Going to college is a monumental time in any young person’s life. It’s the first time they’ll be away from home and surrounded by completely new people. 

They’ll also be completely independent for the first time. This means they’ll need to make their own food, do their laundry, and show up to class on time. It’s a time when people learn about responsibility while having a good time along the way. 

For hard of hearing individuals interested in studying American Sign Language there are scholarships available which can make your time at college less stressful. These ASL scholarships will pay for part of your education expenses. 

For each of these scholarships, you’ll need to meet the requirements. You may also need to write an essay. It’s also important that you turn in all necessary documentation by the deadline. 

Want to learn more about ASL scholarships for hard of hearing individuals? Read on to find out more about these scholarships. 

ASL Scholarships Available to Hard of Hearing Individuals

Getting a college degree requires dedication, good grades, and support. By getting a scholarship you gain support financially which can lessen the stress associated with going to college.

Scholarships are money you never have to pay back unless the requirements dictate otherwise. For example, some scholarships may require you to maintain a certain GPA. Always read the scholarship’s guidelines to know exactly what you need to do to keep your scholarship money.

Explore the following ASL scholarships and start applying for them today. 

1. State Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf

Check in with your state’s Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf for their scholarship opportunities. To qualify for some of these scholarships, you must be a member of the registry. Many of these scholarships will pay for your certification testing fees. 

2.  Gerald “Bummy” Burstein Award

Dr. Burstein was an influential figure in the deaf community. He is known for his expertise in parliamentary procedures. 

This scholarship of $500 or more is awarded to a deaf student and a hearing student. It helps to fund training or testing for students needing financial assistance. 

3. Daniel H. Pokorny Memorial Fund

This scholarship was also created to help future ASL interpreters to pay for their certification testing. For this scholarship, you must submit two letters of recommendations and a letter explaining why you need financial aid. You must also include a short essay about your educational background and work experience. 

Additional requirements must also be met to obtain this scholarship. 

If you don’t meet these requirements, have bad credit, and need help paying for your educational expenses, consider getting bad credit student loans. 

4. Jacob and Iris Wolf Sign Language Interpreting Scholarship

This scholarship is available to students enrolled in the Jacob and Iris Wolf Sign Interpreting certification program. This certificate program is offered at Harper College. Contact their office to learn more or apply online today. 

5.  Arlene Long Education Fund

The Arlene Long Education fund is awarded to individuals seeking continuing education as ASL interpreters and teachers. It was established in 1994 in remembrance of Arlene Long, a founding member of the Deaf-Hearing Communication Centre Interpreter Referral Service. It also includes a scholarship for individuals interested in professional development to improve their skills. 

ASL Scholarships: Are You Ready to Apply?

Applying for ASL scholarships will take time and effort. Make sure to complete all necessary requirements before submitting your application. Double check your application and the scholarship guidelines to make sure everything is in order. 

Want to learn more about the college experience? Check out our blog post to learn more.