Top First-Generation Scholarships to Apply for in May 2025

First-generation college student scholarships have helped many individuals, especially in recent years. Although definitions may vary, the term 'first-generation' most commonly refers to students who come from households where neither parent has a four-year college degree.

First-generation students struggle with many obstacles, as shown by these key statistics from First Gen Forward, a non-profit organization supported by research from RTI International.

1. 24% of first-generation students graduate within six years as opposed to 59% of continuing-graduation students.
2. First-generation students earn a median of $2,000 less than their continuing-graduation counterparts.
3. Out of the respondents polled, first-gen students were 11% less likely to be able to come up with $2,000 in emergency funds.

For many of these students, procuring financial assistance is vital to paying for university and finding success post-graduation.

As a scholarship provider, Bold.org knows that obtaining any scholarship helps alleviate the financial burden of higher education. In this guide, we'll go over:

1. Exclusive list of first-generation scholarships
2. Externally-funded first-generation student awards
3. How to fill out scholarship applications

Certain factors can improve your chances of winning financial support, such as applying for scholarships with specific requirements (like first-generation scholarships). Keep reading for more insights on how to secure the financial aid you need for college!

If you are a first-generation college student, create a free applicant profile with Bold.org to help fund college with exclusive scholarships!

Best First-Generation Scholarships

1. Scholarships for Undergraduate Students

Scholarships for undergraduate students aim to ease the burden of college costs, offering financial support based on various criteria such as academic excellence, community involvement, specific talents, or personal backgrounds. This diverse array of scholarships targets students of all majors and has few eligibility requirements.

2. Full-Tuition Scholarships

Full-tuition scholarships are the unicorns of scholarships, and everyone wants them. For first-generation students, however, they're even more crucial because they lack the parental college experience that many others are lucky enough to receive. Getting all your tuition paid for guarantees you the time and space to focus on making the most of your college experience!

3. Need-Based Scholarships

First-generation students often come from low-income families which makes these need-based scholarships a great fit! These scholarships prioritize financial need for academic and extra-curricular merit, so don't worry if your grades or community involvements aren't absolutely perfect!

First-Generation Scholarships for Minorities

1. Scholarships for Hispanic Students

73% of Hispanic students were first-generation in 2024, according to new data sheets released by First Gen Forward. This makes them the largest demographic group among first-generation students and a key group for many scholarships.

2. Scholarships for Black Students

Coming in second for the percentage of first-generation students were those identifying as Black. These scholarships for Black Students aim to bridge the gap between first-gen and continuing-graduation students with financial support, making graduation more feasible!

3. Scholarships for Native American Students

Native American students also have high proportions of first-generation students in their ranks, often because they don't have access to universities while living on reserves. These scholarships understand the unique struggles faced by Native American students and provide targeted financial aid to help with those struggles.

These general scholarships for minority students may also be a great option to expand your scholarship search!

How to Apply for Financial Aid as First-Generation College Students

Applying to first-generation scholarships is just like applying to other scholarships. It requires careful research and dedication to meet all of the application requirements. In general, the following is a list of important steps to take as you apply for a first-generation scholarship.

1. Exploring Scholarship Opportunities

Conducting research is crucial to finding the right first-generation scholarship for you. You can most easily find first-generation scholarships through websites, your school's college counselor (if you have one), and scholarship search engines. These sources can help you find scholarships funded by a variety of sources, ranging from public companies to individuals.

Furthermore, not only are there many first-generation student scholarships to choose from that are funded by third parties, but if you are already accepted to an accredited institution, your school may also offer scholarships specifically for first-generation college students. Reach out to your school's financial aid office to find out what opportunities await you.

2. Fill out the FAFSA

Be sure to fill out your FAFSA or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. FAFSA has a section asking about first-generation status, and filling this out may help guide you toward relevant scholarships. Some scholarships even require that you fill out your FAFSA to submit your application, so doing so in advance may save you time.

We've got you covered with our nine key tips for applying to the updated FAFSA form!

3. Understanding and Meeting Eligibility Requirements

Be sure to read the application carefully. Before even beginning the application process, examining the due date and the eligibility requirements is crucial. Some first-generation scholarships may have requirements outside of first-generation status.

For instance, one scholarship may be only for first-generation students who are high school seniors. Whatever the case, make sure that you meet the eligibility requirements before you begin applying.

4. Preparing Your Materials for the Application Process

Often, first-generation college student scholarships may require an essay responding to a prompt. You should take the time to write a thoughtful essay and then proofread all written materials. Similarly, if external materials like transcripts or letters of recommendation are required, it is important to procure these early on.

Tips for Applying for First-Generation Scholarships

1. Ask for Recommendation Letters Early

Asking for recommendation letters many weeks in advance can help your teachers, counselors, or mentors prepare an outstanding statement about your character and merit. Too often, students request recommendation letters just a few days before the deadline, which can cause recommenders to produce rushed letters that don't contribute anything to your application.

2. Don't Limit Yourself

You should not limit yourself to only first-generation scholarships. There are numerous scholarships available for students from all backgrounds, and exploring these opportunities can increase the chances of receiving financial aid. Remember, the more the merrier!

You should consider applying for scholarships based on your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and unique talents. Some demographic-based scholarships might also be excellent opportunities if you're from a minority group.

3. Highlight First-Generation Status

When writing personal statements or essays, you should emphasize your unique experiences as first-generation college students. Discussing the challenges overcome and goals set can showcase determination and resilience, capturing the attention of scholarship review boards.

Need additional guidance with letters of recommendation? Look no further than our ultimate guide to recommendation letters!

Additional Resources for First-Generation College Students

1. RSM First Generation Scholarship

This first-generation scholarship is a big one, offering $30,000 paid over three consecutive years. To apply, you'll need to submit a 1,500-word personal essay and a 60-second video demonstrating your motivations and your future path as a first-generation student.

2. Fontana Transport Inc. Scholars Program

This program is for underrepresented, low-income, and first-generation college-bound students pursuing degrees in specific fields such as transportation, math, science, engineering, architecture, and more. It offers $5,000 and requires a minimum 3.5 GPA.

3. Editor World Scholarship

For first-generation students applying to master's or doctorate programs, this scholarship will provide $1,000 to cover any educational expenses associated with your graduate degree, such as books, supplies, or travel. You must already be accepted into a graduate program to apply.

Are you looking for scholarships for graduate students? Check out these exclusive graduate student scholarships now!

Frequently Asked Questions About First-Generation Scholarships

Am I a first-gen student if my parents started college but didn't complete their degrees?

Yes! As long as your parents did not graduate or receive any college degree, including an associate's or bachelor's, you qualify as a first-generation student. Your parents may have taken college courses and obtained college credit, but that is different from formally graduating and receiving a college diploma.

Do I qualify for first-gen scholarships if my siblings attended college but my parents did not earn a bachelor's degree?

Yes, you may still be eligible for first-generation scholarship opportunities if your immediate family members—specifically your parents—have not earned a bachelor’s degree. Many colleges define first-gen scholarships based solely on your parents’ education, so it's important to carefully review the additional criteria of each scholarship application.

Can I receive federal and state grants in addition to first-gen scholarships?

Yes, you can often combine first-generation scholarship opportunities with federal and state grants to support your college journey. Being the first person in your family to pursue a degree can open doors to multiple funding sources designed to help future generations break barriers in higher education.

Don't forget to check out our scholarship blog for more key insights on everything college and financial aid-related!