Top Scholarships for First-Generation College Students
Being a first-generation college student is a huge achievement, but it can also come with financial challenges. Thankfully, many organizations offer scholarships specifically for students who are the first in their families to attend college. Here’s a list of top scholarships that can help make higher education more affordable.
1. The Gates Scholarship
Award: Full cost of attendance
Eligibility: High school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are first-generation college students.
Deadline: Typically in September
Website: www.thegatesscholarship.org
2. Coca-Cola First-Generation Scholarship
Award: Varies by institution
Eligibility: First-generation college students at participating colleges and universities.
Deadline: Varies by school
Website: Check with your college’s financial aid office.
3. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship
Award: Up to $55,000 per year
Eligibility: High-achieving high school seniors with financial need, including first-generation students.
Deadline: Usually in November
Website: www.jkcf.org
4. The Dell Scholars Program
Award: $20,000 plus additional support
Eligibility: First-generation students with financial need, minimum 2.4 GPA, and participation in a college readiness program.
Deadline: Typically in December
Website: www.dellscholars.org
5. First-Generation Matching Grant (Florida Residents)
Award: Varies by institution
Eligibility: First-generation Florida residents attending in-state colleges.
Deadline: Varies by school
Website: Check with your college’s financial aid office.
6. QuestBridge National College Match
Award: Full-ride scholarships to top colleges
Eligibility: High-achieving, low-income students who are often first-generation.
Deadline: Usually in September
Website: www.questbridge.org
7. The Generation Google Scholarship
Award: $10,000
Eligibility: First-generation students pursuing computer science or a related field.
Deadline: Usually in April
Website: buildyourfuture.withgoogle.com
8. Ron Brown Scholar Program
Award: $40,000 ($10,000 per year)
Eligibility: First-generation African American students with academic excellence and financial need.
Deadline: January 9
Website: www.ronbrown.org
9. First-Generation Civil Rights Fellowship
Award: Paid summer internships and mentorship
Eligibility: First-generation college students interested in civil rights careers.
Deadline: Varies
Website: www.lawyerscommittee.org
10. Horatio Alger Scholarship
Award: Up to $25,000
Eligibility: First-generation students with financial need and perseverance in overcoming obstacles.
Deadline: Typically in October
Website: www.horatioalger.org
Final Tips for First-Generation College Students
- Start early: Many scholarships have fall deadlines, so begin your search as early as possible.
- Write a strong essay: Many scholarships ask about your background and challenges—be authentic and compelling.
- Apply for multiple scholarships: The more you apply for, the better your chances of receiving aid.
- Check with your college: Many universities have their own first-generation scholarships—always ask your financial aid office.
Are you a first-generation college student? Let us know in the comments which scholarships you’re applying for!
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