Top Scholarships for First-Generation Students

Trying to navigate college life with no familial guidance and figuring out how to pay for your degree, all while learning who you are, can feel overwhelming. If you’re a first-generation college student pursuing a college degree, you’re not alone, and there are many resources to help you.

Resources like grants, federal student aid, educational websites, and scholarships can help you during your higher education journey. Scholarships, in particular, are a great opportunity to gain financial support. Scholarships for first-gen students are specifically designed to lessen the financial burdens that can come with being a trailblazer in your family.

These scholarships recognize the unique challenges and perseverance required of students who are paving the educational path for themselves and future generations. They often also provide not just financial assistance but mentoring and networking opportunities to support your academic and career progress while you attend college.

We’ve researched first-generation scholarships and reviewed tons of scholarships to help you get started on your scholarship search. We identified Bold.org scholarships as the best for first-gen students because Bold.org‘s commitment to supporting first-generation students is evident in its comprehensive selection, which includes scholarships based on merit, financial need, specific majors, and more. Whether you’re just starting college or you’re already on your way to achieving your degree, it’s never too late to apply for scholarships and take advantage of the support available to you.

Lead the way—secure first-gen scholarships and set a new path for your family. Apply today!

What are First Generation Scholarships?

First-generation scholarships are financial awards that are only open to applicants who are first-generation students, meaning the first in their family to attend college or university. These first-generation college students may pursue an undergraduate degree in a major of their choice. A first-generation scholarship can help with the costs that financial aid may not cover, including textbooks, meal plans, tuition, and more.

What Qualifies Someone for a First Generation Scholarship?

To qualify for a first-generation scholarship, the primary criterion is typically that the applicant must be the first in their family to attend college or university. These scholarships provide clear eligibility requirements in their descriptions, often highlighted in the application guidelines or the essay prompts if required.

Scholarship databases often categorize listings to help applicants find relevant opportunities quickly and efficiently.

How to Find First-Generation Scholarships

Looking for scholarships can be a complicated and lengthy process, especially if you don’t know where to start. But, there are a lot of resources available to help students find scholarships that they qualify for:

Online Resources

Numerous websites, like Bold.org, are dedicated exclusively to scholarship listings. These platforms allow you to filter scholarships by specific criteria, such as “first-generation college students,” making your search more targeted and efficient.

School Resources

Leverage the support from your high school or college’s advisory and financial aid offices. Counselors and advisors are often knowledgeable about scholarships that are not widely advertised and can provide personalized guidance based on your academic profile and needs.

Community and Local Nonprofits

Local community organizations and nonprofits frequently offer scholarships for residents, including those specifically for first-generation students. Check community centers, local chapters of national organizations, and even your local library for posted scholarship information.

Networking

Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Speak with older students who are also first-generation college attendees, as they might have insights and recommendations on scholarship opportunities they have encountered or utilized.

Tips for Winning First-Generation Scholarships

Securing a scholarship as a first-generation student can significantly impact your college journey. Here are some tips to enhance your chances:

Start Looking Early

The best strategy is to begin your scholarship search as early as high school. Students who begin looking when they’re in high school have more time to apply for and win scholarships. Starting early gives you the opportunity to better prepare your applications and meet early deadlines, which can increase your chances of success.

Be Aware of What the Scholarship Requires

Pay close attention to the scholarship requirements. For scholarships that require an essay, make sure that your essay answers all parts of the prompt. Be sure your application essays directly address the prompt and showcase the impact the scholarship will have on you. Clear, concise, and compelling responses that reflect your personal journey and the significance of your educational pursuits can set you apart from other applicants.

Look for Smaller Award Amounts, Too

While it’s tempting to only apply for large scholarships, don’t overlook the smaller ones. Another way to increase your chances of winning is to go for scholarships with smaller award amounts. Smaller scholarships often have fewer applicants, which naturally increases your chances of winning. Plus, several smaller awards can cumulatively cover a significant portion of your college expenses.

Many students often go for the higher dollar amounts in hopes of “winning more” and getting the most money possible. However, a lot of students will apply for these same scholarships for this reason, making the pool of students larger and thus resulting in a smaller chance of winning.

Frequently Asked Questions About First-Generation Scholarships

What Exactly Qualifies Someone As a ‘First-Generation’ Student?

Typically, you’re considered first-generation if neither of your parents has completed a four-year college degree. However, some scholarships have more specific definitions, so it’s crucial to check each scholarship’s criteria.

Can I Apply for First-Generation Scholarships If I Am Attending a Community College or Vocational School?

Yes, many first-generation scholarships are available, irrespective of the type of post-secondary institution. So, you don’t need to earn a bachelor’s degree to be eligible for these scholarships. Each scholarship will have its own requirements. Whether you’re at a community college, vocational school, or a traditional four-year university, there are likely scholarships available.

Are There Scholarships for First-Generation Students Who Are Also Minorities or Have Other Special Circumstances?

Absolutely. There are often additional scholarships aimed at students who meet multiple criteria, such as being both a first-generation student and a member of a minority group.

Can International Students Apply for First-Generation Scholarships in the U.S.?

Some scholarships are available to international students who are the first in their family to attend college. These opportunities vary by the scholarship provider, so international students should carefully review eligibility requirements and reach out to the scholarship sponsors to clarify their eligibility.

Are There First-Gen Scholarships for Graduate Students?

Yes, first-in-family scholarships are available to graduate students as well. Many organizations recognize the unique challenges faced by first-generation students pursuing advanced degrees and offer scholarships specifically tailored to support their continued education.

Undergraduate students seeking a four-year college degree can access a variety of resources, such as scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs, designed to support their educational pursuits and help manage the costs associated with higher learning. Browse our blog to learn more.