that you are a patient with these particular disorders. If the student has been diagnosed for many years, there may already be a note in their file. It doesn’t hurt, however, to get another letter stating the student’s diagnosis with a more recent date on it. In some cases, a copy of their medical history may be available that includes any of the medications they may be required to take to help control their disorder.

Are There Scholarships for Students with ADHD?

Much like there are scholarships for students with clinical depression and mental illness, there are also ADHD scholarships as well. College scholarships for students with ADHD are more readily available than the ones for mental illness and clinical depression. For many students, there are already notes in their school files about their ADHD diagnosis due to the medication they may be required to take while they are at school. While ADHD is considered an invisible disability, it does have moments where indicators are present.

Students who suffer from ADHD are often overly active and it may be necessary for them to get up and walk around during class. Some may be better able to control their physical activity and outbursts of energy, but others may struggle with it constantly, even if they are taking medication. ADHD scholarships are designed to take some of the financial hardship off of the student and their families so they can continue to learn and move forward on their path to higher learning. With ADHD, even the smallest distraction can upset the learning process. Having an ADHD scholarship in place will make it easier for the student to stay focused on their studies.

Related:

Scholarships for Disabled Students

Scholarships for Students on the Autism Spectrum

30 Best Colleges for Students with Learning Disabilities

10 Important Facts About Learning Disabilities and Online College

Ready to start your journey?

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.

Ready to start your journey?

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.