Governor’s Coalition

for Youth with Disabilities (GCYD)

Scholarship Program

What is the objective of the scholarship program?

The Governor’s Coalition for Youth with Disabilities (GCYD) recognizes the outstanding achievements of graduating high school seniors with disabilities through awards of financial assistance to further students’ educational and career goals.

Who is eligible to apply?

Candidates must be 2009 graduating students who:

• reside in Connecticut

• have demonstrate responsibility and good character

• plan to attend a post-secondary school or training program

• show promise for a successful career

How are scholarship recipients selected?

High schools will approve and certify each application prior to forwarding all applications and supporting documentation to the GCYD Committee who will review the applications and make final selections.

What is required to apply?

• Obtain an application online from gcyd.org or from the school Guidance Department or special education staff.

• Complete and return the application to the Guidance Department or special education staff for signature.

When is the deadline?

Applications must be postmarked by February 15, 2009.

How much funding is available for scholarships?

The monetary value of each of the three types of awards varies according to the college or university granting the award.

What types of scholarships are available?

A number of one-time scholarships of $500 or more.

Connecticut State University System awards one renewable scholarship at each of its four state universities – Central Connecticut State University, Easter Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University, and Western Connecticut State University. The scholarship is in the amount of $500 per semester, renewable up to eight semesters if renewal criteria is met. To qualify for one of the state university scholarships, students must already be accepted to the university granting the award. Candidates must indicate on their application to the university for which they wish to be considered.

Connecticut Community College System awards on renewable scholarship at each of its 12 area campuses. These scholarships are awarded for both merit and financial need. The award is full tuition and fees and is renewable for three years if specific renewal criteria is met. To qualify for a community college scholarship, the student must complete a FAFSA form and qualify for financial assistance and must be accepted to the community college they have chosen on their scholarship application.

Application Instructions: AI-Word.doc AI-Adobe PDF

Scholarship Application: SA-Word.doc SA-Adobe PDF