2026 Tony Coelho Media Scholarship Survey

The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) is proud to announce that applications for the 2026 Tony Coelho Media Scholarship are now open!

The Tony Coelho Media Scholarship will offer eight (8) scholarships to be used in the fall semester of 2026. High school seniors, undergraduate, and graduate students with disabilities who are pursuing careers in media, communications, or entertainment industries that will be enrolled in college or a university during Fall 2026 are eligible. Each recipient will receive $5,625 to help cover the cost of education at their college or university.

Here is a link to a Google Document version of this application. The link will create a copy for you to use if this online application is not accessible.
Application Deadline: May 29, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. EST.
AAPD’s Selection Committee will review applications and finalists will be invited to interview with select AAPD staff members. Finalists will be contacted to schedule interviews and may request alternative formats and accommodations at that time.

If you have any questions, please visit the AAPD website for more information or email scholarship@aapd.com.

Contact Information:(Required.)

First and Last Name

City/Town

State/Province

ZIP/Postal Code

Country

Email Address

Phone Number

Pronouns

I am a person with a disability.(Required.)

Yes

No

College/University:(Required.)

In the fall semester of 2026, I will be a:(Required.)

Expected Graduation Date:(Required.)

Major:(Required.)

Minor (if applicable):

Have you previously applied for or participated in any of the other AAPD programs? Note that this will not impact your application.(Required.)

AAPD Internship Program (Summer and/or Fall)

Tony Coelho Media Scholarship

Paul G. Hearne Emerging Leaders Award

Fannie Lou Hamer Leadership Program

REV UP Voting Campaign

Disability Mentoring Day

I have not previously applied and/or engaged with AAPD's programs before OR I prefer not to disclose.

Other (please specify)

I would like to join AAPD’s email list (note: this will not impact the decision regarding your application).(Required.)

Yes

No