Source: Fastweb
There is a wide range of organizations and advocacy groups who are dedicated to helping anyone living with cancer have a college education. This applies to cancer patients and survivors, as well as children or siblings of cancer patients and survivors.
Unfortunately, cancer is more common in the college community than we may assume. According to statistics, about 72,000 learners aged between 15 and 39 are diagnosed with cancer every year where one of every 100 college students is a cancer survivor.
Both the mental and physical aspects of battling cancer in college are quite serious, which makes it crucial for the students and their family members to seek additional help. Thankfully, numerous colleges in the United States and beyond provide relevant support that ranges from special scholarships to accommodation rules and boarding where each student battling cancer can receive immediate assistance and mental support.
This wonderful resource addresses the challenges of attending college with cancer, different types of support on campus and beyond, college life after cancer: tips and recommendations, helpful resources, scholarships for students with cancer, survivors and family members … all in an informative and student-friendly presentation.
Source: Ryan Bronson
[email protected]
Support for College Students with Cancer
Cancer does not discriminate. It does not care about age, race, religion or anything else — and it certainly does not care if you are a college student. The good news is that college students coping with cancer can find a wealth of support from understanding teachers to accommodations and support groups. This guide is for those trying to pursue their dream of higher education — despite their battle with the Big C.
This resource includes information on:
The reality of attending college with cancer and its side effects
Accommodations and academic adjustments and how to receive accommodations
Online learning resources for students with cancer
Support groups on- and 0ff-campus.
The National GRACE Foundation
GRACE stands for Growing, Recovering and Achieving a College Education.
Provides FREE college admissions and financial aid counseling to pediatric cancer patients and survivors.
1. COLLEGE ADMISSIONS & FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION NIGHTS
Admissions and financial aid experts conduct informational group sessions on the college admission process and financial aid process at hospitals across the country.
2. ADVOCACY SERVICES
The Foundation reaches out to college officials to highlight the adversity that cancer fighters have overcome and helps students understand the various services available to them while in college, such as disability services. The Foundation can also serve as a reference for students and act as a liaison with the schools.
3. COMPREHENSIVE ADMISSION AND FINANCIAL AID COUNSELING
The National GRACE Foundation provides one-on-one counseling with pediatric cancer fighters and survivors and their families including
- Guiding college selection
- Essay review
- Understanding the financial aid for cancer patients process
Upon graduation, the Foundation works with students to manage student loans and also assists them in applying for graduate school.
4. TEST PREPARATION
College Standardized Test Preparation manuals are given free of charge to high school juniors and seniors.
graceamerica.org/GraceFoundation.
Federal Sources of Cancer Scholarships
While there are no actual federally-funded scholarships for cancer survivors, there are a number of general grants that are open to all students. These are need-based grants. The financial burden placed on cancer patients and their families is likely to make them eligible for an award.
Federal Pell Grant
This program is open to undergraduate students who are pursuing their first associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Awards are determined according to financial need. The maximum annual award is $5,550.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
The FSEOG is available to students who have qualified for a Pell grant but are still left with considerable unmet need. The FSEOG program is administered through the financial aid offices of participating colleges and universities. Awards range from $100 to $4,000.
Private Sources of Scholarships
The majority of scholarships for cancer patients and survivors are funded by the private sector. Professional associations and advocacy and support groups are the primary source of financial assistance.
Students should begin their search by looking for organizations and support groups linked to their type of cancer.
Scholarships are dependent upon private and corporate donations. The availability of programs and award amounts are subject to change according to current funding.
Ambient Edge Scholarship
702 979 7855
We want to help high-achieving students who have dealt with — or are still dealing with — cancer in any form. The scholarship will grant $1,000 to one talented, hard-working student to help them reach their dreams.
Our scholarship is open to students who have been diagnosed with cancer themselves, as well as those who have stood by a loved one. Survivors, current cancer patients, and the allies of patients and survivors are welcome to apply.
You must be currently enrolled in, or were accepted to, an accredited college/university in the U.S. Undergraduate and graduate students are both welcome, as are incoming first-year students.
Your GPA is 3.0 or higher.
You are either a current/former cancer patient, or have stood by a loved one who was diagnosed with cancer.
You must submit a copy of your transcript, along with your application and essay.
American Cancer Society
800 227 2345
The American Cancer Society does not provide student scholarships at this time. But you can contact them to learn of scholarship resources that might be available in your geographic area.
Ari’s Bears Scholarship
The Ari’s Bears Collegiate Scholarship for childhood cancer survivors was established by Ari’s Bears, a 501(c)(3) organization, to carry on the legacy of its founder, Ariella Stein. At nine years of age, Ariella Stein knew firsthand how hard a hospital stay could be. Although she herself was undergoing grueling treatments for Ewing’s Sarcoma, Ariella wanted to start a foundation, Ari’s Bears, to bring comfort and joy to other children in the hospital. She used her own money to purchase and make stuffed animals that she later delivered to pediatric patients.
Applicants must enroll in an accredited college or university in the fall the scholarship is awarded and must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 through the prior calendar year (high school seniors may submit high school transcripts; college students must submit college transcripts). Applicants must provide evidence of a cancer diagnosis and must have demonstrated community service in the area of childhood cancer.
Applicants must provide an official transcript through the year prior to applying (minimum 2.5 GPA required), a signed statement from the applicant’s physician verifying the cancer diagnosis, two letters of recommendation from non-relatives, proof of enrollment in a college/university for the fall, and a high resolution photo of just yourself submitted electronically for our website.
Bags of Love Foundation
Objective is to provide $1000-$2500 awards offering educational assistance for college bound seniors or students currently enrolled in a college/university. Number of scholarships awarded determined by funds available. Scholarship application period is from January 1st – April 30th.
Applicant must be a California resident who has been diagnosed with cancer, must be a high school senior entering a college/university or a current student enrolled in college/university and must demonstrate financial need.
Write a personal essay in which you explain how cancer has affected you and/or what you have done in your community to make a positive impact. Application form must be completely and correctly filled out. Official or unofficial transcript must be submitted and at least one letter of recommendation is required (two recommended). Must be able to provide proof of enrollment, letter of acceptance or class schedule. Must provide proof of cancer diagnosis … a letter of diagnosis from the doctor.
Baron and Budd Mesothelioma Cancer Victims Memorial Scholarships
Baron and Budd mesothelioma attorneys have been dedicated to fighting for the rights of mesothelioma cancer victims and their loved ones for over four decades and have established these scholarships to honor their legacy.
Each entry must be an entering freshman only for any major field of study or undecided major, entering a U.S.-based four-year university or college or a two-year college, provide two letters of recommendation, submit either a written essay or video, and accepted into a university or college.
Base2Summit Scholarship
The Base2Summit Scholarship is available to students who were diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 13 and 30. Applicants must have been accepted into a post-secondary institution for the fall semester of the upcoming academic year. You must be a resident of Michigan.
Beyond the Cure Ambassador Scholarship (National Children’s Cancer Society)
800 632 6459, ext. 215
Awards college scholarships to childhood cancer survivors who have demonstrated the ability to overcome the difficult challenges of brain cancer with determination and motivation. Applicant must be a survivor of cancer or a high grade or anaplastic brain tumor under the age of 25 and diagnosed before the age of 18, a citizen of the United States, and accepted into an accredited post-secondary institution. Must maintain an overall 2.5/4.0 GPA, agree to volunteer for NCCS 15 hours, be a full-time status student, and submit grades regularly.
Each year, fifty-eight (58) childhood cancer survivors are awarded the scholarship to help them achieve their academic and professional goals.
Brain Injury Survivors Grant Program: Educational Award
202 659 0122
Must be a graduating high school senior with an acquired brain injury who is planning or continuing his/her education beyond high school including a 2- or 4- year college or other professional or trade school. $500 award can be used for books, tuition and other necessary supplies (computer, etc.).
Brian Morden Foundation Memorial Scholarship
Awarded to childhood cancer survivors who are pursuing a post-secondary school degree. These scholarships are open to childhood cancer survivors nationwide. Any student with a fascination for technology and a love of music is eligible for this scholarship, although individuals who are cancer survivors are given special consideration. Up to $1,000.
Bristol-Meyers Squibb Scholarship for Cancer Survivors
800 537 4180
The Bristol-Myers Squibb Scholarship was created to assist cancer survivors who plan to continue their education in college or vocational school programs. Applicants must be cancer survivors (diagnosed by a physician as having treatment of cancer and survived), age 25 and under, who are high school seniors or graduates or post-secondary undergraduates. Qualified applicants must plan to enroll in a full-time undergraduate study at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school for the entire academic year. They must have a minimum 3.5 GPA.
Cameron Siemers Foundation for Hope
The Life Grant is a cash award that provides up to $5,000 to anyone between the ages of 18 and 30 who is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. The award can be used for anything, including schooling, where the recipient will fulfill a dream or goal.
Canceling Cancer Scholarship (Sponsored by Doran & Murphy, Attorneys at Law)
716 217 671
This scholarship is intended to assist those who have been impacted by cancer, whether you have been diagnosed yourself or you were directly impacted by the cancer diagnosis of a family member or close friend. We hope that this scholarship will serve as a beacon of hope for cancer survivors and those impacted by this terrible disease while contributing to their educational goals. One student will be selected to receive this $1,000 award.
We believe that sharing our stories provides inspiration for those facing this difficult time and can help generate awareness and encourage others to get involved in the fight against cancer. In a 750-1,000 word essay, explain your experience with cancer and how that experience changed you as a person.
Must be admitted to or currently attending a college/university/technical/trade school (2- or 4-year).
Must have a medical condition covered by program.
Must have Grade Point Average (GPA) determined by program (see website).
U.S. citizen or legal alien/permanent resident.
Meet program’s eligibility criteria.
Cancer for College
760 599 5096
Cancer for College provides need-based college scholarships and educational experiences to cancer survivors. Each year we award over 100 scholarships to cancer survivors.
Must be a US resident enrolled in an accredited university or community college. (For the purpose of the application, if you are an incoming freshman, you do not have to be already enrolled in college to apply. Please include the names of the schools you have applied to on the application. You must be enrolled at the time of award.) Must be a cancer patient/cancer survivor. Need tax forms from previous year of parents and applicant, letter from university stating applicant is in good standing, last 2 years of transcripts, diagnosis letter, 2 recommendation letters, and total cost of attendance. Graduate students may apply as well.
Awards are typically $5,000 each.
CancerCare YPC Scholarship
The CancerCare YPC Scholarship is available to high school seniors and undergraduate students who have lost a parent or guardian to cancer in the last two years. You must be a resident of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, or Pennsylvania to be eligible for this award.
Cancer Survivors’ Fund
281 437 7142
The Cancer Survivors Fund awards four levels of scholarships to augment the expenses associated with the college educations of young cancer survivors. A selection committee chooses scholarship recipients based on the applicants’ personal hardships, assessing their financial and emotional needs as well as their academic qualifications. Must be enrolled in or accepted for enrollment in an accredited undergraduate school and must complete the online scholarship application. Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation and an essay.
The applicant must be a cancer survivor or currently diagnosed with cancer, enrolled in or accepted for enrollment in an accredited undergraduate school. The applicant must submit two recommendation letters from two different academic teachers. Must also submit an essay discussing the following question: How has my experience with cancer impacted my life values and career goals? The applicants must agree to do volunteer work to use their cancer experience to help other young cancer patients and survivors coping with a life threatening or life-altering event.
Cancer Unwrapped Teen Writing Contest
The Cancer Unwrapped Teen Writing Contest is open to high school students. To enter, you must submit a 1500 word essay about your experience with cancer. Your essay can be about your own diagnosis or that of a loved one.
Candlelighters for Children with Cancer Continuing Education Scholarship
Financial assistance is awarded to high school seniors or current college students who have previously been or are currently diagnosed with cancer to support their pursuit of a higher education. Applicant must be a current resident of Oregon or Southwest Washington, or — if attending school elsewhere — must reside in Oregon or Southwest Washington when not actively boarding at school. Applicant must have or have had cancer before age 21and must be pursuing an undergraduate, technical, or vocational education. Applicant must be a graduating high school senior or an enrolled post-secondary student at the time of application. If a high school senior, the applicant must have at minimum a cumulative 3.0 G.P.A. If the applicant has an I.E.P. or accommodations in place, the required G.P.A. is 2.5. If the applicant is currently attending a post-secondary school, the required G.P.A is 2.0.
Canuso Foundation (Villanova University Scholarship)
856 857 0065
The Canuso scholarships are for Villanova students who are experiencing financial stress due to their own or a family member’s illness. Students must contact the Villanova Office of Financial Assistance and let them know about the family’s situation. The financial aid counselor will assist the student in applying for the scholarship.
Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers Cancer Survivors Scholarship
855 976 9409
The scholarship will recognize a deserving student who not only survived a devastating illness but now demonstrates a commitment to helping others diagnosed with cancer or another serious illness.
Applicants must meet these criteria to qualify for the scholarship:
3.0 GPA (must provide unofficial transcript)
Admitted to or enrolled in an accredited college or university or graduate school
Write and submit an essay on the topic How are you helping others diagnosed with a serious illness and how did your cancer diagnosis influence you to help others?
Childhood Cancer Survivor College Scholarship — The EVAN Foundation
The Evan Lindberg & Erik Ludwinski College Scholarship Program is open to high school seniors who are survivors of high-risk cancers or currently in treatment. Students must be enrolled in a 4 year undergraduate institution and demonstrate a need for financial assistance.
Applications are accepted from March 15 to May 1, with winners announced July 1. Grants are awarded for a period of one year and may be renewed annually upon proof of continued eligibility and available funding.
Children’s Cancer Center
The Children’s Cancer Center, with the support of the Panera Bread and the Knead for Knowledge Scholarship Program, sponsors advanced education scholarships for Florida students that have had a diagnosis of cancer or chronic blood disease in the Tampa Bay area before the age of 21. Scholarships are for undergraduate degrees from an accredited university, college, community college, vocational technical school or other approved program.
Children’s Cancer Connection Empowering Scholarship
This scholarship is open to current and incoming college students who themselves have had or had a sibling who was diagnosed with cancer before the age of 18 and was living, treated, or diagnosed in the state of Iowa. The scholarship is funded by The Children’s Cancer Connection, a non-profit organization that serves families impacted by pediatric cancer within the state of Iowa. Each year, the scholarship awards up to $1,000 to help selected students pay for their college expenses.
Children’s Cause for Cancer Advocacy
Children’s Cause for Cancer Advocacy (CCCA) is pleased to offer an opportunity for two childhood cancer survivors to gain valuable cancer advocacy experience. Award recipients will receive a scholarship of $2,000 via our College Scholars Program.
Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship
The mission of the Massachusetts Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) is to promote and enhance access to higher education by delivering quality student financial aid information and services to residents of the Commonwealth, and thus ensuring that they have an opportunity to enrich their lives and contribute to the economic development and social progress of the state. OSFA has a variety of merit- and need-based grant, scholarship, no-interest loan and tuition waiver programs available for your use at numerous schools.
Cure Cancer Support Scholarship
The scholarship is designated for students who were diagnosed with cancer and whose disease and related treatments placed a significant financial burden on them and their families. Scholarship recipients must furnish a letter of confirmation by a licensed physician as proof of their cancer diagnosis.
Deana’s Wish Memorial Scholarship
The Deana’s Wish Memorial Scholarship is a private scholarship program established by the DLH Foundation in memory of Deana LaRae Hamilton Hughes. The program annually grants scholarships of up to $2,000 to college students affected by gastro-esophageal or stomach cancers in their families.
Must be a U.S. Citizen entering or continuing college in the academic year the scholarship is awarded. Applicant must have maintained a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.0 and provide one or more letters of recommendation
DLH Foundation
760 705 3055
The DLH Foundation offers scholarships for individuals who have been diagnosed with esophageal or stomach cancer, or have an immediate family member (parent, grandparent, sibling, child or spouse) who has been affected by esophageal or stomach cancer. Applicants must be US citizens entering or continuing college in the upcoming academic year and must have maintained a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Applicants must have an SAT score of at least 1100 or/an ACT score of at least 24. The application process requires a short essay, a video of the applicant reading the essay, transcripts, and one letter of recommendation. If you want to be a Deana’s Wish Memorial Scholar, send an emal to [email protected] and complete the application today! Applications must be submitted to the DLH Foundation by March 1st.
Eagles Fly for Leukemia
We award scholarships to pediatric cancer patients and survivors to help them achieve the next phase of their lives and fulfill their dreams.
Contact for Kim Hill Scholarship: Trish Fluvio, [email protected], 484-433-7767
Contact for St. Joseph’s University Full Tuition Scholarship
Contact for Drexel University Full Tuition Scholarship
Eligibility Requirements: Current high school seniors or currently enrolled college students (Kim Hill awards only) who have battled or are currently battling cancer.
Financial Awards: Kim Hill Scholarships ($3000 each); 1 full-tuition St. Joseph’s University Scholarship; 1 full-tuition Drexel University Scholarship
Environmental Research Center Cancer Scholarship
These scholarships are available to provide financial assistance to college students in their pursuit of a higher education who have previously or are currently diagnosed with cancer. High school seniors or current college students are eligible for these scholarships.
FinAid
To Go-to Guide for college financial aid. Financial aid helps students and their families pay for college. It can cover a range of educational expenses, like tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and transportation. FinAid is a dedicated page of scholarships available to cancer patients, cancer survivors, children of a cancer patient or survivor, students who lost a parent to cancer, and students pursuing careers in cancer treatment. You will find many links here for individual scholarship opportunities as well as information on other types of financial aid that are available. Over 30 applications available.
Fastweb
The online resource for information regarding paying for and preparing for school. Lists scholarships for every type of student from the high school freshman to the returning adult, not specific to cancer. (When searching Fastweb for cancer scholarships, please answer the optional questions. There is one that asks whether the student is a cancer survivor and one that asks whether the student’s parent had cancer. One can answer the optional questions by editing the profile through the link in the upper right hand corner of the site’s pages.) There are many groups and organizations who have developed grant and cancer scholarships to help students currently battling or who have battled cancer as well as students whose family members have been affected by cancer.
Friends of Scott Foundation
619 993 2917
Friends of Scott Foundation offers a scholarship each year to California cancer patients currently in- or post-treatment. It provides funding to survivors who want to continue their education through technical school, vocational school, junior college, or a four-year college or university. Graduate students may apply as well.Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate school.
Gloria Borges WunderGlo Foundation Scholarship
The Gloria Borges WunderGlo Foundation Scholarship awards high school seniors who lost a parent to colorectal cancer. Eligible applicants must be a graduating high school senior a 2.0 GPA, and show acceptance to a community college, 4 year college or university, nursing program, military or professional trade school (actual scholarship monies will be awarded upon proof of registration).
Hawkins Spizman Kilgo, LLC Childhood Cancer Awareness Scholarship
Hawkins Spizman Kilgo, LLC offers a Childhood Cancer Awareness Scholarship, in support of those who have survived or been directly affected by childhood cancer. This $1,000 scholarship will support one hard-working student who has had firsthand experience with this devastating disease.
Hydrocephalus Association
888 598 3789
Applicants must be 17 or older and have hydrocephalus. Scholarship funds must be used for an educational purpose: a two- or four-year college, a high school post-graduate year to prepare for college, technical or trade school, an accredited employment-training program or a post-graduate program. The scholarship funds may be used for tuition, books, housing or an expense directly related to the education experience. One letter of reference is required.
Financial Award: scholarships of $1,000 each
Izzy Foundation Academic Scholarship Program
Offers academic scholarships of $1,000 for survivors of childhood cancer and their siblings.
The Izzy Foundation offers academic scholarships to children nationwide who have been diagnosed with or treated for pediatric cancer and their siblings.
College Applicants MUST :
- Be a current pediatric cancer patient, a childhood cancer survivor, and/ or a sibling under the age of 25 (bereaved siblings are welcome to apply).
- Have been diagnosed before the age of 18 with pediatric cancer.
- Provide a letter verifying cancer diagnosis (of sibling or self).
- Be a citizen of the United States living within the country and attending school in the U.S.
- Be enrolled in or accepted for enrollment in an accredited undergraduate school.
- Submit one letter of recommendation from teacher, mentor or employer.
- Submit a 250-500 word essay on academic and career goals along with why you choose The Izzy Foundation (written by the student applying).
- You will also have the option to share a video, artwork or other forms of artists expression explaining your academic goals (application will explain to you how to do this).
On average, The Izzy Foundation gives between $500 to a $1,000 per approved student each year for up to three (3) years. Scholarships awarded are distributed by January 31st of each year. The funds are mailed directly to the recipients accredited School/University.
Jackie Spellman Scholarship Foundation
888 553 5773
Open to U.S. citizens who have been impacted in some way by leukemia or lymphoma, either as survivors or individuals who have a member of his or her immediate family who have or had leukemia or lymphoma while living in the same household. Eligible students include high school seniors or those attending community college, a four-year university, or graduate schools. Student must have a minimum un-weighted 3.0 GPA.
Scholarships of $5,000 are awarded to approximately 12 students annually. The scholarship funds will be paid directly to the college or university for tuition and fees.
James and Patricia Sood Scholarship
The James and Patricia Sood Scholarship is awarded to a young adult student who is pursuing a degree and career in education. Applicants must have been between the ages of 15 and 39 during their own diagnosis/treatment or during the diagnosis/treatment of their parent or sibling.
Jennifer Casey Alderman Legacy Scholarship Award
Jennifer was originally diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer in 2009 and experienced a metastatic recurrence of stage IV breast cancer in 2013. She was a founding patient advocate with the Twisted Pink organization and dedicated her life living with metastatic breast cancer advocating for better outcomes for people living with the disease through research and supporting the mission of Twisted Pink.
Twisted Pink, along with the family and closest friends of Jennifer Alderman, will honor her legacy and recognize her lifelong dream of being a constant and present figure in her children’s life with the annual Jennifer Casey Alderman Legacy Scholarship Award. This award will provide one young adult annually with a $10,000 scholarship to seek a higher education. Scholarship recipients are eligible to receive $2,500 annually throughout their undergraduate career. Award recipients must maintain a grade point average of 3.0 or higher to maintain annual eligibility. Any funds in excess will support research for metastatic breast cancer in Jennifer’s memory. We will strive to find and support research on leptomeningeal disease, which is ultimately what took Jennifer’s life. The annual scholarship award will be presented each year on May 28th, the date that Jennifer entered eternal life.
Twisted Pink will consider nominations from a young adult who has lost a parent to metastatic breast cancer or has financial hardship due to a parent currently living with metastatic breast cancer and wishes to seek a higher education as a post-high school graduate. At this time, scholarship applications will be considered from individuals living in Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, or Tennessee.
John Atkinson Lung Cancer Foundation
Since 2011, the scholarship program has been proud to award 80 scholarships to children around the United States totaling nearly $100,000. Our hope is to ease some of the financial strain placed on families who have lost a parent to lung cancer. Since John Atkinson was a parent of three children, this is the best way to honor his memory and carry out his legacy. Students are awarded up to $2,500 to be used at a college, university, or vocational/trade school. The scholarship is not renewable.
John Foy & Associates Strong Arm Leukemia Scholarship
Applicant must be a college student who has battled leukemia or whose life has been affected by it. Must be enrolled in an accredited college or university as an undergraduate or are an incoming freshman at an accredited institution in the United States. $1,000 award
John Duvall Memorial Scholarship
Applicants must be either a cancer survivor or has supported a family member through their cancer experience. Candidates must demonstrate financial need, and be enrolled in one of these four universities: University of Maryland, Towson University, Elon University, or the Savannah College of Art and Design. Applicants must have been between the ages of 15 and 39 during their own diagnosis/treatment or during the diagnosis/treatment of their parent or sibling.
Karen Baker Scholarship Fund
Applicant must be directly impacted by cancer, either by illness of applying student or immediate family member. Must graduate from a Chester County high school with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, with plans to attend a four-year accredited college.
$5,000 awards per academic year of college attendance, for four consecutive years, totaling $20,000. Yearly award contingent on college student maintaining a 3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) or better.
Kids 4 Kids
713 817 0152
Applicants must have been diagnosed with cancer before their 18th birthday. Applicants must either be enrolled, accepted for enrollment or have applied for enrollment in an educational institution and course of study leading to a recognized degree.
Awards currently range from $500-$2,000 and may depend upon the number of applicants, the Organization’s fiscal condition and other factors. To ensure the Organization’s funds are being applied for approved educational purposes, the Organization reserves the right to pay scholarship funds directly to the educational institution for Awardee’s benefit.
Kisses for Kyle Foundation
267 210 1489
Applicants must be a childhood cancer survivor under the age of 25 and diagnosed before the age of 18. Applicants must reside in the Delaware Valley, be accepted to college or university and plan to enroll this fall, have a proven record of excellence that demonstrates the ability to succeed in college and maximize the opportunity offered by this Scholarship; and pursuing a major that will prepare them for a career in a field that helps children facing cancer.
Scholarships of up to $5000 per year will be awarded to students and are renewable for up to an additional three years. The final amount of each scholarship will be determined based on financial need and status as a full-time or part-time student. This is a competitive application process; not all applicants will receive a scholarship. Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis as funding is available.
Leukemia & Lymphoma Awareness/Law School Scholarship
Assists a current or future law student who has been affected by leukemia or lymphoma by helping to defray the cost of law school expenses. Offers an annual scholarship of $1,000 for law school tuition and/or books. Applicant must submit an essay and complete online application.
LLS Scholarships for Blood Cancer Survivors
Candidate must be a blood cancer patient or survivor diagnosed at age 25 or younger, a United States citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. or a U.S. territory, must submit an LLS verification form, and be attending or planning to attend virtual or in-person vocational, two- or four-year undergraduate education in the U.S. Applicants can be full-time or part-time students. The scholarship cannot be used towards graduate level programs.
$7,500 to cover tuition for virtual or in-person vocational, two- or four-year undergraduate education for the 2023-2024 academic year for blood cancer patients and survivors.
Making Headway Foundation (The Scott J. Reisser Memorial Scholarship Fund)
914 238 8384
Awards $5,000 scholarships to four brain or spinal cord tumor survivors who have been admitted to, or are currently attending, a two- or four-year college or vocational program and reside in the New York City area or New Jersey or Connecticut. The annual scholarship application deadline is May 1.
Mary Ellen Locher Foundation
Scholarships are given to the children of breast cancer patients — either survivors, those currently in treatment, or deceased, residing within a 50-mile radius of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Students will be selected on the basis of eligibility and essays. Community service, grades, and financial need will also be considered in the review of applicants. However, grades will not play a dominant role in the selection process. Scholarship winners are required to participate in at least one breast cancer awareness project during the school year they receive a scholarship. Recipients may complete this requirement on their own or join with the Mary Ellen Locher Foundation or other organizations in fulfilling this requirement.
Mesothelioma.com Scholarship
The Mesothelioma.com Scholarship offers $4,000 scholarships to individuals who have been treated for cancer. Applicants who have battled cancer at any point in their lives (not limited to mesothelioma) are eligible to apply as well as those who have a parent, sibling, immediate family member, or close friend that has battled or is currently fighting cancer. Applicants must be enrolled full-time at an accredited two- or four-year university, community college or junior college, or a graduate degree program and have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher to be eligible.
Mesothelioma Scholarship
This essay contest is open to undergraduate and graduate students who are 18-years-old or older and are currently enrolled in a college or university located within the 50 United States or the District of Columbia. U.S. territories are excluded.
Scholarship prizes are: 1st – $2,500, 2nd – $1,250, 3rd – $750, 4th – $500
Michael A. Hunter Memorial Scholarship
The focus of the scholarship is supporting secondary education for Leukemia/Lymphoma patients and survivors and/or children of non-surviving Leukemia/Lymphoma patients. Applicants must be a graduating high school senior, community college and four-year university students who are Leukemia/Lymphoma patients and/or are children of non-surviving Leukemia/Lymphoma patients. Must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, enroll as a full-time student, and have financial need.
Individual awards range from $2,000-$3,000
Michael’s Way Scholarship Program
215 591 9198
The Michael’s Way Scholarship Program is open to students who received a pediatric cancer diagnosis. To be considered, you must submit a one – page personal essay explaining how your cancer diagnosis has affected your life, education, and goals. Student must have received a pediatric cancer diagnosis prior to age 18 and plan to be enrolled in college or accredited trade school located within the United States.
Five scholarships of $5,000 are available.
Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation
Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation awards eight scholarships of $1,000 each to graduating high school students whose lives have been affected by breast cancer. Students must reside within one of the eight New York State counties: Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Westchester and Ulster.
My Hometown Heroes
My Hometown Heroes provides a scholarship fund dedicated to help young adult cancer survivors confidently pursue their life dreams. They provide grants, scholarships, community outreach, and memorable lifestyle experiences to financially assist and enhance the quality of life for young adult cancer survivors 17-35 years old.
National Collegiate Cancer Foundation (NCCF)
240 515 6262
The National Collegiate Cancer Foundation was established to provide services and support to young adults whose lives have been impacted by cancer and who have continued with their education throughout treatment or after their treatment. Scholarships of $1,000 are available to those in- or post-treatment between the ages of 17-35 who are seeking or receiving higher education. Applicants will be evaluated based on six items: “Will Win” attitude with respect to his or her cancer experience, quality of essays, quality of recommendations, overall story of cancer survivorship, commitment to education and financial need.
Legacy scholarship program: Lost parent/ guardian to cancer. Same application process as above.
Financial Award: $1,000; multiple awards per year
Nicki Leach Foundation
Focusing on individuals who are suffering from cancer, the Nicki Leach Foundation awards a scholarship to individuals aged 18 to 30. It focuses on this age group because they are the least likely to have health insurance — they are often between finishing their college education and obtaining employment which could provide health insurance. Amount varies.
Northwestern Mutual Survivor Scholarship
507 931 1682
The scholarship is open to childhood cancer survivors under 25 years of age who are or will be pursuing a post0secondary education. Funded by the Northwestern Mutual Foundation, the scholarship aims to allow childhood cancer survivors to “continue their education and pursue their college dreams.” The mission is to improve the lives of children and families through support, volunteering, and working with the community. Each year, twenty-five students are given $5,000 to help expense their upcoming academic year. Scholarships may be renewed for up to one year or until recipients earn their bachelor’s degree, whichever occurs first.
To apply, students must be U.S. citizens who are cancer survivors, age 25 or under, and planning to enroll in full-time undergraduate study at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school. Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and demonstrate financial need.
25 scholarships of $5000 are available.
Northwestern Mutual Childhood Cancer Sibling Scholarship
Students must be U.S. citizens and siblings of individuals who are in current treatment, have survived or passed away from pediatric childhood cancer. Applicants must be age 25 or under and planning to enroll in full-time undergraduate study at an accredited two- or four-year college, university or vocational-technical school for the entire upcoming academic year. Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (or the equivalent) and demonstrate financial need.
Ten scholarships of $5,000 each are available.
OnlineSchools.org
Online Schools.org’s “Financial Aid for Students with Disabilities” provides a comprehensive listing of numerous scholarship options for students with disabilities including cancer that range from national financial aid opportunities to local opportunities within the United States and Canada. Each scholarship profile indicates whether online programs at accredited colleges or universities are eligible for the award.
Orange Country Community Foundation
Site provides information about scholarships for cancer patients, cancer survivors, and students who lost a parent to cancer. You will find many links here for individual scholarship opportunities as well as information on other types of financial aid that are available. Over 50 applications available.
Orion Fund
The Orion Fund awards grants to California college students under 30 with serious illness or injury. Their grants generally range from $300 to $3000.
Ortlieb Foundation Scholarship
The Ortlieb Foundation Scholarship is available to full-time students who have been diagnosed with cancer and are receiving treatment of chemotherapy, radiation, or proton therapy from an oncologist.
Patient Advocate Foundation “Scholarships for Survivors”
800 532 5274
Applicant must be a legal resident of the United States under the age of 25 who has been diagnosed with or treated for cancer and/or a chronic/life threatening disease within the past 5 years. Applicant must be pursuing a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Once awarded, recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA, be a full-time student, and complete 20 hours of community service per year that the scholarship is awarded.
$3000 annually up to four consecutive years, payable in equal amounts of $1,500 directly to the recipient’s university or college
Paul Bernot Memorial Foundation Scholarship
The Paul Bernot Memorial Foundation Scholarship exists to provide financial assistance to a student who is a legal resident of the United States, is pursuing post-high school education, is passionate about sports, athletics, and/or physical fitness, and who is currently or has previously been diagnosed/treated for cancer. Must have a 3.0 GPA.
Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation offers scholarships for graduating seniors and students currently enrolled in college. Survivors must have be diagnosed before age 19 with a primary malignant or non-malignant central nervous system brain and/or spinal cord tumor.
Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation Scholarship
The Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation Scholarship is granted to a pediatric cancer patient or survivor. Graduating high school seniors, community college students or four-year university students who have been treated for pediatric cancer may apply. Students must also have a minimum 2.5 GPA to apply.
Pink Ribbon Scholarship
The Pink Ribbon Scholarship Program is awarded to students who have an immediate family member diagnosed with cancer of any type. Applicants must be high school seniors graduating from a school in El Dorado County, California and who are enrolled in a college or university for the upcoming school year.
Pink Rose Foundation
Students who have lost a parent to breast cancer are eligible for this scholarship award. $1,000 grant.
Ram Scholarship for the Arts
The Ram Scholarship for the Arts is available to students who were diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 17 and 35. Special consideration will be given to glioblastoma multiforme survivors. You must be a U.S. citizen to be considered for this award. This award must be used for an art related expense.
Robert L. Schulke Memorial Scholarship
Robert L. Schulke Memorial Scholarships are awarded to students who are cancer survivors or have an immediate family member that is a cancer survivor or has passed away due to cancer. Special consideration will be given to those students enrolled in a health occupation or law enforcement program. Candidates must be a resident of Alpena County, enrolled at ACC for a minimum of six credit hours per semester, and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Ryan Mullaly Second Chance Fund
This scholarship awards financial assistance to young people fighting cancer and whose high school years were disrupted by cancer.
Scholarships.com
Scholarships.com provides a free database of college scholarship information including those specific to cancer patients in active treatment or remission.
Scholarships for Students with Disabilities and Illnesses
Second Chances Scholarship
The Lagman Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization established for the purpose of granting scholarships. Led by a distinguished group from diverse areas of influence, including philanthropy, business, and legal sectors, these principals are committed to carrying out the strategic vision of the Foundation. The members of the Board of Directors bring a substantial amount of knowledge as well as diverse experiences to the table. With their capable stewardship, the Lagman Foundation hopes to expand beyond the scholarship initiative, with the vision to make a meaningful impact on a sizable amount of students’ lives.
The Lagman Foundation grants scholarships to a new generation of diversely talented high school students who have overcome adversity, given back to their communities, and demonstrated a commitment to turning their life around through an interest in academic or creative pursuits. The Foundation identifies and rewards high school seniors who have experienced hardship, and then demonstrated resilience in changing course. The Second Chances Fund looks to provide them assistance in continuing on their road to becoming future leaders in adulthood. Fund awardees receive a scholarship amount between $500-$1,500.
Simon Greenstone Panatier Bartlett Scholarship
Awards a total of $50,000 in annual scholarships to graduating high school seniors from any public or private high school in Dallas County who have been affected by cancer in one of the following ways:
- Have an immediate family member (mother, father, stepmother, stepfather, brother or sister) who is under a current cancer diagnosis and/or treatment for cancer;
- Have an immediate family member who has passed away within the last two years from cancer; or
- Are themselves in treatment for cancer.
Sofiashope.org
Sofia did not have the chance to graduate high school or attend college. Through these scholarships, Sofia’s Hope aspires to help make that dream a reality for other childhood cancer survivors and their siblings. In recognition of Sofia and her sister Gabriela’s love of learning as well as their achievements in academic excellence in school, Sofia’s Hope is proud to announce the following annual scholarship opportunities for both childhood cancer survivors and their siblings.
Sofia Blanco Scholarship for Childhood Cancer Survivors
Childhood cancer survivors can apply to receive one of two (2) scholarships toward their college education. Recipients of the Inaugural Sofia Blanco Scholarships will receive a $2,000 allowance for tuition/room and board, plus a laptop or tablet (first-time awardees only).
Gabriela Blanco Scholarship for Siblings of Childhood Cancer Survivors
Because Sofia’s Hope recognizes that siblings are survivors of childhood cancer, too, siblings can apply to receive one of two scholarships toward their college education. Recipients of the Inaugural Gabriela Blanco Scholarships will receive a $2,000 allowance for tuition/room and board, plus a laptop or tablet (first-time awardees only).
Sophie Malaviya Memorial Scholarship
Candidate must be a young woman, graduating high school senior with cancer diagnosis, or a cancer survivor, and have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Candidates must also be enrolled in a 2- or 4-year undergraduate program or professional/trade school.
Applications are due by May 31, 2023. Candidates will be notified by July 31, 2023 with the status of their application. The application form can be downloaded from silkentwinecharity.org and the completed application can be emailed to [email protected].
One or two scholarships will be awarded for $1,000. Scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient’s school.
Special Love for Children with Cancer (Kay-Moore Scholarship Fund)
Camp Fantastic
1-888-930-2707
To be eligible for this scholarship, the applicant must be or have been a participant of at least one camp-based program sponsored by Special Love, Inc. The student must be currently undergoing treatment or be off treatment for cancer.
Exact award amount not specified
Stephen T. Marchello Scholarship Foundation
Open to high school graduates who plan on attending college, this scholarship provides financial assistance to those who have survived cancer and are also residents of Montana or Colorado. Selection for this award will be based on your high school GPA, SAT/ ACT scores, a reference letter from your doctor, and two letters of recommendation.
Amount varies.
Strong Arm of Georgia Scholarship
Provides a chance for students affected by leukemia to secure a better future. Must be enrolled in an accredited college or university in the U.S. Essay and transcript required. Selection committee determines winner of $1,000 scholarship.
The SAMFund (Surviving and Moving Forward)
617 938-3484
A young adult cancer survivor is considered eligible when he/she is between the ages of 21 and 39 at the time of application, a resident of the United States, and when he/she meets ONE of the following criteria: Completed planned treatment with no evidence of disease; one year following the completion of planned therapy with stable disease; or on long-term hormonal therapy (such as Tamoxifen for breast cancer survivors) or on long-term targeted therapy (such as Gleevec or Herceptin). A “Good Candidate” can demonstrate he/she has financial need as a direct result of his/her cancer experience, has needs that are immediate, and lacks resources/other sources of support.
The SAMFund no longer awards scholarships for undergraduate tuition; however, undergrads who meet the eligibility requirements can apply for grants for other expenses (e.g., medical bills, school books, computers, etc.). Grants provided cover a wide range of post-treatment financial needs including, but not limited to health insurance premiums, rent/mortgage assistance, car payments, insurance, or repairs, continuing education and loans, family-building expenses, gym memberships, and mental health expenses. The average grant amount is typically in the $1,500 – $2,000 range.
The Simon Cancer Foundation: Harvey Simon Memorial Scholarship
954 288 8455
Applicants must be enrolled in a 4-year university or college in the United States. Past scholarship winners of The Simon Cancer Foundation are not eligible to reapply. Applicants must sign an affidavit verifying they have had cancer during their lifetime. Applicants are evaluated according to their unweighted GPA (30%), display of leadership (30%), engagement in extracurricular activities (20%), and their response to an essay question (20%).
Exact award amount not specified
The Susan Fund Scholarship
The Susan Fund provides financial and emotional support to those students facing staggering medical costs associated with cancer treatment in addition to the ever-increasing costs of higher education. Applicants must be a current resident of Fairfield County, Connecticut, have been diagnosed with cancer at some time in one’s life and be planning or attending an accredited post-high school institution of higher learning.
The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults
The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults provides annual awards for college students who are battling, or have overcome, cancer and who display financial need. Applicants must have been 15-39 during active treatment or 15-39 when their parent or sibling was in active treatment.
The Valerie Fund Scholarship
973-761-0422
The Valerie Fund Scholarship Program grants monetary rewards to current and former patients of the Valerie Fund for post-high school graduation educational expenses such as tuition, fees and books. Patients are encouraged to apply for both the general and named scholarship programs. Awards will be reviewed with an emphasis on academic achievement, determination and motivation, community involvement, and financial need.
Scholarships range from $1,000-$10,000+.
Toby Merrill Scholarship
The specific criteria used to select recipients will be a combination of the following:
- Academic performance in high school, requiring a minimum 2.5 GPA in high school
- Athletic awards and level of participation
- Recommendations by references
- Elected positions of leadership or awards received for community involvement
- Financial need based on household income or deceased, ill parents/guardians
- Personal interviews
Financial Award: $9,700 per year renewable for four years if student remains in good academic and citizen standing at the college. If the student is receiving financial aid, please note that accepting a Toby Merrill Scholarship may reduce the aid.
Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Foundation Scholarship
904-543-2599 (Headquarters)
Applicants must have had a cancer diagnosis prior to the age of 21. Applicants must be enrolled, or be planning to enroll, full time in an accredited college or university. Applicants must reside within specific coverage areas in New York, New Jersey, Florida, and Georgia. Applicants must be a permanent resident of one of specified counties in each state.
Annual award of $2,000 yearly for up to four years
Transplant Recipients International Organization (TRIO)
1-800-874-6386
Applicant must be
A solid organ or bone marrow candidate, recipient, donor, or an immediate family member (defined as parent, child, spouse or sibling).
A TRIO member, to join you can go to www.trioweb.org.
Have a GPA of 2.5 or above.
Have financial need and provide a current transcript.
Use scholarship award for continuing education at an accredited college, university or trade/technical school certificate program.
TRIO will be awarding several non-renewable $1,000 scholarships. The award will be sent directly to the institution in the student’s name.
Zip Recruiter
Offers a $3,000 scholarship twice a year to a high school graduate who is eager to pursue a college education. Applicants write an essay about their experience of living with cancer (be it their own diagnosis or that of someone they love) and why this opportunity to go to college with a ZipRecruiter scholarship is so important to the applicant and the family.
The applicants can submit artwork, photographs, or whatever works to further support their interest in obtaining the scholarship. The application can be completed online and sent to richard@ziprecruiter.com.
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