Can I Go to College for Free if My Parent Is Disabled?

Attending college can be a significant financial burden, but for students with disabled parents, there are unique financial aid opportunities that can help cover or reduce tuition costs. These programs vary by state, institution, and individual circumstances, but they can offer substantial relief for families where a parent's disability limits their financial resources.

While going to college for free can be challenging, various scholarships, grants, and state-level initiatives can assist students in these situations. Below, we discuss several different avenues you can use to pay for your college degree as a child of a disabled parent.

Getting Free College When Your Parent Is Disabled

The federal government, along with private institutions and charities, have set up financial aid programs to help you go to college as a child of a disabled parent. Check out each of the ways you can pay for college below.

Federal and State Programs for Students with Disabled Parents

One of the main avenues for financial support for students with disabled parents is federal financial aid. Programs like the Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) are available to all students based on financial need, and having a parent with a disability can increase eligibility.

Be sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) since it assesses your eligibility for these programs.

In addition to federal aid, many states offer tuition assistance programs targeted at students with disabled parents. For instance, some states provide tuition waivers at public colleges and universities for students whose parents are disabled veterans.

These state-level benefits can vary greatly, so it's important to check with your state's Department of Education or Veterans Affairs office to explore available options.

Social Security Benefits and Education

If a parent is disabled and receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), dependent children may be eligible for benefits as well. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides financial assistance to children under 18, or up to 19 if still enrolled in high school, whose parents are receiving SSDI. While this support is not directly tied to covering college expenses, it can alleviate financial strain and help cover tuition or living costs.

Some students may be eligible for further benefits if their parent's disability stems from military service. The Survivor and Dependents Educational Assistance (DEA) program, managed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, offers financial support to children of veterans who have been disabled or died due to service-related injuries. This program can cover tuition, fees, and other educational expenses, providing significant relief for college-bound students.

Scholarships for Students with Disabled Parents

Scholarships specifically for students with disabled parents can be an excellent way to offset the cost of college. Many foundations, nonprofit organizations, and institutions recognize the unique challenges these students face and offer dedicated funding opportunities.

For example, the MaryEllen Locher Foundation Scholarship assists children of breast cancer survivors and victims in pursuing their education.

The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation offers scholarships to children of disabled or deceased military personnel, helping them pursue a college education. This scholarship is particularly relevant for students whose parents were disabled in the line of duty.

Another key scholarship is the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) Scholarship, which supports children and spouses of veterans who have been paralyzed due to their service. This scholarship covers a wide range of educational costs, including tuition, fees, and supplies.

The American Legion Legacy Scholarship offers financial aid to students whose parents were disabled or killed in military service, providing up to $20,000 for college expenses.

Learn more: Tips for Using VA Disability Benefits as a Dependent

Institutional Aid and Support

Many colleges and universities provide their own financial aid packages specifically for students with parents who are disabled. These institutional grants can be especially helpful if federal or state aid is insufficient to cover the cost of tuition. Additionally, some schools offer work-study programs or tuition discounts for students in financial need due to a parent's disability.

It's crucial to talk to the financial aid office at the college you plan to attend to see if they offer any special programs or assistance. In some cases, schools may even offer need-based scholarships that aren't specifically advertised but are available for students who provide documentation of their parent's disability.

Application Process and Tips

To increase your chances of receiving financial aid, start by filling out the FAFSA as early as possible. This will give you access to a variety of federal, state, and institutional aid programs. Be sure to provide accurate information about your parent's disability and any associated financial challenges.

Next, research state-specific programs and scholarships designed for students with disabled parents. Some states have unique opportunities that are not widely advertised, so checking with your state's department of education can be crucial.

Last, reach out to the financial aid office at your desired college. Many schools have additional aid opportunities for students who demonstrate financial need, including those with disabled parents. College counselors can also guide you through the process of applying for these programs, ensuring you don't miss any critical deadlines or paperwork.

FAQs About Going to College if Your Parent Is Disabled

To learn more about how you can reduce the cost of attending college, read through the frequently asked questions below.

What Documentation Will I Need To Apply for Financial Aid if My Parent Is Disabled?

When applying for financial aid, you will likely need to provide documentation of your parent's disability, such as proof of SSDI benefits or VA disability status. You may also need to submit tax returns and other financial documents through the FAFSA application to determine your eligibility for aid programs.

Are There Scholarships Specifically for Children of Disabled Veterans?

Yes, there are several scholarships specifically for children of disabled veterans. For instance, the Folds of Honor Scholarship offers financial aid to dependents of veterans who were disabled or killed in service. This scholarship can be applied to tuition, housing, and books at accredited institutions.

Also, the Military Order of the Purple Heart Scholarship provides funding for children of veterans who have been awarded the Purple Heart, a distinction often given to those injured in combat.

Can I Receive Financial Aid if My Parent's Disability Is Because of a Non-Military-Related Injury or Illness?

Yes, many scholarships and grants are available for students whose parents have non-military-related disabilities. Programs like the Rise Scholarship Foundation and Bloomingdale's Family Scholarship offer financial aid to students whose parents are disabled due to accidents, chronic illness, or other conditions unrelated to military service.

These scholarships typically focus on students who demonstrate financial need, academic achievement, and community involvement, regardless of how their parent became disabled.

Attend College for Free

To learn more about specific tuition assistance programs, reach out to the colleges and universities highlighted on Learn.org. Their financial aid offices can help you plan for college without going into debt.