Scholarships for Cancer, Disabilities, or Other Health Conditions

What is a college scholarship?

A college scholarship is money that you apply for to help pay for school. You can use it for college, trade school, or job training. This money can come from: 

• Colleges, universities, and trade schools 
• Federal, state, and local government programs 
• Nonprofit groups and charities 
• Companies and professional groups 
• Community, cultural, and support groups 
• Religious groups 
• Military groups 

You usually do not have to pay this money back. 

Who can get a scholarship

Many students can apply for scholarships. But each scholarship has its own rules. 

Some scholarships are for students with certain experiences, interests, or goals. A scholarship may be based on: 

• Your health history or medical condition  
• A disability 
• Your grades or schoolwork 
• Your career goals or interests 
• Your work in the community  
• Your family background 
• Where you live 

Many students get more than one scholarship. Apply for scholarships that are right for you. 

How to apply for a scholarship

Each scholarship has its own steps. Read the instructions carefully. Be sure to check: 

• Who can apply 
• The due date 
• What you need to send 
• Whether the scholarship can be renewed 

Many applications ask for: 

• An essay 
• School records 
• Recommendation letters 
• A letter confirming your medical condition and treatment history  

People who know you well may be able to write a letter for you. This may include: 

• Teachers 
• Coaches 
• Employers 
• Counselors 

Some health-related scholarships may ask for medical information from your care team. Ask for this information early. This gives your care team time to meet your deadline.

Get help with scholarships

Finding scholarships and paying for school can feel like a lot. You do not have to do it alone. 

It may help to talk with your: 

• School counselor 
• School coordinator  
• College financial aid office 
• Health care team 
• Hospital social worker 
• Survivorship program 

These people can help you: 

• Learn about your options 
• Find scholarships that fit you 
• Fill out the forms 

Scholarship resources

Many groups post scholarship details on their websites. Rules and due dates may change. Visit each group’s website for the latest information. 

Scholarships for students affected by cancer or serious health conditions

Some groups offer scholarships and financial support to students affected by cancer. These include:

Scholarships for students with disabilities

Many groups offer scholarships to students with disabilities.  

Some scholarships are open to students with many kinds of disabilities. Others are for students with specific disabilities. 

General disability scholarship resources

Scholarships for students who are blind or have low vision

Scholarships for students who are deaf or hard of hearing

Scholarships for students with hydrocephalus

Scholarships for students with learning disabilities

General scholarship resources

Many groups and websites can help you search for scholarships. These include: 

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