How to Apply for First Generation Scholarships in 2025?

First generation scholarships provide financial assistance to students whose parents did not complete a baccalaureate degree. These specialized funding opportunities recognize the unique challenges that first-generation college students face when navigating higher education. Currently, 8.2 million first-generation undergraduate students represent 54% of all undergraduates in the United States.

First-generation students face significant obstacles, with only 24% graduating compared to 59% for continuing-generation students. Educational institutions, private organizations, and federal programs specifically target this demographic to reduce college costs and increase graduation rates among underrepresented populations. During the 2019-2020 academic school year, over 25% of all undergraduate students in the U.S. were first-generation college students.

The significance of first generation scholarships extends beyond monetary support. These programs provide mentorship opportunities, academic resources, and professional development tools that help students succeed throughout their college journey. Recipients gain access to networks of alumni, faculty advisors, and peer support systems designed to address the specific needs of first-generation learners.

Top First Generation Scholarship Programs

Major scholarship programs specifically support first-generation college students with substantial funding and comprehensive support services. These established programs have track records of helping students succeed academically and professionally.

National First Generation Scholarships

• Coca-Cola Scholars Program: Awards $20,000 to high-achieving students with strong leadership potential and community involvement, with applications opening August 1-September 30, 2025, for students graduating in 2025-2026
• Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship: Provides up to $55,000 per year for approximately 70 exceptional high school seniors with financial need, with an application deadline of November 12, 2025, and award notification in April
• Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship: Awards up to $55,000 per year for up to 3 years to 90 community college students transferring to four-year institutions, with application opening October 1, 2025
• Dell Scholars Program: Offers $20,000 plus ongoing support services, including textbook credits, laptop computers, and personalized counseling for first-generation students from low-income backgrounds.
• Gates Scholarship: Provides full tuition coverage for outstanding minority first-generation students with significant financial need pursuing undergraduate degrees
• Horatio Alger Scholarship: Awards $25,000 to students who have overcome adversity, including many first-generation college students from low-income families
• The Dream.US Scholarship: Supports undocumented first-generation students with up to $33,000 for bachelor’s degrees and ongoing mentorship
• Thurgood Marshall College Fund Scholarships: Various awards ranging from $3,000 to $12,000 for first-generation students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
• NSHSS First-Generation Scholarship: The National Society of High School Scholars provides scholarships to help first-generation students reach their potential
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund: Awards up to $15,000 annually to Latino first-generation college students with renewable opportunities
• United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Scholarships: Multiple programs offering $1,000 to $10,000 for African American first-generation students
• OCA-UPS Gold Mountain Scholarship: Recognizes first-generation college students in their final year of higher education, with over 160 scholarships awarded since its establishment

Corporate and Foundation Scholarships

• Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship: Awards up to $25,000 for students pursuing their passions, with special consideration for first-generation applicants
• Burger King Scholars Program: Provides $1,000 to $50,000 scholarships, with priority given to first-generation college students demonstrating academic excellence.
• Foot Locker Foundation Scholarship: Awards $20,000 over four years to student-athletes who are first-generation college students
• Walmart Foundation Scholarships: Various programs, including the Walmart Associate Scholarship ($3,000) and Community Scholarship ($1,000) for first-generation students
• Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship: Provides $10,000 annually, plus paid internships for first-generation students pursuing computer science degrees
• McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship: Awards $100,000 total to Hispanic first-generation students, with individual awards ranging from $5,000 to $25,000
• Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship: Provides $1,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are first-generation college students in Comcast service areas

University-Specific Programs

• University of Colorado Boulder First-Generation Scholarship: Awards up to $32,000 for in-state first-generation students with demonstrated financial need
• University of Alabama Coca-Cola First-Generation Scholarship: Provides $5,000 annually for Alabama residents who are first in their families to attend college
• Stanford First-Generation Student Support: Comprehensive program including the First-Generation Low-Income Partnership, providing full tuition plus living expenses
• University of California System FirstGen Initiative: Multi-campus program offering varying amounts from $2,500 to $10,000 depending on campus and need
• Notre Dame Holy Cross First-Generation Scholarship: Awards full tuition to exceptional first-generation students from underrepresented backgrounds
• MIT First Generation Scholarship: Covers full demonstrated need for first-generation students admitted to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology

State and Regional Programs

• California Dream Act Application: Provides access to state financial aid for first-generation students, including Cal Grants worth up to $12,570
• Texas First-Generation Scholarship Program: State-funded initiative providing $1,000 to $5,000 to qualifying first-generation college students
• New York State Excelsior Scholarship: Covers tuition at SUNY and CUNY schools for first-generation students from families earning up to $125,000
• Illinois MAP Grant: Provides up to $5,815 for first-generation students attending Illinois colleges and universities.

First Generation Scholarships Coverage

These comprehensive funding programs address multiple aspects of college expenses to ensure first-generation students can focus on academics rather than financial stress. Coverage varies by program but typically includes essential educational costs.

The benefits of a First Generation Scholarships include:

• Tuition and Fees: Direct payments to educational institutions for semester charges, laboratory fees, technology fees, and registration costs
• Room and Board: Housing expenses, including dormitory costs, meal plans, utilities, and campus living arrangements
• Textbooks and Supplies: Academic materials including required textbooks, digital resources, laboratory supplies, and specialized equipment
• Transportation Costs: Travel expenses between home and campus, study abroad programs, internship locations, and conference attendance
• Technology Requirements: Laptop computers, software licenses, internet access, and digital learning platforms are necessary for coursework
• Professional Development: Conference registration, certification exam fees, professional association memberships, and networking event costs
• Research and Internship Support: Unpaid internship stipends, research material costs, and academic conference presentation expenses
• Emergency Financial Aid: Unexpected expenses that could derail academic progress, including medical bills and family emergencies

Benefits of First Generation Scholarships

First generation scholarships offer comprehensive advantages that extend far beyond basic tuition assistance. These programs provide holistic support systems designed to address the unique challenges faced by students who are navigating higher education without family college experience.

Financial Relief and Stability Recipients receive substantial monetary support ranging from $500 to $55,000 annually, significantly reducing student loan debt. Many programs offer renewable funding for multiple years, providing financial predictability throughout college. This stability allows students to focus on academics rather than working excessive hours to cover educational expenses.

Academic Support Services Scholarship programs typically include tutoring services, study groups, and academic coaching specifically tailored for first-generation students. Many offer priority registration for classes, access to specialized advisors who understand first-generation challenges, and connection to peer mentoring networks. These services directly contribute to higher graduation rates among scholarship recipients.

Professional Development Opportunities Most programs provide internship placement assistance, career counseling, and networking events with industry professionals. Students gain access to leadership development workshops, professional skill-building seminars, and alumni networks that open doors for future career opportunities. Some scholarships include guaranteed internship placements with partner companies.

Technology and Resource Access Many scholarship programs provide laptop computers, textbook vouchers, and technology stipends to ensure students have necessary learning tools. Recipients often receive free access to online learning platforms, research databases, and academic software that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive for low-income families.

Mentorship and Guidance Dedicated mentors help navigate college systems, course selection, and career planning decisions. These relationships often continue beyond graduation, providing ongoing professional guidance and networking opportunities. Mentors understand the unique challenges of being first-generation and offer culturally relevant advice.

Campus Integration Support Specialized orientation programs help first-generation students adjust to campus culture and academic expectations. Many scholarships include access to exclusive events, social gatherings, and leadership opportunities that build confidence and campus connection. These programs reduce feelings of isolation commonly experienced by first-generation students.

Eligibility Criteria for First Generation Scholarships

Scholarship programs establish specific requirements to identify qualified candidates and ensure funding reaches intended recipients. Understanding these criteria helps students determine their eligibility before investing time in applications.

To be eligible for the First Generation Scholarships, you must meet the following criteria:

• Parental Education Status: Students qualify if their parent(s) do not have a bachelor’s degree, even if parents have some education less than a bachelor’s degree
• Academic Performance: Minimum GPA requirements typically range from 2.5 to 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, depending on the specific program
• Financial Need: FAFSA submission required, with Expected Family Contribution limits varying by scholarship organization
• Enrollment Status: Full-time or part-time enrollment at accredited two-year or four-year institutions
• Citizenship Requirements: U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status for federal programs, with some private scholarships accepting international students
• Geographic Restrictions: State residency, specific school district attendance, or regional location requirements for certain programs
• Field of Study: Major-specific scholarships for STEM fields, education, healthcare, business, and other high-demand career paths
• Community Involvement: Volunteer service hours, leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and community impact demonstrations
• Essay Requirements: Personal statements addressing first-generation challenges, career goals, and academic aspirations

Required Documents for First Generation Scholarships

Application packages require comprehensive documentation to verify eligibility and assess candidate qualifications. Gathering these materials early in the process ensures timely submission and complete applications.

• Academic Transcripts: Official high school and college transcripts showing GPA, course completion, and graduation dates
• FAFSA Information: Student Aid Report demonstrating financial need and Expected Family Contribution calculations
• Personal Essays: Responses to scholarship-specific prompts addressing first-generation experiences and educational goals
• Letters of Recommendation: Academic references from teachers, counselors, employers, or community leaders who can attest to character and potential
• Parent Education Verification: Documentation proving parental education levels through transcripts, employment records, or affidavits
• Income Documentation: Tax returns, W-2 forms, pay stubs, and other financial documents supporting need-based applications
• Enrollment Verification: Acceptance letters, registration confirmations, or current student status documentation from educational institutions
• Resume or Activity List: Comprehensive record of work experience, volunteer service, leadership roles, and extracurricular involvement

How to Apply for First Generation Scholarships

Follow 9 steps to apply for First Generation Scholarships

• Step 1: Research Available Programs – Use scholarship search engines like Bold.org and institutional websites to identify relevant opportunities matching your profile and interests
• Step 2: Create Application Calendar – Track application deadlines, requirements, and submission dates using spreadsheets or calendar apps to avoid missing important dates
• Step 3: Complete FAFSA Application – Submit federal financial aid forms early to establish baseline financial need documentation required for most scholarship programs
• Step 4: Gather Required Documents – Collect transcripts, recommendation letters, tax documents, and other supporting materials well before application deadlines
• Step 5: Draft Personal Essays – Write compelling narratives addressing first-generation challenges, academic goals, and career aspirations with specific examples and measurable outcomes
• Step 6: Request Recommendation Letters – Contact teachers, counselors, employers, or mentors at least 4-6 weeks before deadlines, providing them with resume and essay drafts
• Step 7: Review and Edit Applications – Proofread all materials for grammar, spelling, and content accuracy, ensuring responses directly address prompt requirements
• Step 8: Submit Applications Early – Complete submissions 1-2 weeks before deadlines to allow for technical issues and last-minute corrections

Step 9: Follow Up on Applications – Confirm receipt of materials and maintain communication with scholarship organizations throughout the selection process.

Official Website

Visit scholarship organization websites directly for complete application requirements, deadline updates, and program-specific information. Official sources provide accurate eligibility criteria, award amounts, and application procedures.

Apply Now for first-generation scholarships through Bold.org’s comprehensive database.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies me as a first-generation college student?

You qualify as a first-generation college student if your parent(s) do not have a bachelor’s degree. You can still qualify if your parent(s) have some education that is less than a bachelor’s degree, such as community college attendance without graduation. The key factor is that neither parent completed a four-year college degree program.

Do I still qualify if one parent went to college but didn’t graduate?

Yes, you still qualify for first-generation scholarships. If your parent(s) attended college but did not graduate from a four-year college or university, you are considered first generation. Partial college attendance without degree completion does not disqualify you from first-generation status.

Can I apply for first-generation scholarships if my sibling graduated from college?

Yes, you can still apply. Your student’s older sibling(s) may have graduated from four-year colleges. That still qualifies the student as first-gen since the sibling is a member of the same generation. First-generation status depends only on your parents’ education level, not your siblings’ achievements.

How much money can I get from first-generation scholarships?

First-generation scholarship amounts vary widely. Awards range from $500 to $20,000 per academic year. Some scholarships offer one-time payments, while others provide renewable funding for multiple years. The exact amount depends on the specific scholarship program and your financial need.

Do I need good grades to qualify for first-generation scholarships?

Most first-generation scholarships require a minimum GPA between 2.5 and 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. However, requirements vary by program. Some scholarships focus more on financial need and first-generation status than academic performance. Community involvement and leadership experience also matter for many programs.

Can I apply for multiple first-generation scholarships at once?

Yes, you can and should apply for multiple scholarships. There are no limits on how many first-generation scholarships you can apply for or receive. Applying to several programs increases your chances of securing funding for college expenses.

Do I need to fill out the FAFSA for first-generation scholarships?

Most first-generation scholarships require FAFSA completion. The FAFSA determines your Expected Family Contribution and demonstrates financial need. Even scholarships that are not strictly need-based often require FAFSA information for verification purposes.

Are first-generation scholarships available for graduate school?

Yes, some first-generation scholarships support graduate school students. These programs recognize that first-generation students face unique challenges in pursuing advanced degrees. However, most first-generation scholarships focus on undergraduate students and high school seniors.

What documents do I need to prove first-generation status?

You typically need parent education verification documents. These include high school transcripts showing your parents’ highest education level, employment records, or signed affidavits stating their educational background. Some programs may also accept tax documents or other official records.

When should I start applying for first-generation scholarships?

Start applying during your junior year of high school. Many scholarship deadlines occur between August and March of your senior year. Early preparation gives you time to gather required documents, write strong essays, and request recommendation letters. Some programs have rolling deadlines throughout the year.