Scholarships Available for Dialysis Patients Going to College?

As someone currently undergoing dialysis, I'm curious about any scholarships specifically designed for students like me. Are there programs that support patients who are working towards a college degree?

Absolutely, there are scholarships meant to assist students undergoing dialysis, or dealing with similar medical challenges.

For instance, the American Kidney Fund's Carolyn Wilson Dialysis Patient Scholarship offers support people with end-stage renal disease looking to pursue vocational training or higher education. Do note that you must live in Arkansas, Louisiana, or Oklahoma to qualify for this scholarship, which you can learn more about here: https://www.kidneyfund.org/get-assistance/education-scholarship

Another potential avenue could be the Culpepper Exum Scholarship from the National Kidney Foundation. It aims to assist young adult kidney patients in achieving their educational goals.

Also consider scholarships which are broader but still relevant, such as those designed for students with disabilities or serious health conditions. The Patient Advocate Foundation, for example, offers scholarships for undergraduate or graduate students who have been diagnosed with a critical or life-threatening disease, including renal/kidney disease.

It can also be useful to approach organizations related to your health condition (like the Renal Support Network, for example), as they might be aware of scholarships that are less well-known.

Remember to also check out your intended school's scholarship offerings and with the financial aid office—they may have scholarships for students dealing with significant health issues like this.

In any case, keep in mind that alongside scholarships, you should also fill out the FAFSA and consider merit-based scholarships to see what other aid might be available to you! There are many resources out there dedicated to ensuring students with significant health challenges can still pursue their educational goals.