Rett Sibling Scholarship

Families affected by Rett syndrome navigate many challenges, from medical care to logistics to financial strain. Within each family, siblings have their own unique experiences, which may include moments of joy and connection, added responsibilities, changes in family routines, and supporting their loved ones–all while pursuing their own goals.​

The Rett Sibling Scholarship, sponsored by Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc., intends to recognize the role of these siblings. For the 2027-2028 academic year, 10 scholarships of $7,500 will be awarded to eligible siblings of individuals living with Rett syndrome.

The program is fully administered by the International Scholarship and Tuition Services (ISTS), a firm specializing in managing sponsored scholarship programs. Applications are reviewed by an independent committee, and final selections will be made without involvement from Acadia to ensure impartiality. Submission of an application is not a promise of award.

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Here’s a quick overview of key points; for full details on application requirements, the online submission process, full terms and conditions, and more, download the Rett Sibling Scholarship FAQ (PDF).

The scholarship is open to U.S. residents attending school in the U.S. who have or had a sibling diagnosed with Rett syndrome and who had not previously received this scholarship. Applicants are evaluated based on academic performance, extracurricular and community involvement, personal and family circumstances, financial need, and personal essay.

Eligible institutions include accredited U.S.-based colleges and universities (2- and 4-year), graduate programs, and trade, technical, or vocational schools.

The 2027 essay prompt asks applicants to describe the experiences, relationships, or values that have helped shape the person they are, and how they will carry those lessons with them as they pursue their education and future goals.

Eligibility Requirements

The scholarship is open to U.S. residents attending school in the U.S. who have or had a sibling diagnosed with Rett syndrome and who have not been previously awarded this scholarship. The applicant was required to submit attestation of the sibling’s diagnosis, but no personal medical information was requested/required. The diagnosed sibling does not need to be taking an Acadia therapy, and treatment status is not considered at all in scholarship selection. Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc or affiliated company employees or an immediate family member of an employee are not eligible to apply.

Acceptable Institutions

The program is open to students pursuing all kinds of higher education. Scholarship awards can be used for accredited colleges and universities for undergraduate (both 2- and 4-year) and graduate programs, as well as trade, technical, and vocational schools. Institutions must be located in the U.S., and scholarship recipients must be in good academic standing per their schools’ guidelines.

Selection Criteria

The scholarship aims to support deserving siblings in families affected by Rett syndrome who need financial assistance to pursue educational goals. The independent review committee will consider a variety of factors in their selection, including academic performance, school and community activities, family and personal circumstances, financial need, and the applicant’s essay.

Acadia’s Involvement

Acadia sponsors the Rett Sibling Scholarship and funds the awards but has no involvement in review or selection. To ensure complete impartiality and maintain a high level of professionalism, the program is administered by International Scholarship and Tuition Services (ISTS), Inc., a firm that specializes in managing sponsored scholarship programs. Applications are reviewed and recipients are selected by an independent review committee.

Scholarship Fund Distribution

Scholarship recipients are notified in April and then have 30 days to accept (or they forfeit the award). Recipients received reminders of the acceptance deadline. Scholarship funds are issued via either an ACH or checks made out to the school and mailed directly to each award recipient; it is the recipient’s responsibility to submit the ACH/check to their school.

Contact Information

For more helpful information about scholarships plus answers to common inquiries related to ISTS’s technology and processes, visit our Self-Help Portal at ISTSprogramsupport.com. You may also call toll-free (855) 670-ISTS (4787). ISTS offices are open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM CT and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM CT.