Scholarships for first-generation college students

What it means to be a first-generation college student

A first-generation college student is generally defined as a student whose parents or legal guardians did not complete a four-year bachelor’s degree. This distinction is important because it often means you are navigating the complex world of higher education without the benefit of firsthand family experience. While this is the standard definition, it’s crucial to check the specific criteria for each scholarship, as some may consider you first-generation even if a parent earned an associate degree or a professional certificate, while others do not.

This group is a significant part of the student body. According to a 2018 report from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), about one-third of all undergraduate students are the first in their families to pursue a degree. These students often face unique systemic barriers, from deciphering financial aid forms like the FAFSA to building a professional network from scratch. Data from the Postsecondary National Policy Institute highlights this challenge, showing that as of February 2021, first-generation students were less likely to graduate within six years than their peers whose parents hold degrees.

Scholarships for first-generation students are designed specifically to address this equity gap. They aim to provide more than just financial assistance; they often include access to mentorship, academic support, and community-building resources. By leveling the playing field, these awards empower students to overcome obstacles and successfully complete their college education, setting them up for long-term success.

Major national scholarships for first-generation students

While many scholarships are open to all students, several prestigious national programs are designed specifically to support first-generation students. These awards are often highly competitive but provide significant funding and, in many cases, valuable mentorship and support networks. Securing one of these can dramatically reduce the need for student loans. According to Mark Kantrowitz, financial aid expert, “Every dollar you save is a dollar less you have to borrow.”

Below is a comparison of some of the most prominent national scholarships available to first-generation students.

Source: Program websites, as of October 2024.

The Gates Scholarship is one of the most generous awards available. According to the Gates Scholarship program website as of October 2024, it covers the full cost of attendance that is not already covered by other financial aid and scholarships. This prestigious program is awarded to 300 top student leaders each year with the intent of helping them realize their maximum potential. It is designed for outstanding, minority, Pell Grant-eligible high school seniors.

The Dell Scholars Program offers more than just money. As reported by the Dell Scholars Program as of October 2024, in addition to a $20,000 scholarship, recipients receive a laptop, textbook credits, and personalized support for challenges that may arise during college, from financial aid questions to family crises. The program specifically targets Pell Grant-eligible students who have participated in an approved college readiness program for at least two years.

The Coca-Cola First-Generation Scholarship is awarded through the Coca-Cola Foundation to various colleges and universities, which then select the recipients. According to the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation as of October 2024, award amounts often reach $5,000 and may be renewable. Because this scholarship is administered by individual institutions, the application process and deadlines vary. You should check directly with the financial aid offices of the schools you are interested in to see if they participate.

While these national awards draw thousands of applicants, they are worth pursuing for their transformative potential. However, they are just the beginning. Many excellent opportunities can also be found at the state and regional levels.

State and regional first-generation scholarships

Beyond the highly competitive national awards, some of the best scholarship opportunities for first-generation students are located right in your own backyard. State and regional scholarships often have smaller applicant pools because they are restricted by geography, which can significantly increase your chances of winning. These awards may offer smaller dollar amounts than national programs, but they can be a critical piece of your college funding puzzle, helping to cover costs for tuition, books, and fees.

Many states have government-funded grant and scholarship programs specifically designed to support residents attending in-state colleges. A great starting point is to visit your state’s department of education or higher education agency website. These sites often feature a searchable database of available financial aid. For example:

• In Texas, the Toward EXcellence, Access and Success (TEXAS) Grant program provides funding to students with financial need, many of whom are first-generation.
• According to the College Futures Foundation as of October 2024, California’s College Futures Foundation offers the College Futures Foundation Scholarship, which provides up to $1,200 annually to low-income students from specific counties.
• New York’s Percy E. Sutton SEEK program is a higher education opportunity program that provides academic and financial support to students attending City University of New York (CUNY) schools.

Another excellent resource is your local community foundation. These nonprofit organizations manage charitable funds for a specific geographic area and often administer dozens of scholarships with unique eligibility criteria, including being a first-generation student. Because these are limited to residents of a particular city or county, the competition is far lower than for statewide or national awards. Award amounts typically range from $500 to $5,000, but winning several smaller local scholarships can add up to a substantial sum. A simple online search for “[Your City/County] community foundation scholarships” is the best way to uncover these hidden gems.

By expanding your search to include these state and local options, you can create a more robust financial aid strategy. The next step is to narrow your focus even further to the specific institutions you plan to attend, as they are often a primary source of dedicated first-generation student support.

College-specific first-generation awards and support

Many colleges and universities are a primary source of financial aid for first-generation students, offering dedicated scholarships and robust support systems as part of their commitment to building a diverse student body. These institutional awards are often funded directly by the school’s endowment or through donations from alumni who were first-generation students themselves. The best way to uncover these opportunities is by thoroughly exploring the financial aid and admissions sections of each college’s website you are considering.

Accessing these funds varies by institution. Some colleges automatically consider you for first-generation scholarships based on the information you provide on your admissions application and your FAFSA. If you indicate that your parents did not complete a four-year degree, you may be flagged for eligibility without any extra steps. However, other schools require a separate application for specific endowed scholarships, which might include additional essays or letters of recommendation. Always check the requirements for each school on your list.

Beyond direct financial aid, many institutions host comprehensive programs designed to ensure first-generation student success. According to the U.S. Department of Education, federally funded programs like the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) are available on over 1,000 campuses nationwide, providing academic advising, tutoring, and financial literacy workshops. For students aiming for graduate studies, the McNair Scholars Program offers research opportunities and mentorship.

Many top universities have their own flagship initiatives. For example, the University of Michigan’s Kessler Scholars Program provides not only scholarship funding but also a strong community and cohort-based support system. Similarly, many public and private institutions offer special grants, emergency funds, and book stipends specifically for their first-generation populations. These programs often provide invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities that extend far beyond a check for tuition.

While institutional aid is a cornerstone of funding your education, the support doesn’t stop at the campus gates. Many private companies and nonprofit organizations also offer scholarships to help first-generation students succeed.

Corporate and organization scholarships

In addition to institutional aid, many private companies and nonprofit organizations offer scholarships as an investment in the next generation of leaders. These awards are often designed to support students from specific backgrounds, including those who are the first in their family to attend college. Tapping into these resources can significantly reduce your reliance on student loans and open doors to valuable networking and internship opportunities.

Many large corporations sponsor scholarships to cultivate a diverse and talented workforce. For example, according to The Sallie Mae Fund as of October 2024, The Sallie Mae Fund’s Bridging the Dream Scholarship Program often prioritizes first-generation and minority students, offering awards of up to $10,000 for high school seniors. Similarly, according to Amazon Future Engineer as of October 2024, the Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship program provides up to $40,000 for students from underserved communities—which frequently includes first-generation students—planning to study computer science or engineering.

Beyond big-name companies, professional associations are an excellent source of funding, especially for students pursuing specific career paths. Organizations in high-demand fields like STEM, healthcare, and education often have scholarships aimed at encouraging first-generation students to enter their profession. A search for “[Your Intended Major] professional association scholarships” can yield targeted results.

Don’t overlook opportunities in your own community. Local businesses, credit unions, and civic organizations like the Rotary Club or Kiwanis International frequently offer scholarships to area students. These awards may be smaller, but the applicant pools are also significantly smaller. Additionally, parents should check with their employers, as many companies provide scholarships exclusively for the children of their employees, sometimes with special consideration for first-generation students.

As you gather applications for these varied opportunities, you’ll find that a common requirement is formally demonstrating your eligibility. The next step is understanding how to properly document and prove your first-generation status.

How to prove your first-generation status

Proving you are a first-generation student is typically a straightforward process based on self-reported information. Scholarship providers and colleges rely on your honest answers about your parents’ or legal guardians’ educational history. The most common place you’ll provide this information is on your college applications and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Most applications, including the FAFSA, ask for the highest level of schooling your parents completed. Your answers to these questions are the primary way institutions verify your first-generation status. There is rarely a need for additional documentation; the system is built on trust. However, it’s crucial to be accurate, as providing false information can have serious consequences, including the revocation of a scholarship offer.

The definition of “college completion” can vary. Generally, it means a four-year bachelor’s degree. If a parent earned an associate degree, a professional certificate, or a degree from an institution outside the U.S., you may still qualify as first-generation for many scholarships, but you must check the specific eligibility rules for each award. For complex family situations, such as divorced parents or living with legal guardians, the instructions will typically guide you. Most applications ask about the parent(s) you live with the majority of the time or your legal guardians. When in doubt, contact the scholarship provider directly for clarification. Honesty and careful reading of the application instructions are your best tools for navigating this step successfully.

Finding first-generation scholarships: search tools and databases

Once you know what to look for, the next challenge is finding the right opportunities. Fortunately, numerous online tools and local resources can streamline your search. The key is to be strategic and use filters and keywords that highlight your unique status as a first-generation student. A persistent and organized approach will maximize your results.

Large scholarship databases are an excellent starting point. Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and the College Board’s BigFuture search tool allow you to create a detailed profile. When setting up your account, be sure to check the box or indicate that you are a first-generation student. This simple step automatically filters results to match you with relevant awards. You can also use specific keywords in their search bars, such as “first in family” or “first-generation college student,” to uncover additional opportunities. For more general tips, our guide to finding scholarships can help.

Beyond the big search engines, don’t overlook more targeted sources that often have less competition:

• College Financial Aid Offices: Your prospective colleges are a goldmine. Contact their financial aid offices directly and ask for a list of scholarships specifically reserved for first-generation students.
• Community Organizations: Local nonprofits, such as the United Way, Boys & Girls Clubs, or your local community foundation, often have scholarship programs for students in your area. A quick online search for “[Your Town] scholarships” can reveal these options.
• Social Media: Follow hashtags like #FirstGenScholarship or #Scholarships on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn. Many organizations use social media to announce new awards and deadlines.

By combining these broad and targeted search methods, you can build a strong, diversified list of scholarships to apply for. With your list in hand, the next step is to craft an application that makes you stand out from the crowd.

Application strategies for first-generation scholarships

Your first-generation status is more than just a box to check on an application—it’s a powerful story of ambition and resilience. The key to a winning application is to frame this experience as a unique strength. Scholarship committees aren’t looking for tales of hardship; they want to see evidence of your determination, resourcefulness, and potential. Your essay is the primary place to connect the dots for them, showing how navigating the path to college on your own has prepared you for success.

Instead of focusing on what you lacked, highlight what you gained. Did you have to figure out the FAFSA and college applications by yourself? That demonstrates independence and problem-solving skills. Were you the one explaining financial aid options to your family? That shows maturity and leadership. The goal is to present a narrative of empowerment. Your journey has equipped you with unique skills that other applicants may not have, and that’s your competitive edge.

When writing your essays, concentrate on themes that showcase your character. Consider focusing on one of these angles:

• Resilience: Describe a specific obstacle you faced in the college planning process and the concrete steps you took to overcome it.
• Motivation: Explain what drives your desire for a college education. Connect it to your family’s history and your aspirations for the future.
• Community Impact: Discuss how you plan to use your education to give back, perhaps by mentoring future first-generation students.

Applying for multiple scholarships requires careful organization. Create a simple spreadsheet to track deadlines, essay prompts, and submission requirements. You can also craft a “master essay” that tells your core first-generation story. This document can then be tailored to fit the specific questions of each application, saving you time while ensuring a consistent and compelling message. Every application you submit is an investment in reducing your future debt. According to Sandy Baum, education policy expert, “Borrowing is not inherently bad; the question is how much, and under what terms.” Winning scholarships directly helps you control the “how much” part of that equation.

Frequently asked questions

Navigating the world of scholarships can bring up many specific questions about eligibility and strategy. Here are concise answers to some of the most common queries from first-generation students and their families.

Yes, in most cases you still qualify. The definition of a first-generation student typically hinges on whether a parent has completed a four-year bachelor’s degree. If your parent or guardian has some college credits but no degree, you are generally considered the first in your family to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

This is a critical detail where scholarship rules can differ. Many programs, including federal aid definitions, specify a bachelor’s degree. Under this rule, a parent holding an associate degree or a vocational certificate would not disqualify you. However, some private scholarships may have a broader definition of “postsecondary education,” so it is essential to read the eligibility criteria for each award carefully.

This can be another gray area. Some scholarship providers only consider degrees earned from U.S. institutions. If a parent completed their degree in another country, you might still be considered a first-generation student in the context of the American higher education system. When in doubt, contact the scholarship organization directly to clarify their policy.

Absolutely. You are encouraged to apply for as many scholarships as you are eligible for. Winning multiple awards, a strategy known as “scholarship stacking,” can significantly reduce your education costs. Just be aware that you must report all external scholarships to your college’s financial aid office, as it may impact your overall need-based aid package.

It varies by program. Some scholarships are one-time awards given to incoming freshmen, while others are renewable for up to four years. Renewable scholarships typically require you to maintain a certain GPA or meet other academic progress standards. Always check the award details to understand if it is a one-time or multi-year opportunity.

Being the first in your family to attend college is a significant achievement, and a wealth of resources exists to support your journey. As this guide shows, opportunities are available at every level—from major national awards and corporate scholarships to dedicated aid from your state and chosen college. Your path forward involves a strategic and organized search to piece together a strong financial aid package.

Here are your key takeaways:

• Start with the FAFSA: This single application is your gateway to the largest sources of aid, including federal grants, work-study, and many institutional awards.
• Search broadly and locally: Combine large scholarship databases with targeted outreach to college financial aid offices and community foundations in your area.
• Tell your story: Frame your first-generation experience as a source of strength, resilience, and motivation in your application essays.

Always maximize grants, scholarships, and federal student loans before considering other options. If a funding gap remains, private student loans can be a tool to cover the difference. Remember that private loans typically require a credit check and may need a creditworthy cosigner to secure approval and a competitive interest rate.

If you’ve explored all other avenues, you can compare rates from 8+ lenders.

Additional resources for first-generation students

Your journey doesn’t end once you’re accepted. These resources can provide ongoing support, information, and community as you navigate college and beyond.

• Support and Community: Organizations like I’m First! and the Center for First-generation Student Success offer mentorship, blogs, and resources specifically for first-gen students.
• Federal Aid Information: The official StudentAid.gov website and the Federal TRIO Programs provide essential guidance on government support systems.
• College Finance Guides: Continue your search with our guide to finding scholarships and master the financial aid process with our step-by-step FAFSA guide.