Financial Resources
Federal Aid
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form is an application for federal student aid. If you have an intellectual disability and are applying to an inclusive postsecondary education program, you may receive the following funding.
Federal Pell Grant:
Awards vary based on need, but the maximum amount set as of March 2024 at $7, 395
Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG):
Awards can vary from $100-$4,000
Federal Work-Study Program:
This program provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. At least minimum wage will be earned, but more can be earned depending on financial need and funding available
State Aid
Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP) Scholarship:
South Carolina residents automatically qualify for a comprehensive transition program (CTP) scholarship in the amount of at least $2,500 per semester and not to exceed $10,000 per academic year when applying to IPSE programs in the state. In addition, students that qualify for a need-based CTP grant based on their FAFSA can be awarded up to a maximum amount of $10,000 per academic year.
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR):
Consumers are eligible for tuition and related support(s). Families should discuss options with their VR offices or transition specialist for specific details. Awards are not for a specific amount and are based on individual financial need.
NOTE: These numbers are subject to change annually
External Scholarships
Students with intellectual disability can apply for disability-specific national scholarships to help offset the cost of college. Some of these organizations and opportunities are listed below:
Additional Resources
Palmetto ABLE
Palmetto ABLE is South Carolina’s ABLE savings program. Information about the beneficiary, the qualifying disability, and how the account will be funded is collected to complete the setup and customization of a savings account tailored to the financial goals and future you wish for your child with a disability. Funds in the account can be used for expenses related to education, independent living, employment, assistive technology, etc.
ABLE National Resource Center
An ABLE account will, with private savings, “secure funding for disabilityrelated expenses on behalf of designated beneficiaries with disabilities that will supplement, but not supplant, benefits provided through private insurance, Medicaid, SSI, the beneficiary’s employment and other sources.”