College grants for cancer survivors are very important because they encourage students who have survived from cancer to continue their education. Cancer is one of the most fearsome diseases, and it often leads to major shock and devastating effect for both the student and their family.
There are three major aspects of the diagnosis. First, the cancer diagnosis put a heavy load to the mental condition of the student. Second, the cancer treatment requires a lot of effort from the student’s body. Last but not least, the cancer treatment is long and costly, which often leads to a financial catastrophe.
It is no longer a secret that college education in the United States is expensive. Therefore, many cancer-diagnosed students decide to drop out of the college and give up their college degree pursuit to avoid further financial burden to the family.
That said, continuing college education have some degree of psychological benefit to the student diagnosed with cancer. It can affect the speed of the recovery. Therefore, there are many college grants for cancer survivors available in the United States. Below are some of them:
College Grants for Cancer Survivors
The first and foremost college grant that these students should pursue would be the Federal Pell Grant. This need-based grant is very friendly towards students who are with some serious health problem, including cancer. This is a need-based grant program, and the amount of money each awardee receives may differ depending on the financial need of each person.
The Pell grant is often as the opening gate for other grants. Typically, those who have received Pell grant have a big chance in getting other grants. There’s also the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), which is an additional grant from the government provided for those who are qualified for the Pell grant but still need additional financial assistance.
Aside of the government grants, there are many other private-funded grants available for cancer patients and survivors. We highly recommend you to find organizations and foundations that are related to the specific type of cancer you’re having. If a student is diagnosed or have just survived breast cancer, it would be best to prioritize the application’s submission to organizations that support breast cancer patients and families. Below are some possible sources of grants:
Cancer for College
Founded more than 20 years ago, the organization offers several grants and scholarships available for cancer patients and survivors. The award amount differs for each of the students, and since its main office is at California, they prioritize the awardees from that area. The 2015 Cancer for College scholarship application period is now closed, next application cycle will begin October 1, 2015.
The Cancer Survivors Fund
http://www.cancersurvivorsfund.org/
This foundation provides four annual scholarships for cancer survivors and patients. Additional requirements include enrollment in an accredited college, submit a complete medical history and an essay about your experience in dealing with cancer.
PAF Scholarship for Survivors
Administered by the Patient Advocate Foundation, the program can help students who have suffered from a life-threatening disease, including cancer. Because this is a scholarship, the foundation selects the winners based on the grades. You are also required to submit two letter of recommendation, full medical history, and agreed to complete 20 hours of community service each year.
Beyond the Cure Ambassador Scholarship
Beyond the Cure Ambassador scholarship offers support to childhood brain cancer survivors under 25. If diagnosed before 18, you may be eligible for one of the 58 awards valued at $3,500 each. The scholarship is for high school seniors, college, and graduate students. The deadline for applications is in April 2025. The fund is from the National Children’s Cancer Society, with the commitment to help families facing childhood cancer.
To qualify, you need to be accepted into a postsecondary institution for the upcoming fall semester. The scholarship assists in achieving academic and professional goals. Application requires an online submission along with an essay and academic transcript. If you’re a survivor with a passion for pursuing your dreams, consider applying for this scholarship opportunity.
Jennifer Casey Alderman Legacy Scholarship
The Jennifer Casey Alderman Legacy Scholarship offers a single award worth $10,000 for college students. The scholarship aims to support young adults who have experienced the loss of a parent due to metastatic breast cancer or are facing financial challenges because of a parent currently battling this disease. Eligible applicants should reside in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, or Tennessee.
To apply, candidates must submit a written essay on a topic of their choice, limited to five pages. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of eligibility, such as an obituary, a copy of the death certificate, or a letter from the parents’ medical oncologist. You can send the Applications by mail to Twisted Pink or send it via email at info@twistedpink.org with the subject line “Jennifer Casey Alderman Legacy Scholarship Award.”
Twisted Pink, the organization behind the scholarship, has been advocating for better access to care for individuals with metastatic breast cancer since 2014. They have contributed over $3 million to support research in this field.
Eligibility for the scholarship requires students to be enrolled in college, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and have a relative who has battled cancer. If you meet these criteria and reside in the specified states, consider applying for this scholarship opportunity.
Han C. Choi Scholarship
The Han C. Choi Scholarship offers a single award of $5,000 for graduate students. Specifically, it targets 1L or 2L law students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, strong leadership skills, a dedication to volunteerism, and a commitment to mentoring others. This scholarship honors the legacy of Han C. Choi, a remarkable individual known for his trailblazing spirit, mentorship, and leadership qualities, especially in the face of challenges.
Applicants with cancer, either as survivors themselves or as family members of survivors or victims, will receive special consideration. To apply, candidates need to submit two recommendation letters. Additionally, while not mandatory, including a FAFSA Form or Financial Need Analysis is optional.
The NAPABA Law Foundation administers this scholarship, aiming to educate and support Asian Pacific Americans and their communities. For over two decades, the foundation has awarded scholarships to law students and backed recent graduates pursuing public interest work within the Asian Pacific American community.
Eligibility for this scholarship is open to graduate students studying law. If you meet these criteria and have a connection to cancer, either as a survivor or through a family member’s experience, consider applying for this opportunity for your achievements and contribute to the AAPI community.
There are still many other chances of college grants for cancer survivors. Don’t give up and keep up the hope!
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