Special Education teaching requires a unique set of skills and highly specialized training beyond what traditional educators receive. As a result, tuition may be higher for those wanting to pursue a major in Special Education (or a related area of study leading to a job in that field).
The demand for trained Special Education K-12 teachers remains strong, and there are many organizations out there offering scholarships to help people get involved. Here’s a list of the seven best scholarships for students ready to make a difference in the lives of students facing learning, mental, or physical disabilities!
Tips When Applying To Special Education Scholarships
Before we jump into the list, let’s review a few quick tips to help you succeed in your Special Education scholarship applications!
Be ready
Being a teacher is difficult, and being a Special Education teacher is even more of a challenge. Think hard about your goals and your ability to meet the extra demands of a Special Education academic program and the career that comes after.
Be compelling
Once you’re sure of your motivations and abilities, now it’s time to explain those clearly and compellingly in your scholarship application. Let your sincere feelings shine through. Persuade readers that you’re ready and able to take on this demanding major!
Be qualified
Read scholarship eligibility requirements closely to ensure you’re fully qualified to apply. That includes being able to meet the application deadline!
7 Best Scholarships For Students Majoring In Special Education
Based in New York, The Arc is an organization dedicated to helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc’s annual Joseph T. Weingold Scholarship offers $3,000 to two students “enrolled in a New York State degree program, leading to a special education certification.”
Offered by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, the Little Red Schoolhouse Scholarship provides local scholarships up to $3,000 to students who are residents of Franklin, Hampshire, or Hampden counties. Students must be majoring in education, preferably in early childhood, elementary, or special education.
The Access to Better Learning and Education (ABLE) Grant Program provides tuition assistance to Florida undergraduate students enrolled in degree programs at eligible private Florida colleges or universities. The student will meet the application procedures established by the participating institution. Applications may be obtained at the financial aid offices of eligible private Florida colleges and universities. Kindly visit the scholarship site for more details.
American Legion Auxiliary Department of Wisconsin Child Welfare Scholarships are $1,000 awards given to grad students studying special education. Applicants must be Wisconsin residents (or members of the Wisconsin American Legion Family) and be related to or descended from a military veteran. Other requirements include a 3.5 minimum GPA, demonstration of financial need, proof of the veteran’s service, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and an essay.
Essay contest for college students with disabilities who are enrolled and matriculated as full-time or student.in a two- or four-year accredited college or university. Students who are part-time are welcome also as long as their part-time status is because of their disability and not because of financial restraints. The essay must not exceed 1000 words. We offer two scholarships per school year. One in the fall semester and one in the spring semester since 2004.
The Bethesda Auxiliary of Bethesda Lutheran Communities sponsors annual scholarships for active Lutheran students, including students working to become special-needs teachers. They offer $15,000 in various scholarship awards for undergraduate and postgraduate/seminarian students, with criteria and award amounts depending on the particular scholarship being applied to.
Eddie Wilson Special Education Scholarship is for students graduating from Pomperaug High School or Nonnewaug High School that intend to pursue a career in Special Education (including physical/occupational therapy or speech pathology) for children with intellectual, physical, or other disabilities.
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