Comprehensive Guide to Scholarships for Students with Low Vision

For students with low vision, the pursuit of higher education can be significantly enhanced with the aid of scholarships. These scholarships not only alleviate financial burdens but also recognize the unique challenges and accomplishments of visually impaired students. This article provides an extensive overview of various scholarship opportunities available to students with low vision, offering a pathway to achieving their academic aspirations.

Introduction to Scholarships for Students with Visual Impairments

Major progress has been made and huge steps have been taken in the last few decades to make the world as easy to navigate as possible to the visually impaired. The collegiate world has also taken significant steps in opening their doors to students with a sight-related disability. The visually impaired also have a leg-up at affording their college career if they choose to go the route of post-secondary education. Many scholarships are in place to provide a supporting hand to the visually impaired.

National Organizations Offering Scholarships

Several national organizations are dedicated to providing financial assistance to students with visual impairments. These organizations offer a range of scholarships with varying eligibility criteria and award amounts.

National Federation of the Blind (NFB)

The NFB has the largest scholarship program for legally blind post-secondary students in the country. The Federation grants 30 scholarships annually (ranging from $3,000 to $12,000) to legally blind persons in higher education from college freshmen to doctoral candidates. Federation scholarship winners also win a trip to the organization’s annual convention and the opportunity to develop mentoring relationships with the nation’s most dynamic leaders of the blind community. Winning a Federation scholarship is a lifetime distinction because winners must compete in a pool of over 600 applicants.

All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. Must be pursuing or planning to pursue a full-time, post-secondary course of study in a degree program at a United States institution in the fall of the year of application.

The National Federation of the Blind gives 30 college scholarships to the nation's top blind students every year during their annual convention. These awards include the $12,000 Kenneth Jernigan Scholarship; 1 Scholarship for $10,000; 2 Scholarships for $7,000 each; 4 Scholarships for $5,000 each; and 22 Scholarships for $3,000 each. Each winner will be brought to the NFB annual convention next July at Federation expense and will receive other useful gifts. When a student applies for a national scholarship, his or her application is also automatically sent to the NFB New Jersey Affiliate state to be entered in the state competition. It is also possible to apply only for a state scholarship.

American Council of the Blind (ACB)

Legally blind, full-time students at the post-secondary level (in both academic and vocational programs) may be able to receive funds from the more than twenty scholarships offered by the American Council of the Blind (ACB). Most of the ACB scholarships range from between $1000 to $3000 in amount. To be eligible, applicants must be legally blind in both eyes and have achieved a GPA of 3.3 or higher, along with demonstrating involvement in their community or school. In addition, the ACB provides one scholarship specifically to part-time students who are also employed full-time: the John Hebner Memorial Scholarship.

American Council of the Blind will present more than two dozen scholarships and awards to outstanding blind students . All legally blind, full-time students admitted to academic and vocational training programs at the post-secondary level are encouraged to apply for one of these scholarships. Part-time students who are working full-time are also invited to apply for the John Hebner Memorial Scholarship. A cumulative grade point average of 3.3 is generally required, but extenuating circumstances may be considered for certain scholarships. Applicants must be legally blind in both eyes.

American Foundation for the Blind (AFB)

Helen Keller was a driving force behind the American Foundation for the Blind, which offers around eleven annual scholarships ranging from $500.00 - $1,500.00. Interested individuals may use a single application form to apply for one or more scholarships. One AFB award is the Rudolph Dillman Memorial Scholarship. This award is $2,500 given out to four students who are doing either their undergraduate or graduate studies in rehabilitation or a subject related to education for those with disabilities. Another is the Gladys C. Anderson Memorial Scholarship, which is $1,000 given to a female student studying classical or religious music. In addition to a completed scholarship application form, proof of US citizenship and legal blindness is required. Also required is a personal essay outlining goals, work experience, how the student proposes to use the funds, etc.

The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), in partnership with the American Council of the Blind (ACB), is excited to provide financial support each year to students who are blind or have low vision. AFB is thankful for the generous support of our donors over the years who have helped build out AFB’s endowment fund for scholarships.

Read also: Camp Scholarships Guide

Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER)

The Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired offers the Ferrell Scholarship to students who are legally blind and are preparing for a career in the education or rehabilitation of blind or visually impaired children or adults. The AER sponsors the Ferrell Scholarship, which is given in the amount of $750 to two students who are legally blind and also studying in a field in which they will eventually pursue education or assistance for the blind. Students must be studying at the post-secondary level and included proof of their vision status along with their completed application. AER proudly offers educational scholarships for individuals continuing their education in the field of providing services to the blind and visually impaired.

AER ORIENTATION AND MOBILITY DIVISIONDONALD BLASCH SCHOLARSHIP AWARD AER’s O&M Division presents an annual scholarship competition for students enrolled in AER accredited O&M programs. VIOMPSP provides scholarships to students pursuing a degree or certificate in visual impairment or orientation and mobility.

Blinded Veterans Association

The Blinded Veterans Association offers scholarships to dependent children and spouses of veterans of the United States Armed Forces who are blind (either service or nonservice connected.) Veterans need not be members of the Blinded Veterans Association.

Christian Record Services

The Christian Record Services offers scholarships in all areas of study to undergraduate students who are legally blind.

Lighthouse Guild

The Lighthouse Guild offers scholarships to college-bound high school seniors who are legally blind. Each year, we offer up to 20 scholarships for outstanding high school students who are legally blind from across the United States. We also provide an annual scholarship to at least one qualifying graduate student. If you have a record of strong academic accomplishment and merit, apply for a Lighthouse Guild scholarship and take another step toward the advanced education you deserve. As of 2023, among each year’s undergraduate and graduate student scholarship recipients, one student will be awarded the Dr. Neil S. Patel Memorial Scholarship for embodying Dr.

Read also: Benefits of NSHSS Scholarships

The Guildscholar Program awards scholarships of $15,000.00 each to a maximum of 16 high-school students each year. The program is open to legally blind US citizens who have earned high marks in their academic programs. Academic transcripts, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation are to be submitted with a completed application form for review by the selection committee.

Learning Ally

Learning Ally offers the Mary P. Oenslager Scholastic Achievement Awards (SAA) for college seniors and graduate students who are blind or visually impaired and the Marion Huber Learning Through Listening (LTL) Awards for high school seniors who are learning disabled.

Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI)

The Council of Citizens with Low Vision (CCLVI) accepts applications for their Scholarship Program. The Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI) will award three scholarships in the amount of $3,000 each to entering freshmen, undergraduate and graduate college students who are visually impaired, maintain a strong GPA and are involved in their school/local community.

Regional and State-Specific Scholarships

In addition to national scholarships, students should explore regional and state-specific opportunities that may be available.

Lavelle Fund for the Blind

The Lavelle Fund for the Blind offers the Brother James P. residents who are legally blind, financially needy, and attending any of 11 selected private colleges and universities in New York State and Northeastern New Jersey. offers awards to college bound high school seniors, and undergraduate and graduate students who are legally blind. Applicants must be citizens, and reside and attend school in one of these states: NY, NJ, CT, PA, and New England States. college bound high school students who are legally blind .

Georgia Council of the Blind

Funding of up to $1,000.00 is offered by the Georgia Council of the Blind to students who are legally blind or have parents who are legally blind. Students must be financially dependent to qualify. Georgia residents who wish to attend a vocational school, college or university (including Master’s or Doctoral program) in the field of study of their choice are eligible to apply. The scholarships are for one year; students can reapply for funding under this program for subsequent school years. All applicants are required to provide a current financial statement, official transcripts, a letter or statement verifying the applicant’s or applicant’s parents’ legal blindness, and two letters of recommendation. A written statement setting out the applicant’s academic goals and a list of extracurricular activities the applicant is involved in are to be submitted.

University-Specific Scholarships

Many universities offer scholarships specifically for students with disabilities, including those with low vision.

George Mason University

George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia offers the Barry and Velma Berkey Scholarship. This generous award goes to a full-time student in the college who is visually impaired and is studying in a range of academic disciplines, including teaching, writing, nursing, and music. The George Mason Disability Resource Center is the financial backer behind this award.

American University

This university, located in the nation’s capital, is home to the Barbara Jackman Zuckert Scholarship for Blind Part-time Students. Designed especially for students who are print-disabled and not attending the university full-time, this award is given to a student who strongly demonstrates financial need, as well as academic competence and motivation.

Fordham University Law School

Fordham University Law School offers the Amy Reiss Endowed Scholarship to students who are physically disabled and are interested in pursuing a J.D. degree from Fordham Law School.

Western Michigan University

For many years, the Department of Blindness and Low Vision Studies at Western Michigan University has received federal and other grants to provide student financial support. Several scholarships and graduate assistantships are also available through other sources. Some type of financial support is available at most times to students. Most financial support requires students to become employed after graduation in vision rehabilitation for two years for every year that support is provided. A limited number of graduate assistantships are available. Prospective students should contact program coordinators to verify the support available under specific circumstances.

Additional Scholarship Opportunities

Beyond the scholarships specifically for visually impaired students, it's beneficial to explore other opportunities that support students with disabilities in general.

Disability Support Services Scholarship Directory

Welcome to the scholarship directory at Disability Support Services. are external scholarship opportunities for students with disabilities.

Dirk Derrick Car & Truck Accident Injury Scholarship

The Dirk Derrick Car & Truck Accident Injury Scholarship is an award for any current or soon-to-be undergrad who has had his or her life altered due to an injury from a car or truck accident, be it their own injury, that of a loved one, or an influential individual. Students applying must submit an essay where you explain, present, inspire, or otherwise convince us as to why you deserve to win this scholarship. Keep submissions to 5 paragraphs and 600 words maximum.

Boomer Esiason Foundation Scholarship Program

donates $1000 to the Boomer Esiason Foundation Scholarship Program. graduate students with Cystic Fibrosis.

Hydrocephalus Association Scholarship Program

Applicants must be between 17-30 years of age and have hydrocephalus.

Hemophilia Federation of America Scholarship Program

Undergraduates with Hemophilia are encouraged to apply.

National Spina Bifida Association Scholarship Program

Applicant must have Spina Bifida.

The Michael Yasick ADHD Scholarship

For individuals with autism in any field of study. disorder, or schizoaffective disorder are encouraged to apply.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Requirements

Each scholarship program has specific eligibility criteria and application requirements. Common requirements include:

Proof of Legal Blindness: A letter or certificate confirming the diagnosis of blindness, often from a medical professional.
Academic Transcripts: High school or college transcripts demonstrating a strong GPA.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters attesting to the applicant's academic skills and personal qualities.
Personal Essay: A written statement outlining the applicant’s academic goals, work experience, and how the funds will be used.
Financial Statement: A current financial statement demonstrating financial need may be required.
U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency: Many scholarships require applicants to be U.S. citizens or legal residents.
Full-Time Enrollment: Many scholarships require students to be pursuing or planning to pursue a full-time, post-secondary course of study in a degree program.

Tips for Finding and Applying for Scholarships

Start Early: Begin your scholarship search well in advance of college application deadlines.
Utilize Online Resources: Explore online databases and guides to identify potential scholarship opportunities. The American Foundation for the Blind will be a great resource to you in your hunt for scholarships. They have a comprehensive database listing of many other scholarships that are specific to students with a disability. This includes scholarships for students with general disabilities, such as those from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation.
Contact Disability Services: Reach out to disability services offices at colleges and universities for information on school-specific scholarships.
Craft a Compelling Essay: Highlight your personal journey, academic achievements, and future aspirations in your essay.
Seek Recommendations: Request letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors who know you well.
Meet Deadlines: Pay close attention to application deadlines and submit all required materials on time.

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities

Due to my vision loss, some of the challenges I face are in everyday activities and tasks. I don’t know what it’s like to see. I don’t know what I am missing.

We believe that nothing should stop people who are blind or visually impaired from pursuing higher education-especially the cost.

"The NFB didn’t just change my life-it gave me the confidence to shape my own future. Before, I saw blindness as something to manage. Now, I see it as an identity I can fully embrace. The NFB has shown me that blindness is not a barrier but a different way of experiencing the world.

Additional Resources

Online Guide to Financial Aid for Students with Disabilities: Has an online guide to financial aid for students with disabilities. The guide includes a curated list of more than 85 disability-specific scholarships, strategies for utilizing state and local financial aid resources, and an overview of loan forgiveness and reduction options.
"An Introduction to College Scholarships”: Provides information about applying for scholarships and practice entrance tests.

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