Advocacy Groups

• Organizations that support and advocate for the blind community can be a financial resource for students. The American Foundation for the Blind, established in 1921, is a nonprofit based in New York City. As of August 2011, the AFB offered seven scholarship opportunities for post-secondary students in the blind community. All applicants must submit an essay, letters of recommendation, transcripts, proof of acceptance to a college or university, proof of U.S. citizenship and certification of blindness from an optometrist, ophthalmologist or agency for the blind. Students applying for music scholarships must also submit a performance recording.
  
  

Religious Organizations

• For students who identify with an organized religion, scholarship opportunities often exist in faith-based charitable institutions. The Jewish Guild for the Blind in New York City is a nonprofit and non-sectarian association dedicated to those who are visually impaired, blind or multidisabled. The guild offers the GuildScholar award for blind students planning to attend college or university. As of August 2011, 12 to 16 awards of $15,000 each were granted annually.
  
  

University Offered Scholarships

• Some post-secondary institutions offer their own financial awards to blind students through funds established by alumni, private donors, departments or staff. At George Washington University in Washington, D.C., the Barbara Jackman Zuckert Scholarship for Blind Part-time Students is granted to students who are blind as well as those who are visual or print-impaired. The annual scholarship is open to U.S. citizens or legal residents who demonstrate financial need and have a record of academic achievement.
  
  

Regional Scholarships

• Local organizations that support education, youth involvement or services for the blind can be a scholarship source. A good place to start when compiling a list of potential sponsors is your high school's college adviser or guidance counselor or the financial aid department of a college or university. The Florida Council of the Blind offers two academic awards to blind students who are Florida residents. All applicants must also have at least a 3.0 GPA to qualify for the Florida Council of the Blind Scholarship Program and a 3.2 for the Gayle M. Krause-Edwards Scholarship.