Financial Aid Tips for Disabled Individuals

Students who are disabled may qualify for certain scholarships and grants. The following financial aid tips can help disabled individuals get the funds they need to pay for their studies.

Grants
Federal and state grants are available to all students who demonstrate financial need. Your eligibility for some grants may be affected if you are unable to enroll at least half-time because of a disability. Disabled students may also be eligible for funding from organizations such as the National Federation for the Blind, Jewish Guild for the Blind, or National Association of the Deaf.

Scholarship Search
Although some scholarships are targeted to those with special needs, students should also apply for other more general awards. Investigate any scholarships offered by your employer or parents' employers, religious groups, or local chamber of commerce. Community organizations such as the Lions Clubs International, Soroptimists, Girl Scouts, or Rotary International also offer scholarships.

Other organizations that offer special scholarships for the disabled are the Foundation for Science and Disability, the Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, 1800wheelchair.com, the Spina Bifida Association of America, and the National Center for Learning Disabilities.

Student Loans
Federal and private student loans are also available to disabled students. Federal programs include the Stafford, Perkins, and PLUS loans. PLUS loans can be borrowed by parents or graduate and professional students. Private student loans generally require a credit check and have higher interest rates than federal loans. If you don't have much of a credit history you may benefit from having a cosigner with a good credit score when you apply for a private loan.

It's important to look into as many types of financial aid as possible. Along with loans, grants, and scholarships, you may be awarded work-study award. Use the search tool on College Aid to find resources. A variety of books and websites on financial aid offer tips for disabled individuals.

About the Author
Francine L. Huff is a freelance journalist and the author of The 25-Day Financial Makeover: A Practical Guide for Women. She has appeared on a variety of TV and radio shows.