Fully Funded Scholarships For Students With Chronic Illness 2024/2025

For students with chronic illness, finding the financial means to pursue higher education can be a difficult task. Fortunately, there are a number of fully funded scholarships available that can help offset the cost of tuition and other related expenses.

These scholarships are designed specifically for students who have a chronic illness and can provide much-needed financial support. In addition to financial assistance, many of these scholarships also offer valuable resources and support networks. With the right scholarship, students with chronic illness can focus on achieving their educational goals and thriving in their studies.

The Horatio Alger National Scholarship

The Horatio Alger National Scholarship program, a philanthropic initiative by the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, is designed to assist high school students who have successfully navigated significant adversity – including chronic illnesses – and have ambitions for higher education. 

Eligibility:

• Must be a high school junior enrolled full-time in the United States.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to pursuing and completing a bachelor’s degree at an accredited non-profit public or private institution in the United States.
• Have critical financial need with an adjusted gross family income of $65,000 or lower per year.
• Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities.
• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity, including chronic illness.

Award:

• Up to $25,000 per year for up to four years of undergraduate study.
• Additional support services like mentorship and networking opportunities.

Application Process:

1. Create an account on the Horatio Alger Association website: https://horatioalger.org/scholarships-and-services/undergraduate-scholarships/
2. Complete the online application by the deadline, typically in October.
3. Submit supporting documents: Transcripts, proof of financial need, essay, letters of recommendation.
4. Attend an optional in-person interview if selected as a finalist

This comprehensive approach ensures that Scholars receive more than just financial assistance, paving the way for a successful transition into college life and beyond.

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The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation (CCF) College Scholarships

For students dealing with the struggles of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation (CCF) extends financial support through their college scholarship programs. These programs aim to lessen the financial strain for students battling these chronic illnesses while striving to succeed acadically.

Eligibility:

• Be diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
• Be a US citizen or permanent resident.
• Be enrolled full-time in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program in the US.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Have a minimum GPA of 2.5 (undergraduate) or 3.0 (graduate).
• Be involved in community service activities.

Scholarship Awards:

• The CCF offers several scholarship programs with varying award amounts, ranging from $1,000 to $25,000.
• Some scholarships are need-based, while others are merit-based.

Through these scholarship programs, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation seeks to provide financial relief, encouragement, and recognition to students managing chronic illnesses. These scholarships serve as a testament to the strength, perseverance, and potential of these students, aiding them in their journey toward higher education and personal growth.

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Read Also: Fully Funded Scholarships For Military Spouses In USA

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) Scholarships

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has several scholarships in place to support students living with diabetes. A key initiative of the ADA is the Pathway to Stop Diabetes program.

Eligibility:

• Be diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
• Be a US citizen or permanent resident.
• Be enrolled full-time in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program in the US.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Maintain a minimum GPA as specified by each scholarship program.
• Be actively involved in diabetes advocacy or education.

Application Process:

• Application deadlines vary: Typically between October and June, depending on the specific scholarship.
• Applications are submitted online through the ADA website: [[invalid URL removed]]([invalid URL removed])]
• Required materials include transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, proof of diagnosis and financial need, and documentation of diabetes involvement.

Overall, the American Diabetes Association strives to create opportunities for students living with diabetes through their varied scholarship programs. They aim to minimize financial barriers and provide meaningful support to these students as they navigate their educational journey and shape their future.

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FAQS

What is the hardest chronic illness to live with?

Determining the hardest chronic illness to live with varies based on individual experiences, but conditions like ALS, MS, and cancer can be particularly challenging due to their progressive nature and impact on daily life.

What is the best thing for chronic illness?

The best approach for chronic illness management varies, but key strategies include seeking medical treatment, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, building a support network, and engaging in self-care activities.

What counts as chronic illness?

Chronic illnesses are long-term health conditions requiring ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, hypertension, asthma, arthritis, heart disease, COPD, autoimmune disorders, and mental health conditions.

What to do if you’re chronically ill?

Take proactive steps such as seeking medical care, following treatment plans, educating yourself about your condition, building a support network, practicing self-care, and advocating for your needs.

Which disease has no cure?

Various diseases have no cure, including HIV/AIDS, certain types of cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, and autoimmune disorders like lupus and multiple sclerosis.

Conclusion

Finally, it is crucial to remember that having a chronic illness does not define a student or their potential for success. These scholarships are a testament to the strength, tenacity, and ability of students with chronic illnesses. They serve as a reminder that with the right support and resources, every student has the potential to achieve their educational and personal goals.

In conclusion, the path to higher education may seem challenging for students with chronic illnesses, but with the assistance of these fully-funded scholarships and other available resources, it is entirely possible. Despite their health challenges, these students can, and do, succeed academically and personally, proving that they are more than their chronic illness. They are fighters, scholars, and role models, whose resilience is an inspiration to us all.