New Jersey Awards Up to $5,000 in Scholarships for Students With Vision Loss

The Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired opened applications for five scholarships worth $1,000 to $5,000. High school seniors can apply. College students of any age who plan to attend a U.S. college or university during the fall 2026 semester can also submit their materials through April 30.

This marks the 20th year for the program, which targets blind, deafblind, and visually impaired students across New Jersey.

"These scholarships offer financial assistance to ensure that individuals with visual impairments can achieve their academic and professional aspirations," Human Services Commissioner Stephen Cha said in a Feb. 24 announcement, according to North Jersey. "Higher education is a gateway to endless possibilities, and it's crucial that everyone, regardless of visual ability, has the chance to explore all that it has to offer."

Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire said the awards do more than cut costs. They recognize accomplishments. "Beyond financial aid, these scholarships recognize and celebrate the remarkable talents and achievements of students with visual impairments," McGuire said.

Five privately funded scholarships will be awarded this year. The Caroline Rose Foster Scholarship for Independence and Self-Determination provides $1,000. It looks at essay responses, recommendations, GPA, and SAT scores. The Nathan & Sally Rogoff Scholarship for Academic Excellence also awards $1,000 and reviews essays, GPA, SAT scores, recommendations, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work.

The Sarah J. Churchill Scholarship for Volunteerism and Support to a Charitable Cause gives $1,000. It focuses on charitable work. The Cathy and Herb Bodensiek Scholarship offers $2,500 for students majoring in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or business administration, while the Mary Louise Buckley Scholarship provides $5,000 for those majoring in health services or communications.

All applicants must have at least a 2.5 GPA. They must be active or eligible CBVI clients. Applications and documents must be submitted online or emailed by April 30 to CBVI.Scholarship@dhs.nj.gov.

Winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony at the Trenton Thunder Ballpark on July 29.

"We are excited to continue this support to the next generation of scholars," said Bernice Davis, executive director of the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired.