Grants for the Blind and Visually Impaired

General Support

Financial assistance can be a lifeline for blind and visually impaired individuals seeking to access education, training and essential living resources. There are numerous grants available that provide the necessary support to help blind and visually impaired individuals live more independent and fulfilling lives. Below are some of the top grants and funding opportunities specifically designed for this community.

1. National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Scholarship Program

This program offers an annual scholarship program for blind and visually impaired students. Each year, they award 30 scholarships to students pursuing undergraduate, graduate and vocational studies. The amount ranges from $3,000 to $12,000 depending on the student’s needs and academic progress.

Eligibility and Application

Applicants must be legally blind in both eyes.
The applicant must be pursuing full-time post-secondary education at an accredited institution.
Selection is based on academic performance, community involvement and future goals.

Learn more at https://medschool.vanderbilt.edu/career-development/2024/05/08/national-federation-of-the-blind-nfb-scholarships-for-blind-students/.

2. American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) Scholarships

The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) provides several scholarships specifically targeted at students who are blind or visually impaired. The scholarships support students pursuing degrees in fields such as literature, music and rehabilitation.

How to Apply?

Applicants must provide proof of visual impairment.
Scholarships are available to undergraduate and graduate students.
Specific scholarships may require students to pursue certain fields of study, such as technology or rehabilitation.

For further details, visit https://www.afb.org/about-afb.

3. The Fred Scheigert Scholarship Program

Administered by the Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI), the Fred Scheigert Scholarship Program awards three $3,000 scholarships annually to students with low vision. These scholarships aim to support students as they pursue their educational and career goals.

Requirements and Eligibility

Students must have low vision (visual acuity between 20/70 and 20/200).
The scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in full-time education.
Applicants are required to submit proof of low vision along with transcripts and references.

For more information, visit https://cclvi.info/.

4. The Ethel Louise Armstrong Foundation Scholarship

The Ethel Louise Armstrong Foundation provides scholarships for women with disabilities, including visual impairments. These scholarships are awarded to women pursuing graduate degrees in various fields, from science to the arts.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must be female students with a documented disability.
Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate program at an accredited university.
Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and leadership potential.

To explore this program, visit www.ela.org.

5. The Association for the Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER) Scholarship

AER offers a scholarship program to support students who are blind or visually impaired, particularly those pursuing careers in the field of rehabilitation and education for the blind.

Application Process

Applicants must be legally blind or visually impaired and pursuing a degree in education or rehabilitation services.
Students must demonstrate academic achievement and a commitment to improving services for the blind and visually impaired community.

For more information, visit https://www.aerbvi.org/about-aer.

6. The Lighthouse Guild Scholarship Program

The Lighthouse Guild provides merit-based scholarships to students who are legally blind. These scholarships are awarded annually to high-achieving students pursuing higher education.

Scholarship Eligibility

Applicants must be legally blind and demonstrate academic excellence.
Scholarships are available to high school seniors planning to attend a college or university.
The program emphasizes leadership and community involvement as key selection criteria.

Learn more at https://www.washington.edu/doit/guildscholar-award-0.

7. The Visionary Scholarship Program by The American Council of the Blind (ACB)

The American Council of the Blind (ACB) offers a variety of scholarships for blind and visually impaired students through their Visionary Scholarship Program. These scholarships are awarded to students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, and vocational studies across a range of disciplines.

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must be legally blind and enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution.
Scholarships are available for students in the United States, including those attending vocational schools or pursuing specialized training programs.
Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership and community involvement.

For more information, visit www.acb.org.

8. The Incight Scholarship Program

The Incight Scholarship Program is designed for students with disabilities, including those who are blind or visually impaired. The scholarship provides financial assistance to disabled students pursuing higher education, aiming to empower them to succeed academically and professionally.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must have a documented disability, including blindness or visual impairment.
The scholarship is available to students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees at an accredited institution.
Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, and community service.

Learn more at www.incight.org.

9. The Lavelle Fund for the Blind

The Lavelle Fund for the Blind supports students with visual impairments by providing scholarships and grants. The fund assists with educational costs and works closely with schools and institutions to ensure that blind students receive the support they need.

Program Eligibility

The Lavelle Fund primarily supports students attending institutions in the New York metropolitan area.
Applicants must have a documented visual impairment and demonstrate financial need.
Scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate students.

To learn more, visit https://lavellefund.org/mission/.

10. The Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI) Scholarship

CCLVI offers an annual scholarship program aimed at supporting visually impaired students who are pursuing higher education. The scholarships are designed to assist students with tuition and other college-related expenses.

Requirements and Criteria

Applicants must have low vision and be enrolled full-time in an accredited post-secondary institution.
Applicants need to provide proof of low vision, along with academic transcripts and references.
Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership and community involvement.

For more details, visit www.cclvi.info.

Conclusion

Grants and scholarships for blind and visually impaired individuals offer crucial support in various areas, from education to rehabilitation. In addition to these national programs, be sure to explore state-specific assistance and financial assistance options available to ensure you’re accessing all possible resources. By taking advantage of these funding opportunities, blind and visually impaired students can pursue higher education, access specialized resources and lead more independent lives. Apply to the programs that align with your needs and goals to benefit from these life-changing resources fully.