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Scholarships for first-generation college students can be a total game-changer. They can provide much-needed financial assistance. This allows students to focus on their studies without worrying about money.
Plus, scholarships often come with additional resources like mentorship programs and networking opportunities, which can be really helpful for students navigating college on their own.
Looking for scholarships as a first-generation student can be tough, so we have made it easy! Check out our list of the best scholarships for first-generation college students, and take the first step towards achieving your dreams without breaking the bank.
The Ultimate Scholarships for First-Generation College Students List
Some students may ask, “Are there scholarships for first-generation college students?” Yes, there are scholarships specifically designed for first-generation college students!
These scholarships are designed to provide financial support and additional resources to help students achieve their academic goals. So, if you are a first-generation college student, don’t hesitate to explore the following scholarship opportunities available to you.
1. A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship Program
Award Amount
$1,000 to $2,000
Closing Date
May 31
Program Description
The A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship Program offers nursing scholarships for first-generation college students pursuing STEM-related degrees in fields such as:
- Architecture
- Mathematics
- Medical Sciences
- Physical Science
- Technology
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Natural Resources
Applicants must have a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA, and be enrolled at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university. When applying for this scholarship, students are required to provide a resume, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays.
2. APIA Scholarship Program
Award Amount
$2,500 to $20,000
Closing Date
January 19
Program Description
These scholarships for low-income first-generation college students are intended to help those of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage achieve their academic goals and give back to their communities.
To apply for the APIA Scholarship Program, applicants must describe their Asian or Pacific Islander heritage, be a United States citizen, and have a minimum GPA of 2.7. They must also be enrolled or planning to enroll as a degree-seeking undergraduate student in Fall, and apply for federal financial aid using the FAFSA by early April.
3. Berkeley Law Opportunity Scholarship
Award Amount
Full tuition
Closing Date
December 15
Program Description
The Berkeley Law Opportunity Scholarship (BLOS) is one of the few scholarships for first-generation law students that offers full-tuition coverage for three years of law school at UC Berkeley’s School of Law. With BLOS, you have a unique opportunity to pursue their passion for law and make a positive impact on their communities.
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must submit a complete admissions application by the deadline and have taken the LSAT, GRE, or GMAT no later than November 30. Additionally, applicants must write a 1-2 page BLOS essay with their application materials to demonstrate their passion for law.
4. Fontana Transport Inc. Scholars Program
Award Amount
$5,000
Closing Date
March
Program Description
These scholarships for Hispanic first-generation college students are specifically designed to help address the underrepresentation of Hispanic students in STEM-related careers and provide opportunities for these students to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.
Applicants must be graduating from high school and planning to pursue a full-time undergraduate degree at any four-year accredited university in the United States by the Fall. Additionally, they must have a minimum 3.5 weighted GPA.
5. MARCH Foundation & Bill Dickey Scholarship
Award Amount
$5,000
Closing Date
May 23
Program Description
These scholarships for first-generation Black college students aim to foster diversity and promote equity in the field of business by empowering the next generation of talented professionals.
Applicants must be accepted to a college or university within the United States, and they must be United States citizen. Additionally, students must be enrolled as full-time students, maintain a 2.5 GPA, and submit an official transcript via mail.
6. University of Texas at Austin Scholarships for First Generation Students
Award Amount
$500 to $5,000
Closing Date
Not available
Program Description
The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) offers a variety of scholarships for first-generation college students in Texas, specifically those whose parents did not attend college or did not earn a degree.
Most of these scholarships require students to fill out the FAFSA to determine their financial need. These scholarships can help support first-generation students as they pursue their undergraduate or graduate degrees at UT Austin.
7. AIFS Overseas Ambassador Scholarship
Award Amount
$500
Closing Date
March 1, April 15, October 1
Program Description
The AIFS Overseas Ambassador Scholarship is a competitive award that provides study abroad scholarships for first-generation college students. This scholarship is designed to support students who have never been abroad before and help them gain valuable intercultural skills and global perspectives.
If you are applying for the scholarship, you have to be ready to share your amazing adventures abroad with everyone via blogs, pictures, and videos on social media every week. Plus, you will need to give a testimonial at the end of your program. AIFS will then share all these materials on their social media channels and blog site.
8. Abby’s First-Generation College Student Scholarship
Award Amount
$500
Closing Date
June 1
Program Description
Abby’s First-Generation College Student Scholarship is available to eligible high school seniors who have a 3.0 GPA or higher and are planning to attend a four-year university as a first-generation student. To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must also demonstrate involvement in sports or extracurricular activities.
If you are thinking about applying, the sponsor would love to hear about a challenge or setback you have faced. Just tell them how you overcame it or are working on overcoming it. It could be anything from a difficult math problem to a personal struggle.
9. Pennsylvania Engineering Foundation Scholarship
Award Amount
Varied
Closing Date
Not available
Program Description
The Pennsylvania Engineering Foundation Scholarship is a program that provides scholarships for first-generation college students in Pennsylvania who are pursuing an engineering degree. The scholarship is awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and demonstrated commitment to the engineering field.
Furthermore, this scholarship acknowledges the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the engineering field and supports students who are the first in their families to attend college.
10. Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship
Award Amount
$5,000
Closing Date
May 31
Program Description
This program provides financial assistance to first-generation college students who are pursuing undergraduate degrees. The program is funded by The Coca-Cola Company and administered by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation.
To be eligible for the scholarship, students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, demonstrating academic excellence and a commitment to their studies. Finally, students must plan to attend a tribal college, which are institutions that serve Native American students and are located on or near Indian reservations.
So there you have it, folks! These are the top ten scholarships for first-generation college students. Apply for as many scholarships as you can, and be sure to check with your school’s financial aid office for additional opportunities. Best of luck in your educational journey, and go get that degree!
