Navigating higher education can feel like a new adventure for kids whose parents never went to college. Academic, financial, and emotional difficulties are frequently associated with the pressure of being the first person in the family to obtain a degree. The good news is that there are scholarships created especially to help you along the way, so you are not alone.
First in Family Scholarships, also known as first-generation scholarships, are a powerful financial aid tool to help you break new ground. This guide will show you how to find, qualify for, and win these scholarships so you can focus on achieving your educational dreams.
What Are First in Family Scholarships?
Understanding First-Generation College Student Status
Generally speaking, if you are a first-generation college student, neither of your parents earned a four-year degree. Students whose parents attended college but did not graduate may also be taken into consideration by some programs. This status frequently indicates that you might be navigating the challenges of college life without an established support structure, in addition to marking a significant event in your family’s history.
Why These Scholarships Exist
Upward mobility is made possible by higher education, but first-generation students frequently encounter significant obstacles. A few of these include a lack of family support, financial limitations, and restricted access to resources for college preparation. By giving students the financial and emotional assistance they need to thrive in college, First in Family Scholarships seek to close that gap. These scholarships honor your perseverance and acknowledge the fortitude required to be a trailblazer.
Who Is Eligible for First in Family Scholarships?
General Eligibility Criteria
Most first in family scholarships are open to students who are the first in their immediate family to pursue a four-year college degree. They are typically available to U.S. citizens or legal residents and are geared toward students currently enrolled in or planning to attend an accredited college or university.
Additional Requirements That May Apply
Eligibility can vary between programs, so it’s important to read the fine print. Some scholarships may also require a minimum GPA, demonstrated financial need through FAFSA or similar documentation, personal essays explaining your journey, and community service or leadership experience.
Detailed List of Scholarships for First-Generation Students
The following scholarships provide financial support specifically for first-generation students. Each listing includes the award amount, eligibility criteria, and application details.
Sallie Mae $2,000 No Essay Scholarship for First-Gen Students
- Award Amount: $2,000
It is for First-generation students planning to attend college in the U.S. No essay required. Apply on a rolling monthly basis. The deadlines are at the end of each month.
Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship
- Award Amount: Up to $5,000 annually
It is for First-generation students attending partner institutions like Florida A&M University and Morehouse College. The application should be applied through the school’s financial aid office. Deadlines vary by institution.
Dell Scholars Program
- Award Amount: $20,000, a laptop, and personalized support services
Eligibility is for Students with financial need, a GPA of 2.4+, and involvement in programs like AVID or Upward Bound. The Typical deadline is in December.
Gates Scholarship
- Award Amount: Full cost of college attendance
Requires that a student be a high-achieving, low-income, first-generation minority student. The application deadline is usually in September.
Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship
- Award Amount: $1,000
It is open to first-generation students, high schoolers, college students, and adult learners. Requires an essay. Deadlines are in the fall and spring.
Hispanic Scholarship Fund – First in My Family Scholarship
- Award Amount: $500 to $5,000
It’s for U.S. citizens of Hispanic heritage who are first-generation with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Deadline in February.
I’m First! Scholarship by the Center for Student Opportunity
- Award Amount: Up to $4,000 over four years
For First-generation students attending partner institutions with community service involvement. Application deadlines vary by institution.
QuestBridge National College Match
- Award Amount: Full four-year scholarship covering tuition, room and board, and fees
For Low-income, first-generation high school seniors with strong academic records. The application deadline is in September.
TMCF Thrive Scholarship
- Award Amount: Up to $10,000 per year
Eligibility: First-generation students attending publicly supported HBCUs with financial need and a GPA of 3.0+. Application Deadlines are typically in the spring.
Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting Scholarships
- Award Amount: $1,000 to $16,000
For First-generation women pursuing accounting degrees. Includes the Women in Transition Scholarship and other undergraduate awards.
There are several other scholarships exclusively for first-generation students. These include the $1,000 First-Gen Trailblazer Scholarship, the $2,000 Bold First-Generation Leaders Scholarship, and the $3,000 Gabriel J. Brown First-Gen Scholarship.
University and College Programs
Many colleges and universities also offer their first-generation scholarship programs.
- University of California’s Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan: Covers tuition and fees for California residents with family incomes under $80,000.
- Florida State University’s CARE Program: Provides full financial aid, mentoring, and a summer bridge experience.
- University of Georgia’s ALL Georgia Program: Supports first-gen and rural students with scholarships and resources.
- Amherst College: Offers financial aid, mentoring, and a dedicated support center for first-gen students.
How to Apply for First in Family Scholarships
Step-by-Step Application Guide
To begin, make a thorough spreadsheet that includes all of the dates, necessary materials, and application URLs for the scholarships you are eligible for. Your transcript, FAFSA Student Aid Report, recommendation letters, and a personal statement confirming your first-generation status should then be gathered.
One of the most important components of the application is your essay. Write a gripping account of your experiences, obstacles you’ve surmounted, and future learning objectives. Make sure every application reflects the particular goals and principles of the scholarship sponsor. Send in your applications ahead of time, make sure they are received, and monitor any follow-up messages or judgments.
FAQs About First in Family Scholarships
What counts as “first in family” for these scholarships?
Generally, if neither of your parents has completed a four-year college degree, you qualify. Some programs may be more flexible and accept students whose parents attended college but did not graduate.
Can I apply if my sibling went to college, but not my parents?
Yes. These scholarships typically focus on the educational attainment of parents rather than siblings.
Do I need to prove my first-generation status?
Sometimes. Some applications may ask for a written declaration or documents confirming your parents’ education level.
Are these scholarships renewable each year?
It depends. Some are one-time awards, while others can be renewed annually if academic and financial criteria continue to be met.
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step Toward Your College Dreams
More than just a personal accomplishment, being the first person in your family to attend college is a legacy you are creating. Scholarships for first-generation students are available to ease the burden, even though the path may seem overwhelming at times.
Keep in mind that your journey is a strength rather than a weakness. Open doors with your narrative. Be proactive, maintain organization, and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance. You can succeed if you have the correct tools and attitude.
Apply now. The future is waiting for you.
