College Scholarships Available to Students with Learning Disabilities

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by Eileen Bailey
Tuesday, January 12, 2010

High school students with learning disabilities have, many times, overcome numerous obstacles and often work harder and longer than students without learning disabilities to achieve the same grades. Sometimes, grades are inconsistent or lower than those of students without learning disabilities, even though the student may work even harder.

For some, modifications to the acceptance policy at a college is all the help that is needed. Changing standards, such as having an interview rather than a written essay, can help a student be accepted into a college. It is certainly possible for students to request modifications during the acceptance process just as students can request accommodations to help achieve success in college. For others, scholarships can offer much needed financial assistance while attending college.

The following programs offer scholarships specifically for students with learning disabilities. Keep in mind other criteria may also need to be met. Students may need to show examples of leadership or achievement. They may need to show financial need or indicate why they believe they are deserving of the scholarship. Please also check for deadlines or specific time frames to apply for each scholarship.

Anne Ford and Allegra Ford Scholarship

The National Center for Learning Disabilities gives out two $10,000 awards to high school students with an identified learning disability. The student must be planning to attend college and work toward an undergraduate degree

The Hal Hazelett Scholarship

Two scholarships are awarded: one for a student with LD who is planning to or attending college and working toward a degree in education or in math, one for a student with ADHD.

Incight Go Getter Scholarship

This scholarship is available to a student with any disability that is attending an post-secondary school. Applicants must show documented proof of their disability, must plan to attend college full time, and must provide a letter of recommendation. The scholarship is $750.00.

The Marion Huber Learning Through Listening Award

Available to members of Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic. Six scholarships are awarded: three for $6,000 and three for $2,000. Scholarships available to high school seniors with LD. Students must demonstrate leadership, scholarship and a high level of service to others.

Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities Youth Achievement Award

Scholarship for $1,000 awarded to a student with either LD or ADHD that has demonstrated initiative, talent and determination and has demonstrated achievement in any field.

Harbison Scholarship

A $1,500 scholarship to a high school senior with a language-related learning disability and is planning on attending college. Student must be nominated by a member of the P. Buckle Moss Society. Student must provide documentation of LD, high school transcript and two letters of recommendation.