Vocational Rehabilitation
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Assistance
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a state-based program designed to assist individuals with hearing loss or other disabilities. VR may provide financial support for college expenses, including tuition, fees, and living costs, as well as assistance for disability-related devices such as hearing aids or glasses.
Eligibility
To qualify for VR assistance, students must:
Students who believe they may be eligible should apply to the VR agency in their home state.
Coordination with Financial Aid
Many VR agencies require that all financial aid applications be submitted before authorizing support. As a result, students may begin the semester without VR authorization. To avoid delays, students should:
-
Apply early for all financial aid programs.
-
Inform their VR counselor of financial aid results as soon as they are available.
-
Confirm with their VR counselor whether any authorizations will be sent to Gallaudet prior to the release of financial aid.
Registration and Payments
If VR authorizations are not received before registration:
-
Students are responsible for paying expenses or signing a promissory note to register.
-
Once financial aid and VR assistance are applied, students will be reimbursed for any payments made.
Students should communicate with their VR counselor each semester to determine anticipated assistance. VR funds sent directly to the student, rather than to Gallaudet, are considered student payments.
Books and Supplies
Students expecting VR support for books and supplies should plan to purchase these items themselves, as authorizations may not arrive in time for bookstore credit. Keep all receipts for reimbursement through Student Financial Services.
The Financial Aid Office cannot provide loans for books and supplies. Students or VR counselors with questions should contact the Financial Aid Office for guidance.