NEXT for AUTISM builds national programs that enhance the lives of autistic adults. NEXT celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2023. As we look ahead to the next 20 years, NEXT is laser-focused on ensuring a bright future for autistic adults because we believe that everyone deserves to lead fulfilling and productive lives. Will you join us, and be part of what’s next for autism?
NEXT for AUTISM FELLOWS is a national scholarship program for students interested in working with neurodivergent adults. The goal of the scholarship is 1) to provide financial support for students pursuing an undergraduate education, whether just starting at a 2- or 4-year college program, or Direct Support Professionals going back to school, and 2) encourage future, and current, health and human service professionals to choose a rewarding career path working with autistic and neurodivergent adults.
Learn more about NEXT for AUTISM here.
The program is administered by Scholarship America®, the nation’s largest designer and manager of scholarships and other education support programs for corporations, foundations, associations, and individuals. Eligibility for individual programs is determined at the sole discretion of the sponsor and eligible applications are reviewed by Scholarship America’s evaluation team.
Eligibilities for NEXT for AUTISM Fellows:
If selected as a recipient, the student will receive up to a $10,000 award. Up to 20 awards will be granted.
Awards are renewable up to three years or until a bachelor’s degree is earned, whichever occurs first, on the basis of maintaining a minimum 2.7 GPA on a 4.0 scale, enrollment in an eligible field, and proof of direct support work. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Program terms shall specify that NEXT is not obligated to continue the scholarship program in subsequent years, and shall have the right to terminate the Program at the end of any Program year.
Awards may be used for qualified education-related expenses only (tuition and school-related fees).
Awards can only be used for tuition and school-related fees.
All applicants will be notified in July.
Scholarship America processes scholarship payments on behalf of NEXT for AUTISM. Payment is made in early August.
Scholarship recipients are selected on the basis of:
Awardees will be required to provide a copy of their tuition statement or bill for the upcoming academic year prior to receiving the scholarship award.
Selection of finalists is made by Scholarship America. NEXT for AUTISM will select recipients. All applicants agree to accept the decision as final.
*Essay Topic:
How do you anticipate working with adults with intellectual disabilities and autism as an undergraduate will help you achieve your long-term career goals?
As part of your application, you must upload the following:
Your application is not complete unless all required materials are submitted electronically.