Special Education Grants are usually offered to those individuals who suffer from certain physical or mental disabilities. Thus, they are given to those students who have special educational needs. For example, if you suffer from a disability that makes it impossible for you to attend classes regularly or if your attention span is reduced by your disability, then you can qualify for a special education grant.
These grants may be offered by certain philanthropic organizations, government or even individuals. It should be noted that, if a student qualifies for a special education grant, it in no way disqualifies him for other types of educational grants.
Thus, he may apply for both category of grants in order to fulfill his need for educational funds.
Educational Grants Available for Special Education Students
Here are a few sources where you can find information about educational grants that are being currently to special students:
- The Heath Resource Center of American Council for Education offers information about various grants available currently to special students as well as others.
- Information about government educational grants, specially offered to students with disabilities can be found US Department of Education’s Clearinghouse.
- Further information may be acquired at your school’s finance office. Here, you will get a list of private individuals and organizations, that offer grants to special students.
- Apart from grants, special students may also apply for educational loans at discounted rates.
- Educational grants for special students may also include provision for additional material that the students may need for their education.
Who Qualify for Special Education Grants?
Usually, students who have any disability with respect to their physical, mental or emotional faculties, that actively hinders their education qualify for these grants. The qualification criteria often varies from one grant to the other. Some may be offered to any student with a disability while others are offered only to those suffering from a particular disability. The details of the same will be available with the agency to which you wish to apply for the grant.
Before applying for such a grant, you will need a certificate stating the nature of your disability from an authorized doctor.
Applying for a Special Education Grant
To apply for such an educational grant, you need to submit an application to the desired organization in the format specified by them. The information provided in the forms should be duly attested and confirmed by your educational institute. The form for such a grant can usually be downloaded from the organization’s website. Information regarding the various rules, qualification criteria etc. will also be provided there. The form once filled and attached with the necessary supporting documents, can be mailed to the organization.
You should get a confirmation regarding your application within 2 weeks. However, this period may vary. In some cases, you may need further correspondence or you may need to submit additional information.
Thus, a large number of grants are available for students suffering from any disability. They should make use of the same to gain additional support and facilities for their education.
