15 Scholarships for Students with Disabilities in 2027 (Fully Funded and Financial Support Opportunities)

Students living with disabilities can face additional financial and educational challenges when pursuing higher education. However, several universities, government agencies, charitable organisations and scholarship foundations provide financial assistance to help students with disabilities access university education.

These opportunities may cover tuition fees, accommodation, learning materials, assistive technology, disability-related expenses and other educational costs.

In this guide, we have compiled 15 scholarships for students with disabilities in 2027. The list includes undergraduate and postgraduate opportunities, as well as scholarships for students with visual impairments, physical disabilities, hearing impairments, learning disabilities and other qualifying conditions.

Important: Not all the scholarships listed are open to international applicants. Some are restricted to citizens or residents of particular countries. We have identified these restrictions so applicants can check their eligibility before applying. Also, a 2027 scholarship does not automatically mean applications are currently open; where the sponsor has not published its 2027 application dates, this is clearly indicated.

Quick overview of the 15 disability scholarships

 

Funding amounts and eligibility are subject to the sponsor’s current regulations. Some awards are not available to international students.

15 Scholarships for Students with Disabilities in 2027 | Apply for University Funding

1. AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disability – USA

Study level: Undergraduate and postgraduate

The American Association on Health and Disability (AAHD) offers the Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disability to students with disabilities pursuing higher education in fields connected to health and disability.

The scholarship supports students whose education and future careers can contribute to improving the lives of people living with disabilities.

Scholarship benefits

• Awards are generally worth $1,000.

• Financial assistance towards university education.

• Recognition for students working in disability and health-related fields.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Have a disability recognised under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

• Be a US citizen or legal resident living in the United States.

• Be enrolled at an accredited university in the United States.

• Undergraduate applicants must have completed at least one year of university study and be in their sophomore year or above.

• Graduate applicants may study part-time or full-time.

• Be studying a relevant subject.

Preference is given to students studying public health, disability studies, health promotion, rehabilitation engineering, audiology, special education, disability research or related subjects.

Applicants with community service and volunteer experience are also encouraged.

Required documents

• Personal statement of no more than two pages.

• One academic recommendation letter.

• Official or unofficial university transcript.

• Disability verification from a qualified specialist.

Application deadline: The 2027 application period is open. Check the official application page for the submission deadline.

How to apply: Visit the official scholarship website and complete the online application.

Direct application link: AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship – Official Website

2. NSFAS Disability Bursary – South Africa

Study level: Undergraduate and other eligible higher education programmes

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial assistance to South African students who have disabilities and need support to access higher education.

The Disability Bursary Programme is designed to help students overcome financial and educational barriers. It also provides support for additional teaching and services that may be needed by students with disabilities.

Scholarship benefits

The bursary provides financial support for eligible university and TVET students. Disability-related assistance may include:

• Additional learning support.

• Assistive technology.

• Disability-related educational services.

• Other approved study-related support.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a student living with a disability.

• Be a South African citizen.

• Have a household income not exceeding R600,000 annually.

• Meet the academic requirements for NSFAS funding.

• Be studying or planning to study at an eligible public university or TVET college.

Required documents

Applicants should prepare:

• South African ID.

• Contact details, including an active email address and cellphone number.

• Household income information.

• Completed NSFAS consent form.

• NSFAS Disability Annexure.

• Medical report or other supporting disability documentation where required.

• Other supporting documents requested by NSFAS.

Application deadline: The 2027 application period ran from 18 September to 31 October 2026. It has closed as of 9 November 2026.

How to apply: Applications are submitted through the official myNSFAS platform. Applicants should monitor the website for the next application cycle.

Direct application link: NSFAS Disability Bursary – Official Website

3. Post-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities – India

Study level: Class XI to postgraduate level

The Government of India, through the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, offers the Post-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities.

The programme provides financial assistance to eligible Indian students with benchmark disabilities who want to continue their education after secondary school.

It supports students pursuing recognised educational qualifications, including undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

Scholarship benefits

The scheme provides:

• Reimbursement of admission and tuition fees up to ₹1.40 lakh annually, subject to actual fees.

• Miscellaneous compulsory fees up to ₹10,000 annually.

• Maintenance allowance of ₹1,200 per month for hostellers.

• Maintenance allowance of ₹650 per month for day scholars.

• Disability allowance of ₹4,000 annually for visual impairment and intellectual disabilities.

• Disability allowance of ₹2,000 annually for other disabilities.

• Book allowance of ₹1,500 annually.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Be Indian citizens.

• Have a benchmark disability of at least 40%.

• Possess a valid disability certificate from the competent authority.

• Have the required UDID registration or enrolment.

• Be enrolled in a recognised post-secondary educational programme up to Master’s degree level.

• Meet the applicable family income limit of ₹2.5 lakh annually.

The scholarship is not intended for students repeating the same educational level in a different subject, subject to the exceptions in the official guidelines.

Required documents

Prepare the following:

• Disability certificate.

• UDID details.

• Aadhaar details.

• Previous academic certificates and transcripts.

• Admission or bonafide student certificate.

• Family income certificate.

• Bank account details.

• Other documents requested through the National Scholarship Portal.

Application deadline: The 2027 academic-year application dates should be confirmed on the National Scholarship Portal. The 2026–27 portal lists 30 November 2026 as the application deadline for this scheme.

How to apply: Register or log in to the National Scholarship Portal and select the Post-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities.

Direct application link: National Scholarship Portal – Government of India

4. Top Class Education Scholarship for Students with Disabilities – India

Study level: Undergraduate and postgraduate

The Top Class Education Scholarship is another Indian government funding opportunity for students with disabilities.

The scholarship supports eligible students pursuing graduate and postgraduate qualifications at institutions recognised under the scheme.

It is particularly useful for students who want to study at selected institutions of higher education but require financial assistance.

Scholarship benefits

The scheme provides financial assistance towards:

• Tuition and admission fees.

• Maintenance expenses.

• Books and other academic materials.

• Disability-related educational support.

• Other approved study expenses.

The number of awards and financial limits depend on the official scheme guidelines.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Be Indian citizens.

• Have a benchmark disability of at least 40%.

• Hold a valid disability certificate.

• Meet the prescribed family income limit of ₹8 lakh annually.

• Have admission to an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate programme.

• Study at an institution included in the notified list of institutions under the scheme.

Not every university qualifies. Applicants should check the official list before applying.

Required documents

• Disability certificate.

• UDID registration details.

• Aadhaar details.

• Family income certificate.

• University admission letter.

• Academic transcripts.

• Bank account details.

• Other documents requested by the scholarship portal.

Application deadline: Check the National Scholarship Portal for the relevant 2027 application dates. The 2026–27 scheme listing gives 30 November 2026 as the student application deadline.

How to apply: Submit an online application through the National Scholarship Portal.

Direct application link: Government of India – National Scholarship Portal

5. National Overseas Scholarship for Students with Disabilities – India

Study level: Master’s and PhD

The National Overseas Scholarship is a government funding opportunity for eligible Indian students with benchmark disabilities who want to pursue postgraduate education outside India.

Unlike scholarships that only support study within the applicant’s home country, this programme is specifically designed to help eligible students obtain Master’s or doctoral qualifications at recognised foreign universities.

Scholarship benefits

The scheme provides financial assistance for approved overseas postgraduate studies.

The funding package is designed to support eligible educational and living expenses associated with studying abroad. Applicants should consult the current official guidelines for the applicable funding limits and allowances.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Be Indian citizens.

• Have a benchmark disability.

• Hold a valid disability certificate.

• Meet the required academic qualifications.

• Have at least 55% marks or an equivalent grade in the relevant Bachelor’s degree for Master’s applicants.

• Have at least 55% marks or an equivalent grade in the relevant Master’s degree for PhD applicants.

• Meet the prescribed family income limit of ₹8 lakh annually.

• Secure admission to an eligible foreign institution.

Students who have already received the scholarship are generally not eligible to receive it again.

Required documents

• Disability certificate.

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates.

• Foreign university admission letter.

• Proof of family income.

• Passport details.

• Research proposal where applicable.

• Other documents specified in the official application guidelines.

Application deadline: The 2027 application dates should be checked with the responsible government department.

How to apply: Monitor the Government of India’s disability scholarship programme and follow the published application instructions.

Direct application link: Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities – Official Scholarship Guidelines

6. National Fellowship for Persons with Disabilities – India

Study level: PhD and eligible research programmes

The National Fellowship for Persons with Disabilities is intended to support Indian students with benchmark disabilities who want to undertake advanced research at recognised Indian universities and institutions.

The fellowship provides financial assistance to help eligible researchers continue their academic development.

Scholarship benefits

Successful applicants receive fellowship funding and applicable allowances under the government’s current fellowship regulations.

The exact amount depends on the fellowship rules and the research category.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Be Indian citizens.

• Have a benchmark disability of at least 40%.

• Possess a valid disability certificate.

• Meet the relevant postgraduate academic requirements.

• Secure admission to an eligible research programme at a recognised Indian university or institution.

• Meet the current fellowship selection requirements.

Required documents

• Disability certificate.

• Postgraduate degree certificate.

• Academic transcripts.

• University admission or registration confirmation.

• Research proposal, where required.

• Identity documents.

• Other supporting documents specified by the fellowship authority.

Application deadline: Applicants should check the official government announcements for the 2027 selection cycle.

How to apply: Follow the application instructions published by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.

Direct application link: Official Government Scholarship Guidelines

7. CNIB Post-Secondary Scholarships and Bursaries – Canada

Study level: Diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, trades and continuing education

The Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) provides several scholarships and bursaries to support students who are blind, Deafblind or have low vision.

The programme is particularly helpful because it supports different educational pathways. Applicants do not necessarily have to pursue a traditional university degree to qualify.

Scholarship benefits

Examples of available awards include:

• Barney Danson Scholarship: $5,000.

• Ben McConnell Scholarship: $1,000.

• CNIB Scholarships: Multiple awards of $3,000.

• KPMG Scholarship: Eight awards of $2,500.

• Dr. John and Olive Pyper Scholarship: $4,000.

• Bernice and Robert Gilbert B.C. Scholarship: $1,000.

Other awards are available under the CNIB scholarship programme.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants generally need to:

• Be blind, Deafblind or have low vision.

• Be pursuing an eligible post-secondary educational programme.

• Be a Canadian citizen or have held landed immigrant status for at least one year before applying.

• Demonstrate educational commitment and potential.

Some individual awards have additional geographical, academic or financial requirements.

Required documents

Applicants should prepare:

• Completed scholarship application.

• Proof of disability or visual impairment.

• Academic transcripts.

• Proof of enrolment or university acceptance.

• Reference letters.

• Personal statement or essay.

• Information about other financial support.

Application deadline: Applications for the 2027/28 school year are expected to open in spring 2027.

How to apply: Complete the CNIB post-secondary scholarship application. One application can provide consideration for multiple awards for which the applicant qualifies.

Direct application link: CNIB Post-Secondary Scholarships and Bursaries – Official Website

8. CNIB Master’s Scholarships – Canada

Study level: Master’s and postgraduate education

CNIB also provides Master’s scholarships to encourage people who are blind, Deafblind or have low vision to pursue postgraduate education.

These awards are designed for students who want to advance their education and professional careers through Master’s-level study.

Scholarship benefits

Financial assistance is available through the CNIB postgraduate scholarship programme. The amount depends on the particular award and the funding available for the application year.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants should:

• Be blind, Deafblind or have low vision.

• Be pursuing or preparing to pursue a Master’s degree.

• Meet the Canadian citizenship or permanent resident requirements.

• Demonstrate academic commitment and a clear educational goal.

The current award-specific rules should be checked before applying.

Required documents

Applicants should prepare:

• Proof of visual impairment.

• University admission letter or enrolment confirmation.

• Academic transcripts.

• Personal statement.

• Reference letters.

• Details of other funding sources.

Application deadline: The 2027/28 CNIB scholarship application period is expected to open in spring 2027.

How to apply: Visit the CNIB scholarships page and select the Master’s Scholarships application information.

Direct application link: CNIB Scholarships and Awards – Official Website

9. Pong, Tams and Ko Scholarship – New Zealand

Study level: Undergraduate

The Pong, Tams and Ko Scholarship is offered through the University of Auckland to support students experiencing sensory, physical, medical or learning difficulties and disabilities.

The scholarship aims to help students overcome financial barriers while completing their undergraduate education.

Scholarship benefits

• Financial award of up to NZ$8,000.

• Support towards educational expenses.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Be enrolled in an undergraduate degree at the University of Auckland.

• Have a sensory, physical, medical or learning disability or difficulty.

• Meet the scholarship’s academic and other award conditions.

Both domestic and international students are listed as eligible categories.

Required documents

• University admission or enrolment information.

• Academic transcripts.

• Evidence of disability or medical circumstances.

• Supporting information requested in the application.

Application deadline: Applications normally close in February each year. Check the 2027 application notice for the exact date.

How to apply: Visit the University of Auckland scholarship page and follow the application instructions.

Direct application link: Pong, Tams and Ko Scholarship – University of Auckland

10. June Opie Fellowship – New Zealand

Study level: Postgraduate

The June Opie Fellowship provides financial assistance to students with severe disabilities who want to undertake postgraduate studies.

It is an opportunity for eligible students from selected countries to continue their education and develop their professional and academic careers.

Scholarship benefits

• Two fellowships are available.

• Each fellowship is worth up to NZ$20,000.

• Financial assistance towards postgraduate education.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Have a severe disability.

• Be citizens or permanent residents of Australia, Canada or New Zealand.

• Be planning to undertake postgraduate study.

• Meet the fellowship’s additional selection requirements.

This fellowship is not open to applicants from every country.

Required documents

Applicants should prepare:

• Proof of citizenship or permanent residence.

• Disability documentation.

• Academic transcripts.

• Evidence of postgraduate admission or intended study.

• Personal statement.

• Other documents requested by the University of Auckland.

Application deadline: Check the official fellowship portal for the 2027 application opening and closing dates.

How to apply: Applicants who are not currently University of Auckland students may need to register for an account and request access to the application system.

Direct application link: June Opie Fellowship – University of Auckland

11. Oppenheim Trust for Tertiary Education of the Visually Impaired – New Zealand

Study level: Tertiary education

The Oppenheim Trust provides financial assistance to people who are blind or have low vision and want to pursue tertiary education.

The funding is intended to help eligible students manage course fees while continuing their education.

Scholarship benefits

• Financial assistance specifically towards course fees.

• Support for eligible students entering or continuing tertiary education.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Be clients of Blind Low Vision NZ.

• Be blind or have low vision.

• Be undertaking or preparing to enter tertiary education.

• Meet the Trust’s funding requirements.

Required documents

Applicants should prepare:

• Proof of registration or client status with Blind Low Vision NZ.

• Evidence of tertiary enrolment or admission.

• Course-fee information.

• Supporting financial and personal information requested by the Trust.

Application deadline: Applications normally close in January each year. Successful applicants are usually notified in mid-February.

How to apply: Contact Blind Low Vision NZ for the application process and current funding requirements.

Direct application link: Blind Low Vision NZ – Official Website

12. Sir Arthur Pearson Memorial Fund – New Zealand

Study level: Personal development, rehabilitation and education-related support

The Sir Arthur Pearson Memorial Fund provides assistance to people affected by blindness.

The fund was established to support people who are blind and help them manage additional financial challenges associated with visual impairment.

It is worth considering for students who need assistance with disability-related costs while pursuing personal development or education.

Scholarship benefits

The fund may provide financial assistance towards:

• Additional costs associated with blindness.

• Rehabilitation and habilitation.

• Personal development.

• Other eligible disability-related needs.

The fund does not cover ordinary daily living or general welfare expenses.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants should:

• Meet the fund’s requirements for people affected by blindness.

• Demonstrate eligible additional financial needs.

• Provide supporting information about the assistance requested.

Required documents

Contact the fund to confirm its current application requirements. Applicants should be prepared to provide evidence of visual impairment and details of the financial assistance needed.

Application deadline: Applications can be made throughout the year.

How to apply: Contact Blind Low Vision NZ to obtain information about the fund and its application procedure.

Direct application link: Blind Low Vision NZ – Official Website

13. Deaf Education Scholarship – New Zealand

Study level: Tertiary education

The National Foundation for Deaf and Hard of Hearing offers the Deaf Education Scholarship to support people who are Deaf or hard of hearing with their tertiary education.

The scholarship recognises that students with hearing disabilities may require additional educational resources and services to complete their studies successfully.

Scholarship benefits

The scholarship can provide assistance towards:

• Course fees.

• Educational books.

• Sign language interpreters.

• Note-taking services.

• Additional tuition.

• Other approved educational expenses.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Be Deaf or hard of hearing.

• Be undertaking or planning tertiary education.

• Meet the scholarship’s application and selection conditions.

There is no age limit for this scholarship.

Required documents

Applicants should prepare:

• Proof of hearing disability.

• Evidence of tertiary enrolment or admission.

• Academic records, where requested.

• A statement explaining their educational plans.

• Details of the support required.

Application deadline: Applications normally open from 1 February to 31 March each year. Applicants should confirm the 2027 dates with the foundation.

How to apply: Visit the National Foundation for Deaf and Hard of Hearing website and follow its education scholarship application instructions.

Direct application link: Deaf Education Scholarship – NFDHH

14. Dulcie Bowman Memorial Scholarship – New Zealand

Study level: Undergraduate and postgraduate

The Dulcie Bowman Memorial Scholarship supports women students with hearing disabilities who are studying at the University of Auckland.

The scholarship provides financial assistance to help eligible women continue their education and achieve their academic goals.

Scholarship benefits

• Two scholarships are available.

• Each award is worth NZ$4,500.

• Financial support for eligible undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Be women students.

• Have a hearing disability.

• Be enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate programme at the University of Auckland.

• Meet the scholarship’s other selection requirements.

Required documents

Applicants should prepare:

• Evidence of hearing disability.

• University enrolment confirmation.

• Academic transcripts.

• Other supporting documents requested by the university.

Application deadline: Applications normally close in January each year. Confirm the 2027 deadline with the University of Auckland.

How to apply: Visit the University of Auckland’s disability scholarship information page and follow the relevant scholarship application instructions.

Direct application link: University of Auckland – Scholarships for Students with Disabilities

15. John and Betty Rose Scholarship – New Zealand

Study level: Tertiary education

The John and Betty Rose Scholarship is provided by Deaf Children New Zealand to help Deaf students access higher education.

The award offers financial assistance to students who want to pursue tertiary qualifications and develop their academic and professional careers.

Scholarship benefits

• Two scholarships are offered annually.

• Each scholarship provides NZ$1,000 towards tertiary fees.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants should:

• Meet the scholarship’s requirements for Deaf students.

• Be undertaking or planning tertiary education.

• Meet the award’s application and selection conditions.

Required documents

Applicants should prepare:

• Evidence of hearing disability.

• Proof of tertiary admission or enrolment.

• Academic records, where required.

• Supporting information requested by Deaf Children New Zealand.

Application deadline: Applications normally close in January each year. Confirm the 2027 deadline directly with the organisation.

How to apply: Visit Deaf Children New Zealand’s official website for application information.

Direct application link: Deaf Children New Zealand – Official Website

Documents students with disabilities should prepare before applying

Although each scholarship has different requirements, applicants should prepare some common documents before starting their applications.

1. Disability certificate or medical report: This confirms the applicant’s disability and may need to be issued by a recognised medical professional or government authority.

2. Academic transcripts: Previous school or university results may be required to demonstrate academic performance.

3. Admission letter: Applicants may need an admission letter or proof of enrolment from their chosen university.

4. Personal statement: Some scholarship providers request an essay explaining the applicant’s educational goals, personal experiences and reasons for seeking financial assistance.

5. Recommendation letters: Academic references may be required to support the application.

6. Proof of financial need: Income statements or financial documents may be requested for need-based scholarships.

7. Identification documents: A national identity card, passport or other recognised identification may be required.

8. Bank account information: Some scholarships pay successful applicants directly into their bank accounts.

Applicants should always check the sponsor’s document checklist because submitting incomplete applications can lead to rejection.

FAQs

1. Can international students apply for scholarships for students with disabilities?

Yes. Some scholarships accept international students, while others are restricted to citizens or permanent residents of particular countries. For example, the Pong, Tams and Ko Scholarship at the University of Auckland lists domestic and international students as eligible categories.

2. Can students with visual impairments apply for scholarships?

Yes. There are scholarships specifically designed for blind students and people with low vision. Examples include the CNIB scholarships in Canada and the Oppenheim Trust in New Zealand.

3. Are there fully funded scholarships for students with disabilities in 2027?

Some government disability scholarship programmes provide substantial financial support, including tuition and living allowances. India’s National Overseas Scholarship is one programme worth investigating for eligible students pursuing Master’s or PhD studies abroad. Applicants should check the current funding limits and conditions before describing any award as fully funded.

4. Can students with hearing impairments apply for scholarships?

Yes. Examples include the Deaf Education Scholarship and Dulcie Bowman Memorial Scholarship in New Zealand.

5. What disability qualifies for a scholarship?

Eligibility depends on the individual scholarship. Some programmes accept physical, sensory, intellectual and learning disabilities, while others are designed specifically for blindness, low vision or hearing impairments.

6. Can students with disabilities apply for scholarships without excellent grades?

Some disability scholarships consider financial need, personal achievements, community participation and the challenges applicants have overcome, rather than relying entirely on academic performance. However, applicants must still meet the academic requirements of their chosen scholarship.

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