Scholarships
Albert Einstein said, “Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others; it is the only means.” The examples set forth by Federationists sparked an inquisitive interest in achieving independence that encouraged me to obtain the necessary skills to become competitive, others modeling of success encouraged me and showed me that I and others like me can achieve similarly and reach to new heights.
Each year at the annual convention the National Federation of the Blind awards scholarships to recognize the achievements of outstanding blind scholars. In addition to a scholarship, each winner will be brought to the National Federation of the Blind Annual Convention in July at Federation expense, providing an excellent opportunity for high level networking with active blind persons in many, many different professions and occupations. Check this page regularly for information and application instructions for the National Federation of the Blind Scholarships.
What kind of student wins an NFB scholarship? Read about past NFB National Scholarship recipients in August-September issues of the Braille Monitor. We invite you to read or listen to the members of the Scholarship Classes and the scholarship presentations which occured during this year’s convention banquet.
Apply for the National Federation of the Blind Scholarship Program
The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) offers one of the largest scholarship programs in the United States for blind students pursuing postsecondary education. Each year, the NFB awards more than $240,000 in scholarships to blind scholars across the country.
Thirty outstanding blind students will each receive a $8,000 scholarship to support their academic goals.
In addition to financial support, scholarship winners gain valuable networking opportunities, mentorship, and recognition for their leadership, academic excellence, and community involvement.
Who Should Apply
Applicants must:
- Be legally blind in both eyes
- Be 18 years of age by July 5 of the application year
- Be a resident of the United States, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico
- Plan to pursue or continue a full-time postsecondary degree program in the fall semester
- Participate in the entire National Federation of the Blind National Convention and scholarship activities if selected as a finalist
High school seniors, current undergraduate students, and graduate students are encouraged to apply.
Scholarship Benefits
In addition to the $8,000 scholarship, finalists receive:
- Travel assistance to attend the National Federation of the Blind National Convention
- Opportunities to meet blind leaders from across the country
- Networking with professionals, mentors, and other outstanding blind students
Important Dates
- Application Opens: December 1
- Application Deadline: March 31 (midnight Eastern Time)
Finalists will be selected in the spring and must attend the National Federation of the Blind National Convention during the summer.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official National Federation of the Blind scholarship portal.
Applicants will need to submit:
- An online application form
- Academic transcripts
- A personal essay
- Letters of recommendation
- Documentation of legal blindness
Connect with the National Federation of the Blind of North Dakota
Students from North Dakota are encouraged to connect with the National Federation of the Blind of North Dakota during the application process. Our affiliate can provide information about the organization, mentorship opportunities, and ways to get involved with the blind community in our state.
Learn More
For complete scholarship details, visit the National Federation of the Blind scholarship program page.
The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. If you are a blind student with ambition, leadership, and determination, we encourage you to apply.