Scholarship Opportunity

The Access Scholarship

Offered by Maine Administrators of Services for Children with Disabilities (MADSEC)

The Access Scholarship supports individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and pursuing higher education, students preparing for careers in deaf education, and individuals enrolled in approved interpreting certification programs. The award helps recipients continue their education or professional certification related to deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.

EssayNot required
RenewableNo
Grade LevelCollege Freshman, College Sophomore, College Junior, College Senior, Graduate Student, Adult Learner

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

2026-2027 Scholarship Cycle

OpensSeptember 29, 2025
DeadlineApril 30, 2026

Eligibility

  • Have successfully earned a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Be deaf or hard of hearing and enrolled in a higher education institution, or
  • Be enrolled in a higher education institution or course related to deaf education, or
  • Be enrolled in an approved interpreting certification program.

Requirements

  • Submit a cover letter explaining how the scholarship will assist in pursuing professional goals.
  • Provide a 100- to 150-word applicant profile.
  • Submit a completed resume or curriculum vitae with an active email address.
  • Provide three signed letters of reference or nomination that include each reference's current job title.
  • Submit an official high school transcript or equivalent diploma with an explanation of the grading system.
  • Provide a current college transcript with an explanation of the grading system when applicable.

How to Apply

  1. 1Prepare the complete Access Scholarship application packet.
  2. 2Write a cover letter explaining how the scholarship will support your professional goals.
  3. 3Prepare the required applicant profile and resume or curriculum vitae.
  4. 4Gather three signed letters of reference or nomination.
  5. 5Obtain the required academic transcripts.
  6. 6Submit the complete application packet electronically to MADSEC by the annual deadline.