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Muscular Dystrophy Association Invites Applications for 2026 College Scholarships Supporting Students Living with Neuromuscular Conditions

MDA remains committed to uplifting future leaders by expanding higher education opportunities for students living with neuromuscular diseases.

New York, Monday, January 12, 2026 – The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) announced today that applications are officially open for the third year of the MDA College Scholarship Program. This opportunity supports students living with neuromuscular diseases who are currently pursuing or preparing to pursue undergraduate studies at an accredited college or university. Eligible students are encouraged to apply at MDA.org/Scholarship. The deadline for applications is March 15, 2026.

MDA will award merit-based scholarships of up to $5,000 per student. Awards support students who demonstrate qualities of leadership and commitment to community engagement. Students who have previously received an MDA College Scholarship are also eligible to reapply. The program provides essential financial support and empowers young adults to build academic, professional, and personal skills that help pave the way for future success.

Recipients will be notified in early summer, with public announcements to follow in mid-August. The MDA College Scholarship Program highlights the organization’s dedication to advancing the futures of students living with neuromuscular disease, supporting access to higher education, and promoting long-term personal and professional growth.

Eligibility and Criteria for MDA College Scholarship
Students living with a neuromuscular disease who are attending, or applying to attend, a qualified educational institution as an undergraduate, are eligible to apply.

All applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Diagnosed by a physician as having a neuromuscular disease supported by MDA
  • Please reach out to the MDA Resource Center at ResourceCenter@mdausa.org or 800-572-1717 if you are unsure if you have a qualifying diagnosis
• US Citizen or a legal and permanent resident of the US
• Will be attending an accredited educational institution that has a financial aid office
• Will be a full-time, undergraduate student during the scholarship award year

All applicants must be a member of MDA to be considered in the MDA College Scholarship program. By completing the application, applicants will automatically join if they are not a member already. There is no fee associated with MDA membership. For more information, please visit mda.org/join-mda. Review the FAQ for more information here.

A Community of Support and Empowerment
In its first two years, the MDA College Scholarship Program supported more than 20 scholarships, and its long-term vision is to build a vibrant network of peers and mentors who share the lived experience of neuromuscular disease. In addition to financial assistance, scholars benefit from supplemental resources shaped directly by community feedback and joining a community where they can share insights and support each other.

Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
“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. As treatments advance and people with neuromuscular conditions live longer, fuller lives, expanding resources like this program is essential. We’re committed to ensuring students have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive,” said Alicia Dobosz, EVP, Community Engagement at the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Hear from 2025 MDA Scholarship Recipients
Makayla Adams, University of Virginia, Major: Biomedical Engineering
“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.”

Diego Ramirez, University of Cincinnati, Major: Urban Planning
“This scholarship allows me to continue studying Urban Planning so I can help make cities more accessible for wheelchair users. It supports both my education and my goal of living independently while working to create inclusive, accessible spaces for everyone in the community.”

A Partnership for Progress
The MDA College Scholarship Program is made possible through the generosity and ongoing support of 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, President of the Numotion Foundation. “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.

Media contact press@mdausa.org.

About Muscular Dystrophy Association

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has been at the center of progress for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular conditions for 75 years. We unite researchers, clinicians, advocates, and families to speed the pace of discovery, improve access to expert care, and ensure inclusion in every aspect of life. Our mission is simple: give the people we serve the tools and opportunities to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org. Follow MDA on social media on Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, Bluesky, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.