Diabetes Scholarships: Type, School Stage and Athletics Can Matter

2 min readPublished Last updated

Written by Daniel Mercer Author
Reviewed by Julian Reed Reviewer
Fact checked by Maya Bennett Fact-checker

In short

A diabetes-related scholarship can require a specific diagnosis history, applicant stage or activity. Do not assume every program accepts every form of diabetes or students already in college.

The Scott and Kim Verplank Foundation’s readable page lists a childhood Type 1 diagnosis, high school senior status, U.S. citizenship, GPA above 3.0 and active participation on an organized athletic team. Official scholarship page

Screen the verified lead

ItemPublished terms
ApplicationsOpen January 1, 2027; due April 15, 2027 for fall 2027
BenefitUp to $10,000 annually for tuition, fees and books
Continuing supportUp to four years, subject to renewal rules
ExclusionStudents already in college are not eligible for initial application

January 1 is future as of October 14, 2026. This guide does not label the application open now.

The provider also states a diabetes-management condition. Ask what documentation it requests rather than interpreting the wording as medical advice.

This article does not recommend a treatment, exercise or dietary change, diagnose diabetes or advise altering care to pursue an award. Clinical questions belong with an appropriate health professional.

An original screening example

Imagine a continuing college student and a high school senior with different diabetes histories. The Verplank initial-award rules may exclude one before any essay is considered. Each should check type, timing and stage rather than relying on a broad diabetes directory.

The example determines no applicant’s medical or scholarship eligibility.

Document athletics honestly

Use the actual organized-team involvement and answer the provider’s questions. Do not inflate recreational exercise into team membership or imply a competitive record you do not have.

If a requirement is unclear, contact the foundation before requesting endorsements.

Keep application and renewal separate

The provider says recipients receive activation and renewal information after selection. Do not multiply the maximum annual amount across four years as guaranteed funding.

Save the submission confirmation and send only requested materials; the foundation says unsolicited information is not considered.

Next action

Screen the complete criteria, prepare the requested evidence and use the current application after its announced opening. Search broader funding separately if this specific route does not fit.

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