First-generation scholarships support students whose parents did not graduate from college. These awards recognize resilience and academic drive. Key programs include the Gates Scholarship and Hispanic Scholarship Fund to help learners achieve success.
Breaking barriers starts with the right support. First Generation College Student Scholarships open doors for learners whose families are experiencing higher education for the first time. These opportunities recognize determination, resilience, and the courage to pursue new academic territory. Each scholarship is designed to ease financial pressures, highlight individual potential, and celebrate the drive to succeed despite obstacles. With accessible requirements and encouraging guidance, these programs help first-generation students step confidently toward long-term educational and career goals.
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Southern New Hampshire University
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Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
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Top 10 First-Generation College Student Scholarships
This guide highlights the Top 10 First-Generation College Student Scholarships chosen for their strong support of academic ambition, accessibility, and community impact. Each scholarship was selected based on clear eligibility criteria, meaningful student resources, and a demonstrated commitment to expanding educational opportunity. The guide explains the purpose of each award, what makes it valuable, and how first-generation students can use these scholarships to overcome financial barriers and pursue long-term academic success with confidence. Here is a list of the top 10 First-Generation College Student Scholarships:
- Dorrance Scholarship Programs
- The Dream.US National Scholarship
- The Gates Scholarship
- Quest Bridge Scholarship
- Clarkston Scholars Program
- Hispanic Scholarship Fund
- IFSA First-Generation Scholarships
- American Indian College Fund
- Atkins Educational Foundation Pathway to Success Scholarship
- First Graduate Program
Top 10 First Generation College Student Scholarships — Details
The Top 10 First Generation College Student Scholarships highlight opportunities designed to elevate learners who are breaking new ground in higher education. These programs emphasize determination, academic drive, leadership potential, and meaningful community involvement. Each award supports students who demonstrate resilience, ambition, and a strong commitment to transforming educational challenges into long-term success. Here is the detailed list of the top 10 First Generation College Student Scholarships:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dorrance Scholarship Programs | The Dorrance Scholarship Programs are a leading example of First Generation College Student Scholarships, supporting first-generation Arizona students pursuing undergraduate education with financial assistance, mentoring, leadership development, and international study opportunities. Scholars receive academic support, community-building activities, and structured enrichment programs that foster personal growth and long-term success. The initiative emphasizes improving college persistence and graduation outcomes for students who are the first in their families to attend college. | Varies | Varies |
| The Dream.US National Scholarship | The Dream.US National Scholarship is a notable program among First Generation College Student Scholarships, helping undocumented students, including DACA and TPS recipients, access higher education at partner colleges across the United States. The program provides multi-year support, academic resources, and guidance. Scholars gain advising, career readiness tools, and a strong peer network that enhances educational achievement and expands opportunities for immigrant and first-generation communities. | Varies | Varies |
| The Gates Scholarship | The Gates Scholarship is a prestigious program recognized among First Generation College Student Scholarships, supporting exceptional minority high school seniors with strong academic records and demonstrated leadership. The scholarship emphasizes long-term success through financial support, advising, mentorship, and personal development. Scholars receive guidance throughout college, helping them excel academically, develop professional skills, and prepare for advanced careers in diverse, high-impact fields. | Varies | Varies |
| Quest Bridge Scholarship | The Quest Bridge National College Match is a leading program among First Generation College Student Scholarships, connecting high-achieving, low-income students with top U.S. universities through a rigorous, holistic selection process. Students gain access to prestigious partner institutions, academic support, and advising throughout college. The program reduces barriers for first-generation and underserved students by pairing them with institutions committed to equity, opportunity, and long-term educational success. | Varies | Varies |
| Clarkston Scholars Program | The Clarkston Scholars Program is a recognized example of First Generation College Student Scholarships, supporting Pennsylvania students pursuing life sciences degrees through education-focused enrichment and professional exposure. Scholars receive mentorship, networking, and career development experiences, preparing them for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or life sciences careers. The program emphasizes leadership potential, academic promise, and commitment to contributing to the region’s growing scientific and educational landscape. | up to $10,000 | February 6, 2026 |
| Hispanic Scholarship Fund | The Hispanic Scholarship Fund is a prominent program among First Generation College Student Scholarships, supporting students of Hispanic heritage pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees across diverse disciplines. The program provides academic advising, college preparation resources, mentorship, career development opportunities, and access to a national network. Scholars benefit from ongoing support that enhances academic achievement, professional readiness, and long-term success in education and career pathways. | Varies | Varies |
| IFSA First-Generation Scholarships | The IFSA First-Generation Scholarships assist students studying abroad through the Institute for Study Abroad. The program is designed to reduce barriers for first-generation students by providing access to global learning experiences, academic advising, pre-departure preparation, and on-site support. Scholars benefit from cultural immersion, expanded worldviews, and personal development opportunities that strengthen global competency and academic confidence. | Varies | Varies |
| American Indian College Fund | The American Indian College Fund is a leading example of First Generation College Student Scholarships, supporting Native American students pursuing higher education at tribal colleges, universities, and accredited institutions nationwide. The organization provides scholarships, academic resources, cultural programming, and community-based support to strengthen student persistence and graduation. Its mission emphasizes honoring Indigenous identity, expanding educational access, and empowering Native scholars to serve their communities through leadership and learning. | Varies | May annually |
| Atkins Educational Foundation Pathway to Success Scholarship | The Atkins Educational Foundation Pathway to Success Scholarship is a notable example of First Generation College Student Scholarships, supporting first-generation women entering college directly after high school. The program provides structured mentorship, ongoing personal guidance, and academic support to help scholars navigate the college transition. Its mission focuses on empowering young women through education, confidence-building, and consistent, individualized support that promotes long-term academic and personal success. | Varies | Varies |
| First Graduate Program | The First Graduate Program is a leading initiative among First Generation College Student Scholarships, preparing San Francisco students who will be the first in their families to graduate from college. The program offers long-term academic guidance starting in middle school, including tutoring, counseling, college application support, financial literacy training, career exploration, and mentorship, aiming to enhance college readiness, persistence, and professional success for first-generation youth. | Varies | Varies |
What Do You Need to Get a First-Generation College Student Scholarship?
Securing a First-Generation College Student Scholarship requires clarity, preparation, and a strong story that highlights the challenges of being the first in a family to pursue higher education. These scholarships reward determination, academic commitment, and community impact. Understanding key expectations helps build a focused application that stands out and demonstrates readiness for long-term academic success. Here are a few effective ways to qualify for First generation College Student Scholarships
- Proof of First-Generation Status
Documentation confirming that neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree is typically required. Verification may include school forms, brief background statements, or counselor confirmations that validate first-generation status within the application process. - Strong Academic Record
Competitive programs expect evidence of consistent academic effort, as demonstrated by transcripts, GPA benchmarks, or advanced coursework. Academic performance demonstrates readiness for rigorous college expectations and commitment to long-term educational goals. - Impactful Personal Statement
A focused narrative that explains the educational journey, the obstacles faced, and aspirations is essential. Selection committees look for authenticity, growth, and clarity of goals, emphasizing how first-generation status shaped motivation and future ambition. - Letters of Recommendation
Recommendations from teachers, mentors, or community leaders provide insight into character, resilience, and potential. These letters help reviewers understand academic habits, leadership traits, and personal drive beyond what transcripts alone reveal. - Evidence of Community or Campus Engagement
Participation in volunteer work, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities helps illustrate dedication to service and personal development. Engagement signals initiative, social awareness, and the ability to contribute positively to academic communities.
How to Apply for First Generation College Student Scholarships?
Applying for First-Generation College Student Scholarships involves preparation, organization, and clear communication of academic goals and personal experiences. These scholarships reward determination, resilience, and leadership. Understanding each step of the application process ensures stronger submissions, reduces stress, and increases the likelihood of success. A strategic approach helps highlight strengths and demonstrate readiness to thrive in higher education.
- Research Eligible Scholarships
Identifying scholarships specifically created for first-generation students ensures applications align with eligibility requirements. Reviewing selection criteria, mission statements, and required documents helps focus on opportunities that match academic strengths, personal background, and long-term goals. - Gather Required Documents
Collecting transcripts, recommendation letters, proof of first-generation status, and financial information early prevents last-minute delays. Organized preparation allows time to refine materials, verify accuracy, and ensure each document supports a compelling, complete application package. - Write a Strong Personal Statement
Crafting a story that highlights background, challenges, achievements, and academic motivation strengthens the impact of the application. Clear themes, authentic experiences, and specific future goals help reviewers understand commitment and potential for making meaningful contributions throughout higher education. - Tailor Each Application
Customizing materials to address a scholarship’s mission increases competitiveness. Aligning essays, accomplishments, and experiences with program values demonstrates effort, understanding, and intentionality, reinforcing suitability for opportunities designed to support first-generation student success. - Submit Early and Track Deadlines
Completing submissions ahead of deadlines reduces stress and allows time for edits. Tracking requirements, confirmation emails, and follow-up steps ensures no component is missed, improving chances of receiving full consideration from selection committees.
Additional Resources for First Generation College Student Scholarships
First generation college student scholarships extend far beyond university financial aid offices. Community foundations at the state and local levels frequently offer grants to help students overcome educational barriers in their families. Educational nonprofits, corporations, and professional associations sponsor awards for first-generation students committed to academic success. Online databases aggregate thousands of opportunities searchable by geography, ethnicity, or major. Alumni networks and mentorship programs connect students with lesser-known funding sources. Here are a few websites for scholarship resources:
First Gen Forward
First Gen Forward is a national initiative that supports colleges committed to improving success for first-generation students. Institutions in this network share research-backed practices, develop campus strategies, and collaborate to improve retention and graduation outcomes. Students benefit from stronger support systems, data-informed programming, and coordinated resources that help them navigate academic, financial, and social challenges more effectively.
College Possible
College Possible is a nonprofit organization that provides coaching, mentoring, and college access support to students from low-income and first-generation backgrounds. Through near-peer advising, ACT/SAT preparation, application guidance, and college persistence coaching, the organization helps students remain on track from high school through degree completion. Its structured support model empowers learners to overcome barriers and stay focused on academic success.
Bold.org
Bold.org is an online scholarship platform offering exclusive, donor-funded awards to students from diverse backgrounds, including first-generation learners. Its streamlined profile system matches applicants with scholarships aligned to interests, goals, and academic paths. The platform emphasizes accessibility, reducing complexity in the search and application process while allowing students to discover funding opportunities they may not find elsewhere.
Bottom Line
Bottom Line is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting first-generation and low-income students through college access and success programs. Advisors provide one-on-one guidance on applications, financial aid, enrollment decisions, and academic persistence. The organization’s long-term support model helps students navigate college challenges, stay engaged, and successfully progress toward graduation with personalized, relationship-driven coaching.
Appily.com
Appily.com is a college search and scholarship platform designed to help students explore schools, compare options, and identify funding opportunities. Its tools allow users to assess admissions chances, review academic programs, and locate scholarships tailored to their profile. The platform supports informed decision-making while simplifying the research process for first-generation students planning their higher education journey.
FAQs About the First Generation College Student Scholarships
What qualifies someone as a first-generation college student for scholarship purposes?
A first-generation college student is typically someone whose parents or guardians have not completed a four-year college degree. Some scholarships also consider students whose parents attended college outside the U.S. or earned only associate degrees. Programs use this definition to identify applicants who may face unique barriers in accessing higher education and long-term academic success.