Scholarships for First-Generation College Students
Advanced education paves the way for a brighter future. If you are the first in your family to walk down that road, scholarships for first-generation college students can help you achieve those dreams. While filling out the federal FAFSA form is a must, applying for as many other funding sources as possible lowers financial stress and long-term debt. Check out these scholarships to break through the barriers as the first one in your family.
Who Is Eligible for First-Generation College Scholarships?
Different scholarships have different rules, so check them out before sending in your application. In general, a first-generation or first-in-family college student is anyone whose parents do not have an associate or bachelor’s degree. In some cases, no parent or family member could have enrolled in college at all. This may include siblings who are currently enrolled.
Top Scholarships for First-Generation Students
The top tip for winning scholarships is to apply to as many relevant scholarships as possible. Do not ignore smaller funds. An extra $1,000 can make the difference when it comes to paying tuition bills or for books, room, and board. Smaller funds also tend to have fewer applicants, which makes the chance of getting a first-gen scholarship greater.
Just like with any scholarships, you can find awards based on financial need, merit, or the strength of the application alone. Merit-based funding options consider grades and SAT and ACT test scores. Some look at involvement in educational or career-development organizations and clubs. First-generation college student scholarships focused on applications often include essay portions that give you the opportunity to show your family’s path toward a brighter future.
Funding for Specific States or Locations
Patty & Melvin Alperin First Generation in Rhode Island – Get up to $1,500 annually for approved enrollment in college for first-generation Rhode Island high school seniors.
Florida First Generation Grant – Program offers need-based awards to first-generation college students attending Florida state community colleges and universities.
First-Gen and Other Awards in Vermont – Vermont high school students can apply for 120+ different scholarships with application due dates in May or October.
Nashville First Students – Yearly scholarship for first-generation college students who scored 2.5+ GPA in Nashville public schools and 21+ ACT score.
Thurgood Marshall Coca-Cola Foundation -- Awards up to $5,000 for students in specific universities who have 3.0+ GPA and financial needs.
The list of state-specific scholarships for first-generation college students is incredibly long. Many combine with educational programs that award high school students with high GPAs money to continue their schooling. The first step is to speak with your school’s guidance counselor and look at state department websites. These primarily focus on state schools as they want to attract top local students.
Scholarships Based on Demographic Information
American Indian Full Circle Scholarships – Proof of tribal affiliation and minimum 2.0 GPA needed for the May 31 deadline.
Hispanic Scholars’ Program – April 30th deadline for annual awards to Hispanic/Latino students with 2.5+ GPA in high school or college.
Education Dynamics Minority Scholarship – Get up to $10,000 with a successful application before July 30th from any ethnic minority student.
Smaller Scholarships Worth a Look
Gutierrez Law Firm First of Us – A $1,000 scholarship for first-generation students who apply before August 31st focused on essay and application.
Jasdeep Singh Family Scholarship – College freshmen and sophomores with immigrant parents can win up to $1,000.
Mercedes Benz Drive Your Future – High school seniors who apply before March for two or four-year colleges or vocational schools in Alabama.
Mutrux Firm Lawyers First-Time Students – Submit resume, transcript, and personal statement for a chance at $1,000 toward school.
TELACU College Success Program – First-generation students with 2.5+ GPA and financial need receive awards up to $5,000 for STEM or business majors.
Ask at Your Target College’s Financial Aid Offices
Besides general scholarships for first-generation college students, it always makes sense to approach the colleges and universities you apply to directly. Many have special funds or financial aid options that can help. Check application deadlines and make appointments early to increase your chances of winning scholarships.
For many students whose families did not have the opportunity or means to get advanced education in the past, scholarships for first-generation applicants break many barriers. Start early, learn top techniques for making your application shine, and start dreaming of a brighter future.
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