Disability Studies is an important and growing academic field that explores disability from social, cultural, political, and rights-based perspectives. It goes beyond medical models to examine how societies view, represent, and include people with disabilities. Students and researchers in this field often focus on accessibility, inclusive education, disability rights law, technology for inclusion, health disparities, and policy advocacy.
However, pursuing higher education in Disability Studies can be expensive, especially for international students. Fortunately, there are several scholarships and fellowships that provide fully funded or near-full funding opportunities for students with disabilities, or for students conducting research in Disability Studies and related areas. These awards cover tuition fees, living stipends, research expenses, and sometimes travel or accommodation costs.
In this article, we highlight the Top 15 Fully Funded Scholarships in Disability Studies. Each entry includes a description and a direct application link to help you explore further. Whether you are a person with a disability aiming to advance your studies, or a student committed to research that improves lives of disabled communities, these scholarships can provide the financial support you need to achieve your goals.
Top 15 Fully Funded Scholarships in Disability Studies
1. Chapman Equity Scholars Fellowship (USA)
Chapman University offers the Equity Scholars Fellowship for its PhD in Education program, including Disability Studies emphasis. This fellowship provides full tuition coverage, a graduate assistantship, and research/travel grants. It is designed to support outstanding candidates committed to equity and inclusion, especially in disability education and advocacy. Successful applicants gain mentorship, professional development, and opportunities to contribute to Chapman’s research projects. With its focus on educational equity, this fellowship is ideal for students who want to pursue advanced research in Disability Studies.
👉 Apply here
2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Canada)
The Vanier CGS is one of Canada’s most prestigious doctoral funding programs, offering C$50,000 per year for three years. While not exclusive to Disability Studies, students can propose disability-related topics within social sciences, humanities, or health research. The award covers tuition, living expenses, and research costs, making it effectively fully funded. Candidates must demonstrate strong academic excellence, leadership, and research potential. For students aiming to study Disability Studies or related areas in Canada, Vanier provides an excellent opportunity.
👉 Apply here
3. AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship (USA)
The American Association on Health and Disability (AAHD) offers this scholarship to students with disabilities pursuing higher education in disability, health, or related fields. Although amounts may vary, it supports tuition and educational expenses, making it an important aid for students committed to disability-related careers. Applicants must provide documentation of disability and demonstrate academic achievement and service to disability communities. While smaller than some awards, it is highly respected and directly aligned with Disability Studies.
👉 Apply here
4. Helen A. Kellar Scholarship (George Mason University, USA)
The Helen A. Kellar Scholarship, offered by George Mason University’s Kellar Institute, supports PhD students focusing on disability research. It covers tuition support, technology, and sometimes travel grants, helping scholars pursue research projects in inclusive education, rehabilitation, and disability policy. The program is dedicated to advancing knowledge and leadership in Disability Studies. By providing funding for academic and professional development, it creates a platform for students to contribute to disability rights and inclusive practices.
👉 Apply here
5. Google Lime Scholarship (Global)
The Google Lime Scholarship supports students with disabilities pursuing degrees in computer science, technology, or related fields. Recipients receive up to USD $10,000 along with access to Google’s mentorship and career development opportunities. While its focus is on tech, it aligns with Disability Studies by empowering disabled students in inclusive technology and accessibility innovation. This scholarship is a great opportunity for those interested in research on assistive technology and inclusive digital solutions.
👉 Apply here
6. Microsoft Disability Scholarship (USA)
The Microsoft Disability Scholarship is awarded to students with disabilities entering college in fields related to technology, engineering, or business. It provides up to USD $5,000 annually, renewable for up to four years. Applicants must demonstrate leadership, a passion for technology, and a commitment to promoting disability inclusion. Though focused on tech, the scholarship connects closely to Disability Studies when projects explore accessibility and inclusive design.
👉 Apply here
7. Snowdon Trust Masters Scholarships (UK)
The Snowdon Trust provides scholarships for students with physical or sensory impairments studying at Master’s level in the UK. It offers up to £30,000, covering fees and living costs. The award supports academic excellence, leadership, and disability advocacy. This program is one of the most comprehensive UK scholarships for students with disabilities, allowing them to pursue postgraduate study and contribute to inclusion and accessibility.
👉 Apply here
8. Social Impact Hub Scholarships for People with Disability (Global)
The Social Impact Hub awards six fully funded scholarships annually to people with moderate or severe disabilities. These scholarships focus on leadership and capacity building, giving recipients access to training programs, mentorship, and global networking. While not degree-specific, it complements Disability Studies by supporting students committed to leadership in disability inclusion and social change.
👉 Apply here
9. Anonymous Hope Fund – Scholarship for Students with Disabilities (Global)
This scholarship, listed on MastersPortal, provides grants ranging from USD $100 to $3,000 for students with disabilities. Although amounts may not fully cover costs, they can be combined with other funding to create full support. The scholarship emphasizes inclusivity in education, ensuring students with disabilities can pursue higher studies, including Disability Studies. It is open to international students, making it accessible for applicants worldwide.
👉 Apply here
10. University of Westminster Undergraduate Disability Scholarship (UK)
The University of Westminster offers scholarships to undergraduate students with documented disabilities. The award is worth £2,500 annually toward living expenses, easing the financial burden of higher education. While not always covering full tuition, it provides essential support for students studying disability or related fields. It also demonstrates the university’s strong commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in higher education.
👉 Apply here
11. Harlan Hahn Endowment Fund Grants (USA)
The Harlan Hahn Fund, based at the University of Washington, supports projects by students in Disability Studies. Grants are awarded for research, conferences, and initiatives that promote disability inclusion. While not always full tuition, it supplements other funding and provides targeted support for disability-related projects. It is highly respected within the Disability Studies community.
👉 Apply here
12. Johnson Scholarship Program (Florida, USA)
The Johnson Scholarship supports students with disabilities enrolled at Florida state universities. It helps cover tuition and living expenses, ensuring access to higher education. This program is especially valuable for students pursuing Disability Studies, inclusive education, or health programs in Florida. By reducing financial barriers, the scholarship helps students focus on their academic and advocacy goals.
👉 Apply here
13. Matthew Goldstein Scholarship (CUNY, USA)
The Matthew Goldstein Scholarship is designed for students with disabilities studying at City University of New York (CUNY). It provides financial assistance to support tuition and academic expenses. This scholarship reflects CUNY’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, empowering students to pursue degrees, including Disability Studies, without financial barriers.
👉 Apply here
14. University of Illinois Chicago Disability Scholarships (USA)
UIC maintains a database of external scholarships for students with disabilities, including opportunities for those studying health, policy, or disability-related fields. Many of these awards cover significant portions of tuition and living expenses. This central resource helps students identify and apply for scholarships that match their goals in Disability Studies.
👉 Apply here
15. Fully Funded PhD Studentships in Disability Studies (UK/EU)
Several UK and EU universities offer fully funded PhD studentships in Disability Studies through the Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC) or Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC). These awards cover tuition and living stipends for up to 3–4 years. Students propose a disability-focused project under the supervision of faculty. This is one of the strongest pathways for pursuing fully funded doctoral research in Disability Studies.
👉 Apply here
FAQs
Q1: Are there fully funded scholarships specifically for Disability Studies?
Yes, but they are rare. Many programs support students with disabilities or allow disability-related research in broader social science, education, or health scholarships.
Q2: Do I need to be a person with disability to apply?
Not always. Some scholarships fund students researching Disability Studies, regardless of personal disability status. Others are specifically for students with disabilities.
Q3: Can I combine multiple scholarships?
Yes. Many students combine smaller disability grants with larger scholarships to create a full funding package.
Q4: What documents are required?
Most require transcripts, a personal statement or research proposal, recommendation letters, and proof of disability (if applicable).
Q5: Which countries are best for Disability Studies scholarships?
The USA, UK, and Canada have the widest range of disability-focused scholarships and research opportunities.
Conclusion
Disability Studies is a vital academic field shaping policies, advocacy, and inclusive practices worldwide. Financial support is essential for students to pursue this path, and the scholarships listed above provide strong opportunities. From fully funded PhD fellowships to specialized scholarships for students with disabilities, these programs reduce barriers and create pathways to success. By applying strategically, combining opportunities, and highlighting your passion for disability inclusion, you can secure the funding needed to make a meaningful impact in this growing discipline.
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