Applications now open for MDA 2026 college scholarship awards
US students living with MD, other conditions may receive up to $5K
The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has opened applications for its 2026 college scholarship program, which provides financial support for students living with muscular dystrophy or a related neuromuscular disease.
With the program now in its third year, the scholarships are available to students who are pursuing or planning to pursue full-time undergraduate degrees at accredited U.S. educational institutions. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents and be members of MDA, a nonprofit advocacy organization. Students who are not already members will be automatically enrolled at no fee when they apply. Applications are due by March 15.
Patients unsure of whether they have a qualifying diagnosis may reach out to the MDA Resource Center at [email protected] or 800-572-1717.
Selected recipients may receive awards of up to $5,000, based on demonstrated qualities of leadership and commitment to community involvement. Awardees will be notified in early summer, with all scholarship recipients announced publicly in mid-August.
“We’re proud to launch the third year of the MDA College Scholarship Program. Our scholars show us every day why this work matters — they’re pursuing their goals, advocating for access and inclusion on their campuses, and envisioning a future full of opportunity,” Alice Dobosz, executive vice president of community engagement at the MDA, said in a press release from the association.
The scholarship program reflects MDA’s commitment to supporting students with neuromuscular diseases as they pursue higher education and work toward long-term personal and professional success.
“As treatments advance and people with neuromuscular conditions live longer, fuller lives, expanding resources like this program is essential,” Dobosz said. “We’re committed to ensuring students have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.”
College scholarship program supports student leaders
In its first two years, the program awarded more than 20 scholarships and helped build a growing network of students and mentors who share lived experience with neuromuscular disease. In addition to financial support, recipients gain access to resources shaped by community feedback and opportunities to connect with peers, the MDA notes.
“Being recognized as a leader by the MDA scholarship means the world to me, especially in a society where disabled voices are too often overlooked,” said Makayla Adams, a biomedical engineering student at the University of Virginia and a 2025 MDA scholarship recipient.
“It’s an empowering reminder that our leadership is vital and that our achievements deserve visibility and celebration,” Adams said.
University of Cincinnati student Diego Ramirez, also a 2025 recipient, is using the funding he received toward pursuing a major he hopes will help him improve accessibility for people with MD and other conditions.
“This scholarship allows me to continue studying urban planning so I can help make cities more accessible for wheelchair users,” Ramirez said. “It supports both my education and my goal of living independently while working to create inclusive, accessible spaces for everyone in the community.”
Being recognized as a leader by the MDA scholarship means the world to me, especially in a society where disabled voices are too often overlooked. … It’s an empowering reminder that our leadership is vital and that our achievements deserve visibility and celebration.
The MDA college scholarship program is supported by the Numotion Foundation.
“Supporting opportunities that expand access for students with neuromuscular conditions is at the heart of the Numotion Foundation’s mission,” said Mike Swinford, the foundation’s president. “We are honored to continue backing the MDA College Scholarship Program and the remarkable students who demonstrate such strength and leadership. Their futures are full of promise, and we appreciate our partnership with MDA in championing educational pathways.”
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