Scholarships For First Generation Students: 15+ Best Awards To Apply Now

Scholarships for First Generation Students: 15+ Best Awards to Apply Now

Scholarships for first generation students are financial awards given to college students who are the first in their immediate family to pursue a four-year college degree. Scholarships for first generation students are currently open from organizations like RSM US Foundation ($30,000), the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation ($20,000), the Dorrance Scholarship ($48,000 total), and many more. These scholarships for first generation students range from $500 to full-ride awards and are available annually to high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students. If you are searching for scholarships for first generation students, dozens of national, state, university, and corporate programs exist specifically to fund your education. Scholarships for first generation students do not need to be repaid — making them the smartest, most powerful tool available to first-gen college-goers.

Being the first in your family to attend college is a major achievement, but it comes with real financial challenges. Scholarships for first generation students were created specifically to remove that barrier. Each year, hundreds of new scholarships for first generation students open for applications from corporations, nonprofits, universities, and government agencies. Many scholarships for first generation students do not even require a perfect GPA — they focus on access, motivation, leadership, and financial need. Whether you are a high school senior preparing to enroll or an undergraduate already in college, there are active scholarships for first generation students you can apply for right now. The key is knowing where to look and how to apply strategically — and this guide covers both.

What Are Scholarships for First Generation Students?

Scholarships for first generation students are a specialized category of financial aid created for students who will be the first in their immediate family to earn a college degree. Unlike student loans, these scholarships do not require repayment — they are free money awarded based on criteria like financial need, academic merit, community leadership, or simply your status as a first-gen student.

According to the Center for First-Generation Student Success, approximately one-third of all college students in the United States are first-generation students. Despite their numbers, first-gen students face disproportionate financial challenges: studies show that roughly two-thirds of first-gen students graduate carrying student loan debt. Scholarships exist to change that reality.

These awards can come from:

Federal and state government programs (e.g., Pell Grants, state first-gen grants)
Colleges and universities (institutional scholarships specifically for first-gen admits)
Corporations (e.g., RSM US, Coca-Cola, Mercedes-Benz)
Nonprofits and foundations (e.g., TELACU, Thurgood Marshall College Fund)
Community organizations (local and regional awards)

Who Qualifies as a First-Generation College Student?

The most widely used definition is: a student whose parents or legal guardians have not earned a four-year bachelor’s degree. However, definitions can vary between scholarship programs. Here are the most common eligibility standards you will encounter:

Neither parent completed a bachelor’s degree (most common standard)
Neither parent attended any college at all
Parents attended community college or trade school but did not earn a 4-year degree
At least one parent did not attend college (some programs use this broader definition)

Important notes:

If your siblings have attended or graduated from college, you may still qualify at most programs.
Some scholarships define first-generation more narrowly, so always read the eligibility criteria carefully before applying.
Financial need is often — but not always — required alongside first-gen status.

Top 15+ Scholarships for First Generation Students (Currently Open)

Below is a curated list of the best scholarships for first generation students available each year. Deadlines shift annually, so check each program’s official website for the latest update on open application windows.

1. RSM US Foundation First Generation Scholarship

Award Amount: Up to $30,000 ($10,000/year for 3 years) Eligibility: Full-time students studying business or technology with a 3.3 GPA or higher; legal U.S. resident; first-generation as defined by no immediate family from previous generations holding a bachelor’s degree Application Window: Opens December 1 annually; closes February 28 Notable Perk: Winners receive an invitation to an exclusive RSM information session and career networking opportunity Apply at: rsmus.com

2. Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Scholarship

Award Amount: $20,000 ($5,000/year for 4 years) Eligibility: High school seniors with demonstrated leadership, character, and academic achievement; some universities also offer a dedicated Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship Selection: 150 students selected each year nationally Notable Perk: Access to the Coca-Cola Scholars community and alumni network Apply at: coca-colascholarsfoundation.org

3. Dorrance Scholarship (Arizona)

Award Amount: Up to $48,000 total ($12,000/year for 4 years) Eligibility: First-generation students in Arizona; must attend one of Arizona’s three public universities; minimum 3.0 GPA; SAT 1110+ or ACT 22+; demonstrate financial need Renewal: Renewable annually if requirements are met Apply at: dorrancescholarship.org

4. TELACU Education Foundation College Success Scholarship

Award Amount: Varies (renewable for up to 4 years) Eligibility: First-generation, low-income students from underserved communities primarily in California; strong academic record required for renewal Notable Perk: Beyond money, TELACU provides workshops, career guidance, tutoring, and internship opportunities — making it one of the most comprehensive first-gen scholarship programs available Apply at: telacu.com

5. NSHSS First Generation Award

Award Amount: Varies Eligibility: Members of the National Society of High School Scholars who are first-generation college students Application: Requires a 500–800 word essay on challenges faced as a first-gen student and how you overcame them Apply at: nshss.org

6. Fontana Transport Inc. Scholars Program

Award Amount: Up to $5,000 Eligibility: First-generation, underrepresented high school seniors planning to attend any U.S. college or university; priority given to students in Transportation Management, STEM, architecture, pre-med, psychology, or Spanish Language and Literature Awarded: Multiple winners each year Apply at: fontanatransport.com

7. Farash Foundation First in Family Scholarship

Award Amount: Potential full-ride (debt-free graduation) Eligibility: First-generation college students in New York’s Monroe and Ontario counties Requirement: Community service and nonprofit work during enrollment Apply at: thefarashfoundation.org

8. University of Colorado First Generation Scholarship

Award Amount: $2,000/year (renewable for 4 years) + $2,000 one-time stipend for on-campus freshmen Eligibility: First-generation students enrolled at the University of Colorado; FAFSA required; transfer students eligible Apply at: colorado.edu/financialaid

9. Florida First Generation Matching Grant (FGMG)

Award Amount: Varies based on need Eligibility: Florida residents enrolled in at least 6 credit hours per semester at an approved Florida public university or community college; demonstrate financial need via FAFSA; renewable for up to 4 years Apply at: floridastudentfinancialaidsg.org

10. American Indian College Fund — Full Circle Scholarship

Award Amount: Varies Eligibility: Students with American Indian or Alaska Native ancestry pursuing full-time study at a college or tribal school; strong preference for first-generation status and financial need Apply at: collegefund.org

11. J. Craig and Page T. Smith Scholarship Foundation

Award Amount: Up to $5,000 Eligibility: Alabama students with demonstrated financial need; C average or better; priority given to first-generation applicants with civic or family involvement Apply at: smithsfoundation.org

12. Thurgood Marshall College Fund

Award Amount: Varies Eligibility: Students in urgent financial need attending historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs); first-generation status considered favorably Apply at: tmcf.org

13. QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship

Award Amount: Full four-year scholarships to top U.S. colleges Eligibility: High-achieving, low-income students (many of whom are first-generation); designed to connect first-gen and low-income students with full-ride scholarships at over 55 partner colleges Apply at: questbridge.org (See our full guide on QuestBridge Scholarships on LicensureHub)

14. BizInsure First Generation Scholarship

Award Amount: $2,000 + 3-month work placement Eligibility: First-generation students majoring in business, finance, accounting, marketing, management, or entrepreneurship Apply at: bizinsure.com

15. First Generation Civil Rights Fellowship

Award Amount: Paid summer fellowship Eligibility: First-generation undergraduate students passionate about social justice and civil rights careers Notable Perk: Real-world career experience alongside financial support Apply at: Check your university’s career center for latest listing

Best First-Generation Scholarships at a Glance

Scholarship Name	Award Amount	GPA Required	Financial Need?	Who Can Apply	Renewable?
RSM US Foundation	Up to $30,000	3.3+	No (but considered)	U.S. residents, business/tech majors	Yes (3 years)
Coca-Cola Scholars	$20,000	High achiever	No	High school seniors nationally	Yes (4 years)
Dorrance Scholarship	Up to $48,000	3.0+	Yes	Arizona first-gen students	Yes (4 years)
TELACU Foundation	Varies	Required for renewal	Yes	CA underserved communities	Yes (4 years)
Fontana Transport	Up to $5,000	Not specified	No	Any first-gen high school senior	No
Farash Foundation	Full ride potential	Not specified	Yes	NY Monroe/Ontario counties	Conditional
NSHSS First Gen Award	Varies	NSHSS member	Not required	NSHSS member students	No
QuestBridge Match	Full ride	High achiever	Yes	Low-income/first-gen students	Yes (4 years)
BizInsure First Gen	$2,000 + placement	Not specified	No	Business major first-gen students	No
AICF Full Circle	Varies	Not specified	Yes	American Indian/Alaska Native	Yes
Florida FGMG	Varies	2.0+	Yes	Florida residents at FL public schools	Yes (4 years)
U of Colorado First Gen	$2,000–$4,000	Not specified	Yes (FAFSA)	U of Colorado students	Yes (4 years)

Types of First-Generation Scholarships

Not all scholarships for first generation students are the same. Understanding the categories helps you target the right awards for your profile:

1. Need-Based Scholarships These awards prioritize financial hardship alongside first-gen status. The Pell Grant (up to $7,395 annually) is the most well-known federal need-based award. Completing your FAFSA each year is essential to access these funds.

2. Merit-Based Scholarships These reward academic achievement — GPA, standardized test scores, and class rank. Programs like QuestBridge and the Dorrance Scholarship blend merit with need.

3. Community and Leadership-Based Scholarships Organizations like TELACU and the First Generation Civil Rights Fellowship look for students who demonstrate leadership, volunteerism, and community impact — sometimes weighting this more heavily than grades.

4. University-Specific Scholarships Many colleges and universities offer their own institutional first-gen scholarships, often tied to your FAFSA and enrollment status. Check your financial aid office each year for the latest update on available institutional awards.

5. Corporate Scholarships Companies like RSM US, Coca-Cola, and Mercedes-Benz invest in first-generation students through annually funded programs, often pairing financial awards with mentorship or internship access.

6. Identity-Based Scholarships with First-Gen Preference Many scholarships for women, minorities, and specific communities (Hispanic, Black, Indigenous) include first-generation status as a preference or additional eligibility criterion.

What People Also Ask

What is the best scholarship for first-generation college students?

The best scholarship depends on your location, major, and background. Nationally, the RSM US Foundation Scholarship (up to $30,000) and the QuestBridge National College Match (full ride) are among the most generous. The Dorrance Scholarship offers up to $48,000 for Arizona students. Aim to apply to multiple scholarships simultaneously to maximize your chances each year.

Do first-generation students get more financial aid?

First-generation status alone does not automatically increase your federal financial aid package. However, many states, universities, and private organizations offer additional grants and scholarships specifically because of first-gen status. Combining federal aid (Pell Grant, FSEOG), state grants, institutional awards, and private scholarships is the most effective strategy.

What GPA do you need for first-generation scholarships?

GPA requirements vary widely. Some scholarships require a 3.0–3.5 GPA (Dorrance, RSM), while others have no minimum GPA requirement at all (Fontana Transport, Farash Foundation). There are strong scholarships available even if your academic record is average — focus on writing compelling essays and demonstrating leadership or financial need.

Can graduate students apply for first-generation scholarships?

Yes. Some scholarships specifically welcome graduate students, including the RSM US Foundation Scholarship (business/tech graduate students) and the QuestBridge Graduate Fellowships. Always check the education level requirements in the application guidelines.

Do you still qualify if your siblings went to college?

In most cases, yes. The standard definition focuses on whether your parents or legal guardians earned a bachelor’s degree — not whether your siblings attended college. RSM US explicitly states that applicants are still considered first-generation even if their immediate siblings have or are currently pursuing a degree. However, always verify with each specific scholarship’s definition.

How do I prove I am a first-generation college student?

Most scholarship applications will ask you to complete the FAFSA, which includes a section on your parents’ education levels. Some programs may require a personal statement, a letter from a school counselor, or official documentation confirming your parent’s educational background.

Are there scholarships for first-generation students who are undocumented?

Federal scholarships and the Pell Grant require U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status. However, 19 states currently offer state financial aid and grant programs for undocumented students. Additionally, many universities and private organizations award scholarships based on merit and first-gen status without regard to immigration status. Always check the citizenship requirements of each program.

How many scholarships should I apply for?

Apply to as many scholarships as you qualify for. Experts consistently recommend applying widely, including smaller, local awards that are less competitive. Many smaller scholarships add up significantly — and each application strengthens your essay-writing and application skills for the next one.

How to Apply for First-Generation Scholarships (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Complete Your FAFSA First The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the gateway to federal aid, state grants, and many institutional scholarships. Submit it as early as possible each year — funding is often limited and distributed on a first-come basis.

Step 2: Search for Scholarships Using Multiple Databases Use platforms like licensurehub.com and your college’s financial aid portal to find the latest update on open opportunities tailored to first-generation students.

Step 3: Build a Master Scholarship Spreadsheet Track every scholarship you plan to apply for, including: award amount, deadline, requirements, essay prompts, and application status. Being organized prevents missed deadlines.

Step 4: Craft a Powerful Personal Essay Most scholarships require a personal statement. Your story as a first-generation student — the challenges you have overcome, your ambitions, the impact you hope to create — is your strongest asset. Be specific, authentic, and forward-looking.

Step 5: Gather Supporting Documents Early Commonly requested documents include: official transcripts, letters of recommendation (teachers, counselors, community leaders), FAFSA Student Aid Report (SAR), proof of enrollment, and a resume or activity list.

Step 6: Apply for Scholarships Every Year Do not stop after your first year. Many scholarships are renewable annually if you maintain academic standards, and new scholarships open each year. Students who apply consistently across all four years of college significantly reduce their debt burden.

Step 7: Follow Up and Accept Awards Properly Once awarded, understand renewal requirements, notify your financial aid office, and submit any required thank-you letters or progress reports to scholarship organizations.

Tips to Win Scholarships for First Generation Students

These expert-backed strategies consistently improve your chances:

Apply Early and Often Many scholarship pools are limited. Applications submitted early in the cycle face less competition and demonstrate initiative — a quality every scholarship committee values.

Target Smaller, Local Awards Nationally competitive scholarships like QuestBridge attract thousands of applicants. Local and regional first-gen scholarships often have smaller applicant pools, making them easier to win. As experts note: “It’s OK to go for the low-hanging fruit, because that adds up to that home run.”

Use Your School’s Resources High school counselors, college financial aid advisers, and TRIO program coordinators often know about scholarship opportunities before they are broadly advertised. Build those relationships early.

Tell Your Story Powerfully First-gen scholarship committees are often moved by authentic stories of resilience, sacrifice, and ambition. Do not undersell your journey — being the first in your family to pursue higher education is remarkable, and your essay should reflect that.

Reapply Each Academic Year Some scholarships allow reapplication if you were not selected the first time. Others cycle through new applicants annually. Never assume a single rejection is permanent.

Connect with First-Gen Student Organizations on Campus Organizations like First Gen United (GWU) and You First (VCU) help students discover scholarship opportunities, connect with mentors, and navigate financial aid processes throughout the college journey.

scholarships for first generation students application guide

First-Generation Scholarships vs. General Scholarships

Feature	First-Gen Scholarships	General Scholarships
Eligibility	First in family to attend college	Open to all students
Competition Level	Moderate (targeted pool)	Often very high
Focus	Access, need, leadership	Merit, talent, field of study
Essay Topics	Personal journey, family impact	Varies widely
Financial Need Requirement	Often required	Varies
Additional Perks	Mentorship, career support common	Less common
Renewal Opportunity	Often renewable	Varies

Federal Student Aid — FAFSA: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa — The official starting point for all federal financial aid, Pell Grants, and need-based scholarships. Every first-gen student must complete this annually.
U.S. News & World Report — How to Find Scholarships as a First-Generation College Student: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/paying-for-college/articles/how-to-find-scholarships-as-a-first-generation-college-student — Expert advice from financial aid directors at U.S. colleges on strategy and resources for first-gen students.
Center for First-Generation Student Success: https://firstgen.naspa.org — The leading national research and advocacy organization tracking data, policy, and resources for first-generation college students.

If you are a high-achieving, low-income first-gen student, be sure to read our complete guide: QuestBridge Scholarships: The Ultimate Guide to Win a Full Ride to 55 Top Colleges

Before you apply to any scholarship, read our foundational guide on strategy: Scholarship Mastery: 7 Powerful Secrets to Win Fully Funded Scholarships

For first-generation women in academia or professional fields: AAUW Fellowship Program: 5 Powerful Grants Every Woman Must Apply

Explore a broader list of funding options with our guide to undergraduate scholarships in the United States

Final Thoughts: Your First-Generation Journey Starts Now

Being the first in your family to attend college is not just a personal achievement — it is a legacy-defining moment. The financial burden that often accompanies this milestone does not have to derail your dreams. Each year, billions of dollars in scholarship funding go unclaimed simply because students do not know where to look or how to apply.

Scholarships for first generation students are available right now — from corporate giants like Coca-Cola and RSM, to state-level programs, university-specific awards, and community foundations. The strategies in this guide give you a proven roadmap to find them, apply effectively, and win consistently throughout your college career.

Start with your FAFSA. Build your scholarship tracker. Write your story. Apply broadly, apply early, and apply every year. The first person in your family to earn a college degree will be you — and the financial support to get there is already waiting.