The American Council of the Blind’s (ACB) Scholarship Program was established in 1982. The American Council of the Blind (ACB) and the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) have now partnered together to offer educational scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $7,500 for those attending a technical college or as an entering freshman, undergraduate or a graduate student.
This program awards students with scholarships to help with post-secondary education financial needs such as tuition, fees, room and board and other additional costs associated with adaptive technology.
To be eligible for a scholarship, applicants need to be legally blind, maintain a 3.0 GPA to be eligible for most scholarships, be a full-time student (as well as students who work 32 or more hours per week and attend college part time), and be involved in their school/local community.
Applications for the 2020-2021 school year can be submitted online from Friday, November 1, 2019 to Friday, February 14, 2020 11:59pm (CST).
All interested candidates must register for a new ACB account prior to submitting a scholarship application online. Visit this link to register.
Candidates should receive an email containing a link to complete the scholarship application after their account request has been approved. Please note - the approval process could take up to three business days.
Scholarship winners will experience firsthand ACB’s National Conference and Convention in July, where you will meet other students who share the same life experiences, create lasting friendships and network with individuals who understand what you are going through and can help you with your journey. There are also many sessions where you can learn about new technology and what is happening in our community.
For more information, please contact Nancy Feela in the ACB National Office at (612) 332-3242 or (800) 866-3242. We look forward to receiving your application materials.
Scholarships Awards
To maximize the financial impact, scholarship awardees may receive a combined AFB and ACB award.
Doctor Duane Buckley -- ACB
Undergraduate who has overcome major difficulties
Kellie Cannon -- ACB
Studying in the field of computer science, data processing, programming, web development, etc.
William H. Corey -- ACB
Pennsylvania resident
Charles Dillman -- AFB (4 scholarships)
Studying in the field of disability rehabilitation or teaching
Rudolph Dillman -- AFB (4 scholarships)
Studying in the field of disability rehabilitation or teaching
Eunice Fiorito -- ACB
Studying in advocacy or disability services
R.I. Gillette, Gladys C. Anderson and Karen D. Carsel Memorial -- AFB
For an undergraduate woman studying music
John Hebner -- ACB
Must be working full time and enrolled in substantial courses
James R. Olsen Memorial -- ACB
Undergraduate studying business, computer science, or information technology and involved in community service.
ACB Oregon -- ACB
Oregon resident
Ross N. Pangere Foundation -- ACB (3 scholarships)
Studying in the field of business, computer science or information technology
Floyd Qualls Memorial -- ACB (5 Scholarships)
General studies
Paul and Ellen Ruckes -- AFB
Studying physical or computer sciences or engineering.
Norma Schecter -- ACB
General studies
Arnold Sadler -- ACB
Studying in the field of disability rehabilitation, education, law & etc.