The U.S. Department of Education offers the Federal TRIO Programs, targeting students from what it refers to as "disadvantaged backgrounds." This includes students with disabilities, although they are not the sole recipients. These grants help students from middle school through graduate programs.
Applying for grants will take time, but the U.S. Department of Education offers helpful tips that may make the process easier. Check out ed.gov for guidance as to what grants you may be eligible for and what grant programs are accepting applications.
Funding opportunities are also available through more traditional sources such as the federal Pell Grant. While it is open to all students, disabled students should not overlook it as a source of college funding. Pell Grants are distributed based on financial need, cost to attend school, full- or part-time status and whether or not you plan attend for the full academic year.
You will also find grants and scholarship listings for students with disabilities through the government's website at studentaid2.ed.gov.
Women with disabilities can apply for scholarships through the Ethel Louise Armstrong Foundation. The foundation was founded by Margaret A. Slaton, who was disabled by a spinal cord tumor at age 2, and named after Slaton's grandmother. Visit the foundation's website at ela.org.
The Learning Disabilities Association of America offers help to students and their families with a broad range of disabilities from dyslexia to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Visit the foundation's website at ldanatl.org.
Use your state and local governments as means to finding government grants for students with disabilities. Check with your state education agency. Some states also have special education agencies that help disabled residents and their families. These agencies may be able to connect you with grant opportunities designed for students with disabilities.
Local governments can also provide help finding grants even if they don't provide grant funding. Officials can often connect you with charities or organizations that may be sources of grant opportunities.
According to the Association on Higher Education and Disability, there are no specific federally funded programs for disabled students. The group suggests checking with the financial aid office at your school for opportunities for grants and scholarships from regional or charitable groups.
Make sure when searching for information on government grants for students with disabilities that you use reputable sites. Going through federal government websites can help you steer clear of scammers while directing you to honest groups offering grants and scholarships.