Top Scholarships Every First-Generation College Student Should Apply For

Going to college as a first-generation student is both exciting and challenging. On the one hand, you’re breaking new ground for your family, but on the other, you may not have the same level of guidance or financial support as students whose parents have already gone through the system. That’s where scholarships come in.

First generation scholarships don’t just provide financial aid they recognize the courage, determination, and resilience it takes to be the first in your family to attend college. In this post, we’ll cover what first-gen scholarships are, why they matter, and the top programs you should consider applying for today.

Why Scholarships Matter for First-Generation Students

Being first in your family to attend college often comes with financial strain. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, nearly half of first-gen students come from low-income households, making tuition, textbooks, and living expenses feel overwhelming.

Scholarships help bridge this gap by:

• Covering tuition and fees

• Paying for books and supplies

• Reducing the need for loans

• Allowing students to focus on academics instead of working long hours

But beyond money, scholarships also send a powerful message: “We believe in you.” For many first-gen students, this validation is just as valuable as the funding itself.

Tips for Applying as a First-Generation Student

Before diving into the top scholarships, here are a few strategies to make your applications stronger:

1. Tell Your Story – Share the challenges and triumphs of being first gen. Scholarship committees value perseverance.

2. Highlight Leadership & Community Involvement  Even if you don’t have perfect grades, show how you’ve made an impact.

3. Seek Support – Many colleges have first-gen student offices or advisors who can guide you.

4. Apply Early & Often – The earlier you start, the more opportunities you can pursue.

Top Scholarships for First-Generation College Students

Here are some of the best programs to explore (nationally recognized + a few unique ones).

1. Dell Scholars Program

• Award: $20,000 plus a laptop and textbook credits

• Eligibility: First gen students with financial need, minimum GPA of 2.4, participation in a college readiness program

• Why Apply: Beyond money, Dell Scholars receive mentorship and ongoing support perfect for navigating college as a first gen student.

2. Coca-Cola Scholars Program

• Award: $20,000

• Eligibility: High school seniors with leadership experience, academic achievement, and community service

• Why Apply: While not exclusively for first gen students, many winners are trailblazers in their families. It’s one of the most prestigious scholarships in the U.S.

3. First-Generation Matching Grant Program (State-Specific)

• Award: Varies by state, often several thousand dollars

• Eligibility: Must be a first gen student attending a participating state college or university

• Why Apply: If you’re staying in state, this program can significantly cut tuition costs. Check your state’s education department for details.

4. The Gates Scholarship

• Award: Full cost of attendance not already covered by financial aid

• Eligibility: Pell eligible, minority, high school seniors with strong academics and leadership

• Why Apply: While highly competitive, this scholarship can make college completely debt free for first-gen students.

5. TRIO/Upward Bound Grants & Scholarships

• Award: Varies by program

• Eligibility: First-gen students enrolled in TRIO or Upward Bound college prep programs

• Why Apply: If you’ve participated in TRIO, there are exclusive scholarships just for you.

6. Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship

• Award: $1,000

• Eligibility: Open to all students, including first-gen, with no GPA or income requirements

• Why Apply: A simple application that doesn’t require essays perfect to add to your list while tackling bigger scholarships.

7. Local & Community-Based Scholarships

Don’t forget to check:

• Your high school guidance office

• Local nonprofits

• Religious organizations

• Employers or unions (your own or your parents’)

Many local awards are smaller ($500–$2,000), but they’re much less competitive than national ones and they add up quickly.

How to Stay Organized

Applying for multiple scholarships can get overwhelming. Here are some tips to keep on track:

• Create a Spreadsheet: Track deadlines, requirements, and essay topics.

• Recycle Essays: Customize them, but don’t start from scratch every time.

• Set Weekly Goals: Aim to apply for at least 2–3 scholarships per week.

• Use Scholarship Search Tools: Websites like Fast web, Scholarships.com, and Cappex are great starting points.

Final Thoughts

Being a first-generation college student is a huge accomplishment in itself, but you don’t have to do it alone. Scholarships are out there waiting for you not just to fund your education, but to celebrate your determination and resilience.

Start with the programs above, keep your applications organized, and don’t be afraid to tell your story boldly. Remember: every dollar you win is one less you’ll owe later.

So grab your laptop, open that application form, and take the first step toward a debt free college journey. The future is wide open for first-gen students like you.