How Can Autistic Students Find College Scholarships?

I'm an autistic high school junior interested in finding scholarships specifically for autistic students. Are there any available for the 2024 academic year? It'd be great to hear about any nationwide opportunities or ones specific to states like Arizona or Ohio.

Yes, there are indeed a few scholarships that are dedicated to assisting students with autism in pursuing their college education. Here are a few you might find beneficial:

1. The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) offers the Schwallie Family Scholarship Program for students across the U.S. pursuing a two or four-year undergraduate degree. The award is $3,000, and the application typically opens in January and closes in May.

2. The Autism Society of America provides the Autism Society Higher Education Scholarship. The amount varies, and the application period usually runs from March to May.

3. The Kelly Law Team Autism Scholarship offers two $1,000 scholarships annually for students attending an accredited college or university in the United States. The scholarship accepts applications throughout the year.

Specific to Arizona, there's the Arizona Disabled Veteran Scholarship which, if you are an Arizona resident and a veteran with a 100% service-connected disability, could be a significant help.

For Ohio residents, you want to check out the Ohio College Opportunity Grant. While it's not specifically for autistic students, this need-based award is given to Ohio residents taking classes part-time or more at an approved Ohio college, university, or career center (offering an associate's degree or nursing diploma).

Remember, local organizations in your community may also offer scholarships for students with autism, so reaching out to Arizona's or Ohio's Department of Education or local autism support groups may help you discover more opportunities. College admissions offices sometimes have information about scholarships for students with disabilities as well, so don't hesitate to reach out to the schools you're applying to and inquire!

Finally, don't confine your search to scholarships aimed solely for individuals on the spectrum. There are many scholarships out there based on your academic interests, community involvement, leadership experiences, or other aspects of your profile, so broaden your search to increase your chances. Be sure to also fill out your FAFSA to get your Student Aid Index (SAI) and see what need-based aid you qualify for. Good luck with your scholarship search!