Ruby's Rainbow is a 501(c)(3) non-profit org.

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Scholarship Application

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The 2025 Scholarship Application Window Is Now Closed! 2026 Applications Will Open January 1!

Are you a college student with Down syndrome? Apply for a Ruby’s Rainbow Scholarship and you could receive between $1,000 and $10,000 for your academic year!

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How to Create a Rockin’ Scholarship Application

Check out our video – it covers the application process, including our top tips and tricks to help you submit an application that shows off who you are, celebrates your achievements, and shares your dreams for your future!

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What We Look for in Your Application

Check out our Scoring Rubrics to see how your Ruby’s Rainbow scholarship application will be evaluated!

Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Your Goals and Dreams?

We’re on a mission to help as many college students with Down syndrome as possible to achieve their goals of higher education and independence! Ruby’s Rainbow Scholarships range from $1,000 to $10,000 and must be utilized in full within one academic year.

Got questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us through our website or email Jessica@rubysrainbow.org!

We absolutely LOVE learning about all the incredible things students with Down syndrome across the country are doing!! We can’t wait to hear from and learn more about YOU!

Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Ruby’s Rainbow Scholarship?

You can apply for a Ruby’s Rainbow Scholarship if you:

✅ Have Down syndrome

✅ Are at least 18 years old, or will turn 18 by August 1 of the application year

✅ Plan to enroll or continue enrollment in a post-secondary course or program that will enhance your life through employment skills, independent living or life skills, or interest in another area (see more information under “Scholarship Expense Criteria” below)

✅ Can share a copy of your high school diploma or certificate of completion, your latest high school transcript (if you’re graduating this spring), or proof of enrollment in a post-secondary program

If you’ve already received a Ruby’s Rainbow scholarship award in the past, you can apply for another scholarship as soon as the following year, as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements!

Scholarship Expense Criteria – How Scholarship Funds Must Be Used:

  • Ruby’s Rainbow Scholarship funds must be applied toward tuition at a U.S.-based university, community college, or post-secondary institution. This can include institutes of technology, vocational schools, and trade schools; this can also include certificate, degree, and non-degree programs.
  • Scholarship funds can be used for housing, food, or transportation ONLY if these costs are included in the tuition fee. We cannot make separate payments to cover these accommodations.
  • Up to 10% of scholarship funds awarded may be used for textbooks and other coursework-related supplies, if needed.
  • Enrichment classes in the arts qualify for funding if they are certified programs. Examples of qualifying enrichment classes include painting or film production classes or workshops. Please email Liz@rubysrainbow.org with any questions regarding qualifying enrichment classes. Currently, classes based on physical activities, such as swimming, horseback riding, or dance classes, don’t qualify for funding.

Notification:

After submitting your application, expect an email confirming receipt. If you don’t receive one, please email liz@rubysrainbow.org to check that we received your application.

Following the application deadline and scholarship evaluations, you’ll be notified via email or letter about your scholarship status for this year. We aim to notify all applicants by early June of each application year.

Returning Rockin’ Recipients

If you are planning to apply for another Ruby’s Rainbow Scholarship but you will have a remaining balance from your previous award going into the next fall semester, please contact Admin@RubysRainbow.org before applying for a new scholarship. Depending on the size of your remaining balance, you may not be eligible for a new scholarship.

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Going for Your College Dreams?

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about the application process? Please check out our FAQs below!

Rockin’ Recipients

Meet our Rockin’ Recipients, and see what they’re up to!

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