Top First-Generation Scholarships to Apply for in May 2025
Be the first in your family to graduate with these first-generation scholarships, hosted and awarded directly by Bold.org. Apply today with easy applications and no fees.
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Future Women In STEM Scholarship
Funded byKeisha DurhamThis scholarship seeks to foster gender equity in male-dominated fields by supporting women who are pursuing STEM disciplines.- Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
- Gender: Female-identifying
- Field of Study: STEM
- Background: Member of a historically underrepresented group
$1,040Deadline:Dec 01, 2025One Click Apply1Charles Cheesman's Student Debt Reduction Scholarship
Funded byCheesman FamilyThis scholarship will provide for college students or adults currently in a career, who have student debt. Students must be African American or Hispanic/Latino and first-generation students in order to apply.- Education Level: Undergraduate or graduate student, college graduate
- Race/Ethnicity: African American or Hispanic/Latino
- Debt Status: Has student loan debt
- Background: Was/is a first generation student
$10,240Deadline:Nov 30, 2025One Click Apply2Josh Edwards Memorial Scholarship For Creative Artists
Funded byHolly LloydThis scholarship seeks to honor the legacy of Josh Edwards by supporting students who share his calling to artistic endeavors.- Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
- Background: First-generation college student
- State: North Carolina
- Field of Study: Music, art, photography, or writing
$1,000Deadline:Jul 07, 2025One Click Apply3First Generation College Scholarship
Funded byJames HongThis scholarship aims to support first-generation immigrants who are paving a new path in their families through their pursuit of higher education.- Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
- Background: First-generation college student and immigrant
- Financial Status: Financial need
$4,000Deadline:Jul 21, 2025One Click Apply4Dr. Christine Lawther First in the Family Scholarship
Funded byChristine LawtherThis scholarship aims to support students who are forging new paths for their families by obtaining college degrees.- Background: First-generation college student
- Education Level: Four-year undergraduate student
$1,100Deadline:Jul 23, 2025One Click Apply5José Ventura and Margarita Melendez Mexican-American Scholarship Fund
Funded byBorders FamilyThis scholarship seeks to honor the memory of José Melendez by supporting students who are currently pursuing or looking to begin an undergraduate degree.- Education Level: High school graduate currently pursuing or looking to begin an undergraduate degree
- Identity: Mexican or Mexican-American
- Background: First-generation college student
- Experience: Work or significant volunteer experience
$3,000Deadline:Dec 01, 2025One Click Apply6Thadford Dickerson and Paula Schuman Scholar Award
Funded byTemel Dickerson and Nadja VielotThis scholarship aims to honor the lives of Thadford Dickerson and Dr. Paula Schuman by supporting students who are pursuing public service careers.- State: North Carolina
- Field of Study: Public service (healthcare, public health, first-responder, safety, etc.)
- Background: First-generation, low-income student
- Education Level: Undergraduate (2 or 4-year degree) or trade school student
$4,350Deadline:Jun 15, 2025One Click Apply7HBCU STEM Scholarship
Funded byChrispin RainfordThis scholarship seeks to support students who have faced challenges in their life so they have the help necessary to succeed in college.- Identity: FGLI (first-generation and low-income)
- GPA: 3.0 or higher
- Field of Study: STEM
- Education Level: Undergraduate
- Current College: HBCU
$7,650Deadline:Jun 20, 2025One Click Apply8Ronald and Betty Thomas Educational Scholarship
Funded byThe Thomas Family, Ron & BettyThis scholarship will support high school students in Florida majoring in education.- Background: First-generation college student
- Desired Major: Education
- GPA: 3.0
- Education Level: High school
- State: Florida
$2,000Deadline:Jun 11, 2025One Click Apply9Golden State First Gen Scholarship
Funded bySirleaf-GaskinThis scholarship aims to support first-generation BIPOC students so they can access higher education and pave the path to their futures.- Education Level: Undergraduate student
- State: California
- Race: BIPOC
- Background: First-generation college student
$1,000Deadline:May 05, 2025One Click Apply10Elite Security International Scholarship
Funded byElite Security InternationalThis scholarship aims to support students who are walking a new path by pursuing a college education so they can create a new legacy for their families.- Education Level: High school senior
- State: Texas
- Background: First-generation college student
$1,000Only 4 days left!One Click Apply11Ubuntu Scholarship
Funded byMelissa SandovalThis scholarship will support minority high school seniors pursuing postsecondary higher education.- Education Level: High School Senior
- Location: Harlem, New York
- GPA: 3.0
$500Only 5 days left!One Click Apply12Mikey Taylor Memorial Scholarship
Funded byAmber DavisThis scholarship will support first generation college students who have overcome mental health challenges.- Education Level: High school or undergraduate
- Background: First generation college student and experience with mental health challenges
$500Only 6 days left!One Click Apply13Scholar Budget Define Your Dream Scholarship
Funded byThe Scholar BudgetThis scholarship aims to support students who have big dreams for their academic and professional future.- Financial Status: Low-income
- Background: First-generation college student
- Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
- GPA: 3.0 or higher
$500Only 6 days left!One Click Apply14Dounya Irrgang Scholarship for College Reading Materials
Funded byDounya IrrgangThis scholarship seeks to support young women pursuing higher education by helping to cover the cost of essential reading materials and other necessities.- Education Level: Undergraduate student
- Background: First-generation college student
- Financial Status: Low-income
- Gender: Female-identifying
$500Only 15 days left!One Click Apply15The GEAR UP & TRIO Scholarship
Funded byThe Scholar BudgetThis scholarship aims to support students who are underserved so they can have opportunities for higher education and professional success.- Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
- Background: Member of GEAR UP or TRIO programs
- GPA: 2.5+
$2,000Only 18 days left!One Click Apply16Tom LoCasale Developing Character Through Golf Scholarship
Funded byLoCasale Family and FriendsThis scholarship seeks to honor Tom LoCasale’s life by supporting students who have learned valuable life skills through the sport of golf.- Education Level: High school senior
- Athletics: Plays golf
$3,000Only 20 days left!One Click Apply17Sean Kelly Memorial Scholarship
Funded bySean Kelly FamilyThe Sean Kelly Memorial Scholarship aims to honor Sean by supporting high school seniors from low income families who are interested in pursuing an undergraduate degree.- Education Level: High school senior
- GPA: 3.5
- Background: First-generation
- Sport: Any
$8,206Only 20 days left!One Click Apply18Edwards-Maxwell Scholarship
Funded byAmera EdwardsThis scholarship seeks to honor the legacy of Michael J. Edwards by supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education in the United States.- Education Level: Undergraduate or graduate student
- Background: First-generation college student
- Status: International student
$500Only 25 days left!One Click Apply19First-Gen Futures Scholarship
Funded byThriveThis scholarship aims to recognize and support exceptional students who are overcoming the barriers of being the first in their families to attend college.- Education Level: High school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student
- Citizenship Status: U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Background: First-generation college student
$1,000Only 27 days left!One Click Apply20Hispanic Achievement Scholarship
Funded byGarciaThis scholarship aims to support Hispanic students who are preparing to transition from high school to college so they can have all the tools for success.- Education Level: High school senior
- GPA: 3.0 or higher
- State: New York
- Identity: Hispanic
- Background: First-generation college student
- Citizenship Status: U.S. citizen, permanent legal resident, or DACA recipient
$1,540Only 27 days left!21Dr. Michael Paglia Scholarship
Funded byAmber WojcikThis scholarship aims to honor the life of Dr. Michael Paglia by helping students overcome the barriers they face so they can achieve their ambitions.- Education Level: Undergraduate or graduate student
- Background: First-generation college and graduate student
- Financial Status: Comes from a lower socioeconomic status
- Field of Study: Healthcare
$1,000Only 30 days left!One Click Apply22New Beginnings Immigrant Scholarship
Funded byChristopher FranksThis scholarship seeks to support immigrant students so they can continue working toward their educational goals.- Education Level: High school senior, undergraduate, trade school, or graduate student
- Identity: Immigrant
- Background: First-generation student
$500Only 30 days left!One Click Apply23Fuerza de V.N.C.E. Scholarship
Funded byJavier SegoviaThis scholarship aims to support underserved students who are paving a new path in their families by pursuing a college education.- Education Level: Four-year undergraduate student
- Field of Study: Social work
- Identity: Underrepresented minority
- Background: First-generation college student
- GPA: At least 3.0
$500Deadline:Jun 11, 2025One Click Apply24Jose Prado Memorial Scholarship
Funded byMIRTA PradoThis scholarship will support an undergraduate Hispanic/Latinx student as they pursue higher education.- Education Level: Undergraduate
- Race/Ethnicity: Hispanic/Latinx
- Background: First generation college student
$500Deadline:Jun 25, 2025One Click Apply25Mark Caldwell Memorial STEM/STEAM Scholarship
Funded byRick CaldwellThis scholarship is intended to honor the memory of Mark Caldwell by encouraging students with financial need to work toward STEM or STEAM careers.All students are eligible$600Deadline:Jun 25, 2025One Click Apply26Hubert Colangelo Literacy Scholarship
Funded byLupe ColangeloThis scholarship seeks to support students who are mostly self-funding their education so they have the assistance they need to succeed.- Education Level: High school senior
- Financial Status: Financial need
- Identity: Underrepresented Minority
- Identity: First-generation and/or has at least one immigrant parent
$600Deadline:Jun 30, 2025One Click Apply27S3G Advisors NextGen Scholarship
Funded bySunil AgarwalThis scholarship seeks to support the next generation of students who plan to do big things by forging their own paths.- Education Level: Undergraduate student
- Race: BIPOC
- Field of Study: STEM, business, or other disciplines with a strong problem-solving or innovation focus
- Background: First-generation college student
- Location: From the Midwest attending a Midwest state school
$5,000Deadline:Jun 30, 2025One Click Apply28Kristinspiration Scholarship
Funded byKristin PrintonThis scholarship aims to support students who are following their dreams and pursuing college in order to pave the way for future generations of their family.- Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
- Gender: Female-identifying
- Background: First-generation college student
$1,000Deadline:Jul 01, 2025One Click Apply29Marie J. Lamerique Scholarship for Aspiring Scholars
Funded byJose LameriqueThis scholarship aims to honor the life of Marie J. Lamerique by supporting students who grew up in single-parent households.- Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
- Race: Black
- Gender: Male-identifying
- Background: Grew up in a single-parent household
$1,000Deadline:Jul 01, 2025One Click Apply30
About First-Generation Scholarships
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.
For many of these students, procuring financial assistance is vital to entering into a university program and procuring a bachelor's degree. Furthermore, not only do a mere 26% of first-generation students actually earn a bachelor's degree, but a first-generation student is also nearly twice as likely as a non-first-generation student to struggle to afford tuition and fees.
In the past, many colleges have overlooked the struggles of first-generation students due to concerns about how programs to help first-generation students may conflict with existing efforts to help low-income and minority students.
Conversely, colleges have also made the mistake of believing that the existing efforts towards helping low-income and minority students are already serving first-gen students, as first-generation college students often have intersecting identities as underrepresented students. However, the needs of a first-generation college student are unique, so unique sources of financial aid are necessary.
Fortunately, there are now plenty of resources that exist to help make college accessible to first-generation students. As opposed to taking out federal student loans or private student loans, scholarships provide a form of financial aid that does not have to be paid back, allowing first-generation college students with financial needs to pursue a college degree without the financial concern.
At Bold.org, as a scholarship provider, we know that not only does obtaining any scholarship help alleviate the financial burden of higher education, but applying for scholarships with narrow specifications, such as a first-generation college student scholarship, can increase an applicant's chances of obtaining the scholarship.
If you are a first-generation college student, apply for scholarships geared toward first-gen students to help fund your pursuit of higher education!
Am I a First-Generation Student if My Parents Started College but Did Not Complete Their Degrees?
Usually, if your parents have taken some college courses or have even completed community college, you will still be considered a first-generation student. Still, requirements may vary between scholarships and schools, so you can check by contacting the source behind your scholarship, your school's admissions office, academic advising, or student services.
Best First-Generation Scholarships
While the availability of first-generation scholarships varies depending on the institution and organization offering them, here are some prestigious scholarship opportunities that support first-generation college students:
The Coca-Cola Scholars First-Generation Scholarship
The Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship is a grant program funded by The Coca-Cola Foundation, distinct from the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. It does not have a direct application process. Instead, the Foundation allocates funds to various colleges annually, which then distribute these grants through their financial aid systems.
To find out if a college is a recipient of these funds and thus offers the scholarship, students should inquire with the financial aid offices of the colleges where they are submitting their financial aid documents.
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.
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.
These scholarships can cover a range of expenses, from tuition fees to living costs, ensuring that students can focus more on their studies and less on financial worries. Explore a diverse array of scholarships designed to help undergraduates achieve their academic and professional dreams.
Scholarships for College Students
The path through college is both intellectually rewarding and financially challenging. Scholarships for college students are crucial in providing the financial lifeline many need to navigate through their college years successfully. These scholarships come in many forms, from merit-based awards recognizing academic achievements and talents to need-based grants aiding those in challenging financial situations.
These scholarship opportunities are just a few examples of the many opportunities available to first-generation college students. It is important to note that each scholarship has its own unique eligibility criteria and application process. Students should carefully research and review the requirements for each scholarship they are interested in to ensure they meet the necessary qualifications.
Are you a first-generation college student with financial need? Check out these need-based scholarships today!
How to Apply for First-Generation Scholarships
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.
Exploring Scholarship Opportunities
First, 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.
Understanding and Meeting Application Requirements
Conducting research is also 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.
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.
Preparing Your Application Materials
It is also important to gather all the application materials for submission ahead of the due date. Often, first-generation college student scholarships may require an essay responding to a prompt. Applicants 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.
Finalizing and Submitting Your Application
Finally, make sure you submit your application on time!
Are you looking for scholarships for graduate students? Check out these exclusive graduate student scholarships now!
Tips for Applying for First-Generation Scholarships
Applying for scholarships can be a daunting task, but with careful preparation and the right approach, students can significantly improve their chances of securing these valuable awards. Here are some tips to help students navigate the first-generation scholarship application process:
Research Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, students should carefully review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship they are interested in. Some scholarships may have specific GPA requirements and community involvement criteria or require essays on specific topics.
Gather Supporting Documents
Most scholarships will require students to submit supporting documents, such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statements. It is essential for students to gather these materials well in advance to ensure a smooth application process.
Highlight First-Generation Status
When writing personal statements or essays, students should emphasize their 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.
Seek Letters of Recommendation
Requesting letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors who can speak to your academic abilities, character, and potential can strengthen scholarship applications. These letters provide valuable insights into the student's qualifications and dedication.
Proofread and Edit
It is crucial for students to thoroughly review their scholarship applications, ensuring they are free from grammatical errors and typos. Seeking the input of teachers, parents, or mentors can provide valuable feedback and help polish the final application.
While following these tips can greatly enhance a student's chances of securing first-generation scholarships, it is also important to remember that the application process is just the beginning.
Once a student is awarded a scholarship, they may need to fulfill certain obligations to maintain it. These obligations can include maintaining a certain GPA, participating in community service activities, or attending scholarship events.
Furthermore, students should not limit themselves 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.
Students should consider applying for scholarships based on their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and unique talents.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common definition of "first-generation college student" is someone who comes from a household where neither parent has a four-year college degree; however, the specific definition and qualifications may vary between scholarships. For instance, while one scholarship may use the aforementioned definition, another may define a first-generation college student as the first person in a family to attend a four-year college. As you research different scholarships, make sure the definition used by the relevant scholarship is applicable to you.
The sooner you start applying for scholarships the better. With so many different first-generation scholarships to apply for, each with its own specific requirements, the deadlines between scholarships can vary greatly. In order to maximize the number of scholarships you can apply for and gain, it is best to start applying as early as possible. In fact, the Federal Student Aid Office in the United States Department of Education recommends that students begin searching for scholarships as early as the summer before their senior year.
Qualifications between scholarships may differ, so it is important to find the right one for you. Almost all scholarships will offer a description and a list of criteria required from applicants that want to be considered. These eligibility requirements oftentimes look at things like grade point average, school year, geographical location, race/ethnicity, gender, or, in this case, first-generation status.