NCSA Student Scholarship Application

Scholarship Qualifications

Scholarships from the Dr. R. Orin Cornett Scholarship Fund are NOT awarded based on financial need, hearing levels, or use of a cochlear implant. Scholarships ARE awarded based on the following criteria:

1. The candidate has used/uses Cued Speech as their primary mode of communication.
2. NCSA’s mission, vision and goals (see Where We Stand) have been and will continue to be represented by the candidate.
3. The candidate will be an advocate for the use of Cued Speech for language, learning, and literacy.
4. Every application will be considered on the basis of their accomplishments including how they have represented the mission of NCSA and the use of Cued Speech. All candidates are encouraged to apply.
5. Carol Shuler Scholarship candidates must reside in the West Region (Arizona, Alaska, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah or Washington).

Application Instructions

1. Complete the student application in its entirety. Review all instructions carefully.
   • This application includes three essay prompts that you must respond to:
     • At what age were you introduced to Cued Speech and how did/do you use it in your life?
     • Write a short biography of your life and future plans, including how you benefited from the use of Cued Speech. (This essay should be no more than 200 words.)
     • Describe a personal experience that illustrates how Cued Speech increases access to communication in personal, educational, and/or social settings. Based on this personal experience, how does it encourage you to promote Cued Speech and the NCSA’s stated goals of education, advocacy, and service (see Where We Stand)? (This essay should be no more than 400 words.)
   • This application requires you to upload/share the following documents:
     • Transcript from current academic institution
     • Audiogram
     • Headshot
2. Share the letter of reference link with those who will be providing your references. These letters of references must be written by two different people who know you well and can testify to how the use of Cued Speech benefited you. (Family members may not provide letters of reference.) Give them enough time to review the requirements and write their reference letter.
3. Submit the completed application form. People submitting a letter of reference on your behalf must use the Letter of Reference form.

The deadline to submit applications and letters of reference is April 30, 2025. Applicants will be notified in May.

If you have any questions or issues, please email us.

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Complete Student Application and Required Documents

This form is for students submitting an application for a scholarship.

Link to Student Application

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Complete Letter of Reference

This form is for people submitting a letter of reference on behalf of a student applying for a scholarship.

Link to Letter of Reference form