Study in USA | Elmhurst University Project RISE Scholarship...

Study in USA | Elmhurst University Project RISE Scholarship 2028

Posted 2026-05-21 10:00:06

Study in USA | Elmhurst University Project RISE Scholarship 2028

The newly announced Project RISE Scholarship at Elmhurst University is emerging as a specialized graduate funding pathway for future special educators, occupational therapists, and speech language pathologists. These professionals plan to work with students with disabilities in U.S. schools. A federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education supports this initiative. The program combines graduate level professional preparation with scholarship funding, interdisciplinary training, and structured clinical experience for the 2028–2029 academic intake.

For applicants searching for U.S. graduate scholarships tied directly to high demand professional sectors, the Project RISE program stands out. It focuses on workforce preparation rather than simply offering financial aid. The scholarship targets applicants who already see themselves building careers supporting children with disabilities in educational settings.

The Project RISE Scholarship 2028 at Elmhurst University is a federally funded graduate scholar preparation program for students pursuing special education, occupational therapy, or speech language pathology careers in the United States. The program provides partial tuition scholarship support, a yearly USD 900 stipend, interdisciplinary professional training, and clinical practice opportunities. Scholars must commit to serving students with disabilities after graduation.

Why the Project RISE Scholarship Matters in 2028

Graduate programs in healthcare and education across the United States continue to become more financially demanding. This is especially true for students entering specialized disability support professions. At the same time, schools face increasing shortages of trained professionals capable of delivering evidence based support to children with high intensity disabilities and developmental needs.

The Elmhurst University Project RISE Scholarship appears to respond directly to this challenge. Rather than operating as a general merit based award, the program specifically targets applicants willing to work in disability focused education and therapy environments after completing their studies.

A multi year federal grant under the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services of the U.S. Department of Education funds this initiative. This gives the program stronger institutional credibility compared to smaller private scholarship schemes.

What the Project RISE Scholarship Covers

The Project RISE funding package reduces graduate study expenses while also supporting practical training needs. Here is what scholars receive:

Partial Tuition Scholarship: The program covers a significant portion of your graduate degree costs
Yearly USD 900 Stipend: You receive this for two years to help with professional expenses

The additional stipend helps you manage several costs:

Books and academic materials
Technology and software needs
Transportation expenses
Childcare support
Professional association fees

You should still confirm remaining tuition obligations and living expenses directly with Elmhurst University. The scholarship is not publicly described as fully funded.

Eligible Degree Programs Under Project RISE

The Project RISE Scholarship 2028 opens itself to graduate applicants entering one of three professional pathways at Elmhurst University:

Master’s in Special Education: Prepares you for the Illinois Learning Behavior Specialist endorsement
Master’s in Speech Language Pathology: Leads toward ASHA certification and educator licensing
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT): Prepares you for NBCOT certification

Because the scholarship ties itself closely to workforce preparation, applicants with previous experience supporting children with disabilities will be more competitive. Strong long term career motivation in inclusive education environments also helps your application.

What Makes the Project RISE Program Different

Unlike many standard graduate scholarships that only provide financial support, the Project RISE program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence based practice. Scholars participate in several activities:

Seminars and mentorship activities
Case studies and field analysis projects
Collaborative learning experiences across professional disciplines

Students also gain practical experience through clinical placements, externships, and school based fieldwork connected to disability focused services. This structure appeals particularly to applicants who want stronger real world preparation before entering professional practice.

Elmhurst University’s support environment adds another advantage. You receive accessibility services, academic support systems, counseling resources, and mentorship. These systems improve scholar retention and professional readiness.

Important Service Requirement You Must Understand

The Project RISE Scholarship carries a federal service obligation requirement. Students receiving funding must complete qualifying employment after graduation. Otherwise, you must repay part of the scholarship support received.

For every academic year of scholarship assistance, you must complete two years of eligible full time employment. Your work must serve students with disabilities through direct or indirect professional roles.

This condition means the program best suits applicants already committed to long term careers in special education, occupational therapy, or speech language pathology. Students still uncertain about their professional direction should reconsider applying.

How to Apply for the Project RISE Scholarship

First, apply for admission into the relevant Elmhurst University graduate program. Then submit the separate Project RISE Scholar Application. Shortlisted candidates will later participate in interviews with program directors between February and May.

How to Apply

Click Here to Apply

Application Deadlines

The last date to apply for the CSD and MOT Project RISE Scholarship for the 2028–2029 academic year is 15 January 2028.

The last date to apply for the Special Education Project RISE Scholarship for the 2028–2029 academic year is 1 April 2028.

Visit the Elmhurst University Project RISE website today, review the full program details, and prepare your application before your target deadline. Your federally funded pathway to a disability focused career awaits.