Lighthouse Guild Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by Lighthouse Guild
We believe financial barriers should not prevent people who are blind or have low vision from pursuing higher education. To support this, Lighthouse Guild awards merit-based scholarships to students with vision loss who are preparing to begin college or graduate study.
Overview
- Each year we award up to 20 scholarships to exceptional U.S. high school students who are legally blind and entering college as freshmen.
- We also award at least one scholarship annually to a qualified graduate student (for Master’s, PhD, MD, JD, or other post-baccalaureate programs).
- Scholarship funds are unrestricted and may be applied to tuition, room and board, books and supplies, travel, or other education-related expenses.
- If you have a strong academic record and demonstrated merit, consider applying. Application deadline: February 28, 2026.
Named awards
- Since 2023, one undergraduate or graduate recipient each year will receive the Dr. Neil S. Patel Memorial Scholarship in recognition of Dr. Patel’s commitment to hard work, honor, and service to under-served populations.
- Beginning in 2025, one recipient annually will be selected for the Daniel M. Callahan Memorial Scholarship, honoring Dan Callahan’s leadership and advocacy for people with vision loss.
Who may apply
- High school seniors who are legally blind and will be incoming college freshmen.
- Current college students who are applying to or already enrolled in graduate or other post-baccalaureate programs (Master’s, PhD, MD, JD, etc.).
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents.
Institution requirements
- The college or university you plan to attend must be accredited by an agency recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
- The institution’s admissions policies must be non-denominational and open to applicants of any religion, faith, or belief.
Application materials (required)
- Proof of legal blindness: a statement from a state rehabilitation agency, an ophthalmologist, or an optometrist.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency: a passport, birth certificate, naturalization papers, or other official proof of legal residency.
- Academic transcripts to document scholastic achievement.
- Three letters of recommendation: two should address your academic abilities. Each recommendation must include the writer’s name, mailing address, and telephone number.
- Personal statement (500 words or fewer): describe your inspirations, passions, goals, and dreams related to education, career, and personal life.
Submit your completed application by February 28, 2026.