Scholarships

Illinois Association for Education and Rehabilitation 

of the Blind and Visually Impaired 

2026 Scholarship Application

Every year, IAER awards two $750 scholarships for students holding junior or senior, graduate, or postgraduate status. Scholarship candidates must be enrolled in classes leading to certification areas in the field of education or rehabilitation of persons who are blind or visually impaired. The applicant must reside and attend school in the state of Illinois. 

Application Requirements: 

1. Completed application form 

2. Most recent transcripts (unofficial transcripts are accepted) 

3. One letter of recommendation from a professional in the field of low vision and blindness

4. A 200-word essay on “Why I have chosen to enter or continue my education in the field of education/ rehabilitation for persons who are blind or visually impaired.” 

Application Deadline: January 16th, 2026

Scholarship Awarded: February, 12th 2026 at IAER Conference 

Click for application

Please have the application, essay, transcript, and letter of recommendation sent to: 

IAER Scholarship Chair, Amanda Hetzel at amanda.hetzel@second-sense.org