Thomas J. Balkany Cochlear Implant Training Scholarship Fund

Expanding Access to Excellence in Cochlear Implant Education

Every hearing health professional deserves the opportunity to advance their skills in cochlear implantation—regardless of financial barriers. The Thomas J. Balkany Cochlear Implant Training Scholarship Fund removes obstacles to world-class training, ensuring that audiologists, surgeons, and other specialists can access the education they need to transform patients' lives.

Our Mission

The Thomas J. Balkany Cochlear Implant Training Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to hearing health professionals seeking to expand their knowledge and clinical skills in cochlear implantation. We believe that investing in professional education creates a ripple effect—every trained clinician goes on to improve outcomes for countless patients with hearing loss.

100% of donations directly fund scholarships.

Every dollar you contribute goes toward course tuition for deserving professionals.

Impact & Awards

Scholarship Awards Are Granted Twice Annually

Spring Term: Applications open January 1, close March 15, awards announced April 1

Fall Term: Applications open July 1, close September 15, awards announced October 1

First scholarships will be awarded for Fall Term 2026.

Eligibility

Our scholarships are available to:

Audiologists and audiology graduate students

Otolaryngologists and ENT surgical residents/fellows

Speech-language pathologists

Other hearing health professionals pursuing cochlear implant training

Recent graduates entering the field

Whether you're a student, early-career professional, or experienced clinician seeking advanced training, financial need should never prevent you from accessing ICIT's comprehensive courses.

How Scholarships Are Awarded

We're committed to a fair, transparent selection process that prioritizes those who will most benefit from ICIT training and who will extend that benefit to their communities and patients.

Applications are reviewed by ICIT's Board of Directors and Clinical Board of Directors based on:

Demonstrated financial need

Whether you’re a student, early-career professional, or experienced clinician seeking advanced training, financial need should never stand in the way of your growth. ICIT is committed to making world-class cochlear implant education accessible to all. Applicants are encouraged to share their financial circumstances and explain how this scholarship would open doors to training opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. We especially welcome those serving communities with limited resources or working in settings where institutional support is scarce.

Professional development goals and potential impact

Every career journey is unique. We invite you to share your aspirations and show us how ICIT training will fuel your growth, spark new expertise, and empower you to make a meaningful difference. Tell us about the skills you hope to gain, how this experience will deepen your practice, and the impact you hope to create for your patients and community.

Quality of application and recommendations

We value applicants who approach this opportunity with care and passion. Well-prepared applications and heartfelt recommendations stand out—showing your dedication to excellence, your clinical strengths, and your incredible potential to thrive and contribute through ICIT training.

Commitment to serving underrepresented populations or underserved areas

Your commitment to breaking down barriers matters. Share your experience serving underrepresented or underserved communities—whether you work in rural areas, care for diverse populations, or strive to close the gap in access to hearing healthcare. We want to support professionals who are extending the reach of cochlear implant care to those who need it most.

Alignment with ICIT's mission to advance cochlear implant care

Join a community of changemakers dedicated to raising the bar in cochlear implant care. If you’re passionate about evidence-based practice, lifelong learning, and making a difference in the lives of those with hearing loss, tell us how you’ll use ICIT training to share knowledge, mentor others, and advance care beyond your own practice.

Questions about the scholarship program?
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