Best 10 Scholarships for Disabled Students to Study Abroad

Studying abroad is a transformative experience for many students, offering opportunities to gain global perspectives, learn from diverse cultures, and enhance academic qualifications.

However, the cost of international education can be a major hurdle, especially for students with disabilities who may have additional expenses related to their needs.

Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships for students with disabilities designed to support their ambitions. Here’s a detailed guide to the best 10 scholarships for disabled students looking to study abroad.

1. Google Lime Scholarship

The Google Lime Scholarship is aimed at students with disabilities pursuing degrees in computer science, engineering, or related technical fields. Google, in partnership with the Lime Connect organization, provides financial aid to help students thrive in the tech industry. Recipients are also invited to exclusive networking opportunities and the Google Scholars’ Retreat.

  • Eligibility: Undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D. students with disabilities
  • Award Amount: Up to $10,000 for US students and $5,000 for Canadian students

2. Ford Foundation Fellowship Program

The Ford Foundation Fellowship Program supports graduate students with disabilities, especially those pursuing studies in social sciences, humanities, and STEM fields. This fellowship is dedicated to increasing diversity in education and aims to empower underrepresented students, including those with disabilities.

  • Eligibility: Graduate students pursuing master’s or Ph.D. programs
  • Award Amount: Varies depending on academic level and program

3. AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disability

For students interested in health-related fields, the AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship is an excellent option. This scholarship, offered by the American Association on Health and Disability, helps students who are passionate about improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

  • Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students with disabilities in health-related programs
  • Award Amount: $1,000 per recipient

4. Snowdon Trust Grants

The Snowdon Trust offers grants to students with physical or sensory disabilities who are pursuing higher education. These grants are designed to help cover additional costs related to a student’s disability, such as special equipment, personal assistants, or travel costs.

  • Eligibility: Disabled students pursuing further education in the UK or abroad
  • Award Amount: Varies based on individual needs

5. The Anne Ford and Allegra Ford Scholarship

For high school seniors with learning disabilities or ADHD, the Anne Ford and Allegra Ford Scholarship offers financial support as they transition to higher education. While primarily focused on students attending US colleges, these scholarships can also help fund study-abroad programs.

  • Eligibility: High school seniors with documented learning disabilities or ADHD
  • Award Amount: $10,000 over four years for the Anne Ford Scholarship; $2,500 for the Allegra Ford Scholarship

6. Leonard Cheshire Disability Scholarship

The Leonard Cheshire Disability Scholarship is available for students with disabilities pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies both in the UK and abroad. This scholarship is intended to assist with educational expenses and provide disabled students with the opportunity to access higher education on an international scale.

  • Eligibility: Disabled students seeking higher education opportunities
  • Award Amount: Varies depending on individual needs and academic goals

7. Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Scholarships

Offered by Mobility International USA (MIUSA), the Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Scholarships are designed to support US students with disabilities who wish to study abroad. These scholarships cover additional expenses that students may face due to their disabilities and aim to ensure that they have an equal opportunity to experience international education.

  • Eligibility: Disabled students enrolled in US-based colleges and universities
  • Award Amount: Varies depending on the program and needs of the applicant

8. AIFS Abroad Scholarships for Students with Disabilities

The AIFS Abroad Scholarships offer financial assistance to students with disabilities participating in study-abroad programs. The scholarship ensures that students, regardless of their physical or sensory challenges, have the opportunity to explore educational opportunities abroad.

  • Eligibility: Disabled students enrolled in AIFS study-abroad programs
  • Award Amount: Up to $5,000 depending on the program

9. The Rick Hansen Foundation Scholarship

The Rick Hansen Foundation Scholarship supports students with disabilities who have shown leadership in their communities and are looking to pursue higher education. While primarily focused on Canadian students, the scholarship can be used for studies abroad, providing financial aid to cover tuition and related costs.

  • Eligibility: Disabled students who demonstrate leadership and community involvement
  • Award Amount: $1,000 to $5,000 depending on merit and need

10. The International Students with Disabilities Scholarship (ISDS)

The International Students with Disabilities Scholarship (ISDS) offers financial aid to students with disabilities pursuing higher education abroad. This scholarship helps cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other necessary expenses, ensuring that disabled students can access quality education in a foreign country.

  • Eligibility: Disabled students applying to undergraduate or graduate programs abroad
  • Award Amount: Varies based on academic performance and financial need

Conclusion

Pursuing an education abroad is an exciting journey, and for students with disabilities, it can be even more empowering. These scholarships for students with disabilities are designed to reduce the financial barriers and ensure that all students have equal access to global educational opportunities. Whether you’re interested in technology, health, social sciences, or any other field, there is likely a scholarship that fits your academic goals and needs. Start by researching these programs and applying early to increase your chances of securing financial support for your study-abroad adventure.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *