Presented by BioMarin Pharmaceuticals, Inc, the RARE Scholars Program offers individual awards of up to $10,000 each to students with rare genetic conditions. Eligible students may re-apply each year for the award, totaling a potential $50,000 per student.
Scholarship Details
- Re-application is permitted
- Merit-based
- Application opens annually in February
- Official doctor's statement of diagnosis is required
- Disclosure of applicant's treatment status is not required
- BioMarin employees and their children may not apply
Eligibility Criteria
- Diagnosed with a rare genetic disease, including:
- Achondroplasia
- Batten disease
- Hemophilia A
- Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS)
- Phenylketonuria (PKU)
- High school senior, high school graduate, current post-secondary student, or vocational student
- Enrolled (or plan to enroll) at least part time at an accredited institution
- U.S. or ex-U.S. resident enrolled in a U.S. school
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
Application Process
- Gather all required documents, including:
- Current academic transcripts
- Personal statement
- Recommendation
- Diagnosis verification
- Ensure your physician submits the Diagnosis Verification Form before the deadline
- Ensure your recommender submits their recommendation before the deadline
- Complete your application and submit it, including all required documents
The RARE Scholars Program uplifts high-achieving students with rare genetic disorders to offer them the best chance of success in higher education and increase public awareness of these disorders.
