American Foundation for the Blind
Scholarship Name: American Foundation for the Blind Scholarships
Description: The American Foundation for the Blind is the leading organization dedicated to the service and empowerment of the people with visual impairments and legal blindness. Gaining acceptance to college, and ultimately getting a degree, is an essential part of life for many young people, and the American Foundation for the Blind offers scholarships to help make that happen for deserving students. Students are required to write an essay about their personal and educational goals in order to apply for scholarship money, which should include how the scholarship money will be used. You can be a graduating senior, or currently attending undergraduate school and be eligible for scholarships. You’ll also need the support of teachers, advisors or rehabilitation counselors who will write a letter of recommendation for your application.
Award: varies
Awards per Year: Varies
Award is Open to: High school seniors and undergraduate students
Major/Field of Study: Open
How to Apply/Contact: Learn more about the American Foundation for the Blind and scholarship opportunities at the AFB website.
Sertoma
Scholarship Name: Sertoma Scholarships for Hearing Impaired Students
Description: Hearing impaired students face unique challenges in traditional learning environments, and the prospect of going to college can seem daunting. Sponsored by Sertoma, a service organization for those with hearing health issues, the Sertoma Scholarships for Hearing Impaired Students tries to relieve some of the burden associated with college. They raise money through fund raising projects with local chapters and affiliates, so if you aren’t already involved with Sertoma, now is a great time to start. You must have clinically significant bilateral hearing loss to qualify for funding (as well as a GPA above 3.2), and the $1,000 award can be used for anything having to do with the cost of college attendance, not just tuition.
Award: $1,000
Awards per Year: 20
Award is Open to: Undergraduate students
How to Apply/Contact: Full application materials, information about Sertoma projects and local affiliate and chapter contact information can be found on Sertoma.