Dyslexia/Auditory Processing Disorder Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Gemm Learning
Description
**What the scholarship is**
The Gemm Learning Dyslexia/APD Scholarship recognizes undergraduate students who have dyslexia and/or auditory processing disorder and who are enrolled at a college or university in the United States or Canada. It rewards the persistence and character required to overcome learning challenges and succeed in higher education. Applicants are asked to share a personal essay that gives insight into living with dyslexia or auditory processing disorder.
Key takeaways:
- For undergraduate students with dyslexia and/or auditory processing disorder.
- Available to students attending colleges or universities in the US or Canada.
- Selection is based on a personal essay describing lived experience and resilience.
Eligibility
**Who may apply**
Eligible applicants must be current undergraduate college/university students enrolled in the US or Canada. Students who are deferring enrollment and high school seniors are not eligible. Proof of active enrollment is required as part of the submission.
Key takeaways:
- Must be an enrolled undergraduate student at a US or Canadian college/university.
- Deferring students and high school seniors are excluded.
- Enrollment documentation is mandatory.
Application Requirements
**Essay and documentation**
Submit a 500–650 word essay on one of the two topics: “Living With Dyslexia” or “Living With Auditory Processing Disorder.” Attach the essay as a Word or PDF file (no links). Include proof of college enrollment — acceptable items are a dated class schedule, student ID, tuition payment receipt, or a formal school letter confirming fall enrollment; acceptance letters do not count. Essays must include the applicant’s full name on the document; submissions without a name will not be considered.
Key takeaways:
- Essay length: 500–650 words; topics limited to the two specified prompts.
- File formats accepted: Word (.doc/.docx) or PDF only; no links.
- Provide acceptable proof of enrollment; acceptance letters are not valid.
How to Submit
**Submission process**
There is no formal online application form. Email your materials to scholarships@gemmlearning.com with both your essay file and proof of enrollment attached. Do not submit links; attach both files directly. If you have questions about the process, contact the same email address for assistance.
Key takeaways:
- No online form — submissions are by email only to scholarships@gemmlearning.com.
- Attach both the essay and enrollment proof as files (Word or PDF).
- Use the contact email for any application questions.
Award Value and Publication
**Scholarship prize and essay use**
The scholarship award is $1,000, which will be paid directly to the recipient’s learning institution. In addition to the cash award, the winning essay will be published on the Gemm Learning blog. By submitting your essay and proof of enrollment, you agree that Gemm Learning may publish your essay and your full name on its website/blog, whether you win or not.
Key takeaways:
- Award amount: $1,000, paid to the recipient’s institution.
- Winning essay will be featured on the Gemm Learning blog.
- Submission grants Gemm Learning permission to publish your essay and name.
Timeline and Notification
**Key dates and winner notification**
Applications for the 2026 Dyslexia/APD Scholarship begin being accepted on September 1, 2026. All essays and proof of enrollment must be submitted no later than 11:59 PM EST on the posted deadline. The scholarship will be awarded by November 15, 2026 and the result posted on the scholarship page; the recipient also will be contacted by email. The winner must respond within three (3) days of email notification or the scholarship may be forfeited; payment will be made to the school in December 2026.
Key takeaways:
- Applications open: September 1, 2026 — submit by the posted deadline (11:59 PM EST).
- Winner announced by November 15, 2026 and contacted by email.
- Winner must respond within 3 days; funds disbursed to the institution in December 2026.
History of the Award
**Origins and purpose**
Gemm Learning has provided this undergraduate scholarship since 2013 to support students managing dyslexia and auditory processing disorder. The award was created to acknowledge the persistence and character required to reach and succeed in college despite learning struggles. Over time the scholarship has continued to highlight student stories and raise awareness about living with learning differences.
Key takeaways:
- Established in 2013 by Gemm Learning.
- Created to honor persistence in students with dyslexia/APD.
- Emphasizes storytelling and awareness alongside financial support.