Financial Assistance Opportunities for Students With Disabilities

Although it hasn’t always been the case, today's post-secondary schools are places where students with disabilities can flourish and reach their full potential, with most offering resources to help these students successfully navigate higher education. Many schools and organizations offer assistance to help students with disabilities reach their education goals and find meaningful employment, from tutoring to financial aid and tax breaks.

There are various scholarships and grants for students with disabilities. While individual research helps students find the most suitable scholarships, finding debt-free college resources can be challenging. We've curated a list that offers a starting point, highlighting scholarships for students with disabilities and providing details on how and when to apply.

Although the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates equal learning experiences, students with physical ailments, mobility or travel limitations and neurological conditions often incur higher educational costs. Scholarships for these students help lower financial barriers, supporting their academic and career goals.

The following scholarships acknowledge that students with learning disabilities can excel in various fields despite facing challenges. They provide targeted support and help students with learning disabilities manage finances. Below is a list of scholarships tailored for students with learning disabilities.

Various organizations offer scholarships to students with visual impairments and hearing loss. Below are scholarships specifically for these students.

These scholarships recognize the potential of students with autism and developmental disorders to achieve their academic goals and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

These scholarships are designed to support students navigating the complexities of mental health conditions while striving for academic success.

The following scholarships are open to students with disabilities pursuing particular fields of study or meeting certain enrollment requirements. They are not tailored to students with specific types of ability or impairment.

Grants come from various sources — including federal, state and private entities — each with its own set of eligibility criteria and application processes. Below is an overview of the different types of grants and specific grant programs that can assist students with disabilities.

Some colleges and universities offer financial aid for students with disabilities. A handful of private schools focus on learners with disabilities. Here are a few of them:

Certain educational expenses — especially those related to managing or alleviating a disability — may qualify as deductible medical expenses. Here's a breakdown to help students with disabilities navigate potential tax deductions and breaks pertaining to their education:

If you become disabled after graduation, you might be eligible for loan forgiveness. The U.S. Department of Education offers complete discharge of Direct Loans, Federal Family Education Loans and Perkins Loans to borrowers deemed to have a total and permanent disability (TPD). Student loan policies and forgiveness programs may evolve, so staying informed about current regulations and opportunities for loan forgiveness is crucial.

A focused and strategic approach can significantly improve your chances of success. Here are actionable tips that can guide you through the application process for disability scholarships and grants:

Reecy Aresty, college financial aid adviser and author of How to Pay for College Without Going Broke, has watched American universities make huge strides in accommodating students with disabilities. "There's so much more attention given to students with disabilities," says Aresty, "That's one of the blessings of living in the 21st century." Although colleges have grown more welcoming to students with disabilities, financial aid remains confusing for all students. Aresty offers some advice for navigating the money maze.

We've curated a list of additional resources that offer information, support and tools designed to empower students with disabilities to make informed decisions about their education and financial planning.

• ADA.gov: Managed by the federal Department of Justice, this website provides in-depth information on the Americans with Disabilities Act, a critical piece of legislation ensuring equal rights.
• CareerOneStop Scholarship Finder: A resource from the U.S. Department of Labor that allows users to search for scholarships by disability, geographic location and study level.
• Disability Rights Office: A federal office dedicated to protecting the rights of people with disabilities, offering resources and assistance on a wide range of issues.
• Federal Student Aid: Published by the U.S. Department of Education, this page contains comprehensive details on loans, grants and work-study options. It features helpful guides for preparing for college, avoiding scams and managing debt.
• Understood: An organization that provides support, resources and community for people who learn and think differently, including students with disabilities preparing for or currently in college.