How to Find Scholarships for First-Generation Students

The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) defines a first-generation student as someone whose parents have not completed a bachelor’s degree. Many scholarships use this definition as a starting point for eligibility.

Not every program follows NCES exactly. Some scholarships consider students whose parents earned an associate’s degree to still qualify as first-generation. Others may also recognize students whose parents attended college outside the United States, acknowledging that international college experience does not always provide the same guidance or access as U.S. institutions.

Before applying, you must check each scholarship’s specific rules as they relate to first-generation students.

Your FAFSA application also asks about your parents’ education level. This isn’t just for records—it can unlock aid specifically for first-generation students.

The key to leveraging your first-generation status is understanding the following:

• Know how each scholarship defines first-generation eligibility.
• Be precise on FAFSA and other applications regarding parental education.
• Don’t assume international or associate-level parental education disqualifies you.

By being aware of the scholarships’ definitions and checking requirements carefully, you can access funding opportunities designed to support your journey.

First-generation scholarships help students like you thrive. Knowing exactly how eligibility works allows you to maximize the support available as you pursue your college goals.

If you’re aiming to pay for college, FAFSA is your first step. It opens October 1 each year, and filing early can make a big difference in the aid you receive.

Your application can qualify you for these financial aid programs:

Federal Aid

The most well-known federal grant is the Pell Grant which, for the 2025-26 award year, provides up to $7,395 to students with financial need. In addition, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) offers extra need-based aid for students with exceptional financial need. Both programs do not require repayment, making them highly valuable for reducing college costs.

Private Scholarships

Many first-generation scholarships require a completed FAFSA as part of the application. This is because FAFSA includes questions about your parents’ education level, which can automatically flag your first-generation status. Accurately completing this section ensures that you are considered for these targeted opportunities.

State Grants

FAFSA also connects you to state grants, which often depend on filing this form. Each state has its own programs, from free tuition initiatives to smaller need-based awards, so completing FAFSA opens the door to multiple funding sources.

Work Study

Another important benefit of FAFSA is access to work-study programs. These allow you to earn money while gaining professional experience, helping to cover expenses without taking on extra debt.

FAFSA is very strict about meeting the requirements. Missing deadlines or skipping questions about parent education can mean leaving money on the table, so staying organized and proactive is one of the smartest steps you can take toward funding your education.

By completing FAFSA on time, you maximize your access to financial aid, reduce out-of-pocket costs, and open opportunities that support both your education and your long-term goals.

Eight main programs offer tutoring, advising, help with financial aid, and other support. Once you’re accepted, participation is free. These programs receive $1.191 billion in funding each year and serve more than 880,000 students annually.

Here’s a quick look at these programs and their top features:

Student Support Services (SSS)

• Offers tutoring and academic help
• Provides advice on financial aid and choosing courses

Upward Bound

• Supports high school students
• Offers academic enrichment, mentoring, and help with college preparation

Educational Opportunity Centers

• Help adults get into college or other postsecondary education
• Provide specific guidance relating to application, financial aid, and course choices

Talent Search

• Finds qualified middle and high school students
• Helps guide them toward college options

McNair Scholars Program

• Prepares students for graduate school
• Provides research experience, mentoring, and help with applications

Other programs in this federal network offer similar support for first-generation, low-income, and disabled students.

Key facts about joining these programs:

• About two-thirds of participants need to be first-generation or low-income
• Programs are free after you’re accepted
• Services include tutoring, mentoring, help with financial aid, and career planning

Numerous scholarships are at your disposal as a first-gen student. Here are some of the most well-known programs:

The Gates Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship for Pell-eligible minority students. About 300 students receive this award annually, covering tuition, fees, room, board, and more.

QuestBridge National College Match provides full scholarships to 55 top colleges for high-achieving students from households typically earning under $65,000 per year.

Dell Scholars Program awards $20,000, a laptop, textbook credits, and mentoring to 500 students annually. This program supports students throughout college, focusing on persistence and success.

Coca-Cola Scholars Program provides $20,000 to 150 high-achieving high school seniors nationwide. The program also emphasizes leadership, community service, and personal growth.

TMCF/Coca-Cola Foundation First Generation HBCU Scholarship offers $5,000 to students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), specifically targeting first-generation college students.

Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarships award up to $55,000 annually to high-achieving students with financial need. These scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, books, and fees, helping students attend selective colleges without heavy debt.

Horatio Alger Association Scholarships provide $10,000 to $25,000 for students who have overcome significant adversity, combining financial support with mentoring and guidance.

Each scholarship has its own eligibility rules, deadlines, and application steps, so be sure to check each one carefully and get your applications ready with care.

Many colleges offer need-based and merit-based aid specifically for first-generation students. These awards can make a big difference in your effort to cut college costs.

Contact the financial aid office directly. Ask about scholarships, grants, or matching programs for first-generation students. Some schools automatically consider first-gen students for aid. However, reaching out ensures you don’t miss anything.

Check programs that partner with states or institutions to offer targeted scholarships for eligible first-gen students. For example, the Florida First Generation Matching Grant Program combines state and institutional funds to award scholarships. Private universities like the UChicago First Phoenix Scholarship award $20,000 over four years to first-generation students.

Ask Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) that offer strong support for first-generation students. Typically, they offer scholarships, mentoring, and advising.

Look into highly selective schools, including Ivy League universities, that often cover full costs for low-income families. They may also replace loans with grants. It reflects a growing trend of “no-loan policies” to keep college affordable and reduce student debt.

When exploring your options:

• Ask about institutional first-gen awards beyond standard financial aid.
• Check for matching programs that combine state and school funds.
• Inquire about no-loan policies to minimize or eliminate student loans.
• Look for mentoring and support programs tied to first-generation scholarships.

It’s important to be proactive. First-generation aid isn’t always easy to find, and deadlines differ by school. By asking questions and doing your research, you can find funding that makes college affordable and access resources to help you succeed both academically and personally.