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The Scholarships360 Research Team reviews all scholarships individually and strives to exclude any scholarship where any of the below applies:

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** Lead generation scholarships will require students to sign up for an app or website and require minimal (if any) application requirements.
***Idea harvesting scholarships will require students to submit blog posts or other materials that companies may use for marketing purposes.

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Top 31 First Generation Scholarships for Students in September 2023

Written by Will Geiger

Will Geiger is the co-founder of Scholarships360 and has a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. He is a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Kenyon College where he personally reviewed 10,000 admissions applications and essays. Will also managed the Kenyon College merit scholarship program and served on the financial aid appeals committee. He has also worked as an Associate Director of College Counseling at a high school in New Haven, Connecticut. Will earned his master’s in education from the University of Pennsylvania and received his undergraduate degree in history from Wake Forest University.

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Updated: September 19th, 2023

Will you be the first person in your immediate family to attend college? If so, you are a first-generation college student! There are numerous colleges and private organizations that offer first generation scholarships for students who will be the first in their family to attend college!

Generally, first generation scholarships are open to students whose parents have not earned a four year undergraduate degree. However, specific organizations and colleges may define first generation differently, so always double-check. Keep on reading to learn more about eligibility, award amount, and tips for how to find and win first generation scholarships!

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31 Scholarships
Sort by:
Minority/Women in STEM Scholarship
Minority/Women in STEM Scholarship

Offered by Bold.org

5 awards worth $500
Deadline Nov 15, 2023

Open to any BIPOC and/or female high school senior or undergraduate who is a first-generation, low-income student interested in STEM.

Open to any BIPOC and/or female high school senior or undergraduate who is a first-generation, low-income student interested in STEM.

Open to any BIPOC and/or female high school senior or undergraduate who is a first-generation, low-income student interested in STEM.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Seniors & College Students

Race/Ethnicity: Asian/Pacific Islander, Black/African, Hispanic/Latino, Native American

Other Category: Low Income, First-Generation Student, Women

Next steps

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Sharen and Mila Kohute Scholarship
Sharen and Mila Kohute Scholarship

Offered by Bold.org

2 awards worth $1,000
Deadline Oct 15, 2023

The Sharen and Mila Kohute Scholarship is a beacon of hope for first-generation female students who face unique obstacles when pursuing higher education. This scholarship…

The Sharen and Mila Kohute Scholarship is a beacon of hope for first-generation female students who face unique obstacles when pursuing higher education. This scholarship…

The Sharen and Mila Kohute Scholarship is a beacon of hope for first-generation female students who face unique obstacles when pursuing higher education. This scholarship honors the memory of Mila Kohute, who represents untapped potential, and Sharen Kohute, who personified hard work. Together, they inspire their family to create opportunities for new college students. This opportunity is open to female high school seniors and undergraduate students in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, or Virginia who are first-generation college students. To apply, tell the Kohute family about someone who has impacted your life by helping you discover your full potential.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Seniors & College Students

Other Category: First-Generation Student, Women

State: Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia

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$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship
$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

Offered by Scholarships360

1 award worth $10,000
Deadline Jun 30, 2024

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high…

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high…

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high school student who hopes to go to college, a graduate student who’s in a master’s program, or an adult learner who wants to return to school, you are eligible for our no essay scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded to students who get the most out of Scholarships360 scholarships and content. You will be a strong applicant if you apply to scholarships with the Scholarships360 platform. Finalists for this scholarship will be interviewed about their process for funding their education.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: All Grade Levels

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement

Next steps

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$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship
$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship

Offered by Sallie Mae

1 award worth $2,000
Deadline Sep 30, 2023

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for…

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for…

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for school.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: HS Upperclassmen, College & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents, DACA

Next steps

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$40,000 BigFuture Scholarships
$40,000 BigFuture Scholarships

Offered by The College Board

Multiple awards worth up to $40,000
Deadline Sep 30, 2023

Open to US-Based high school students in the classes of 2024 and 2025 — no essay, minimum GPA, test score, or citizenship requirements.

Open to US-Based high school students in the classes of 2024 and 2025 — no essay, minimum GPA, test score, or citizenship requirements.

Open to US-Based high school students in the classes of 2024 and 2025 — no essay, minimum GPA, test score, or citizenship requirements.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Juniors & Seniors

Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents, DACA

Next steps

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$25k “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship
$25k “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship

Offered by Bold.org

1 award worth $25,000
Deadline Oct 1, 2023

Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.

Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.

Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: All Grade Levels

Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement

Next steps

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José Ventura and Margarita Melendez Mexican-American Scholarship Fund
José Ventura and Margarita Melendez Mexican-American Scholarship Fund

Offered by Bold.org

1 award worth $1,000
Deadline Dec 1, 2023

The José Ventura and Margarita Melendez Mexican-American Scholarship Fund is a tribute to a beloved father who left the world too soon. Although his conditions…

The José Ventura and Margarita Melendez Mexican-American Scholarship Fund is a tribute to a beloved father who left the world too soon. Although his conditions…

The José Ventura and Margarita Melendez Mexican-American Scholarship Fund is a tribute to a beloved father who left the world too soon. Although his conditions made him unable to complete his own high school education, he ensured that each of his children were able to graduate from a four-year college, a testament to his unwavering support and commitment to their education. He believed that education held the key to unlocking opportunities and empowering individuals to create a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Thus, this scholarship aims to honor José Melendez's memory by supporting Mexican-American students who share his passion for education and overcoming barriers. Any Mexican or Mexican-American student who has graduated high school and is or will be a first-generation undergraduate student may apply for this scholarship. To apply, share your story and why you're passionate about being a first-generation, Mexican-American student.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Seniors & College Freshmen

Race/Ethnicity: Hispanic/Latino

Other Category: First-Generation Student

Next steps

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APHA Kaiser Permanente Community Health Scholarship
APHA Kaiser Permanente Community Health Scholarship

Offered by American Public Health Association

Multiple awards worth $15,000 - $20,000
Deadline Dec 16, 2023

The APHA Kaiser Permanente Community Health Scholarship is an initiative to create a group of diverse, underrepresented public health leaders who are committed to improving…

The APHA Kaiser Permanente Community Health Scholarship is an initiative to create a group of diverse, underrepresented public health leaders who are committed to improving…

The APHA Kaiser Permanente Community Health Scholarship is an initiative to create a group of diverse, underrepresented public health leaders who are committed to improving the health of our most vulnerable communities and supporting achievement of health equity for all in the nation. The scholarship supports the education of newly admitted graduate students beginning their MPH or DrPH/PhD in public health this upcoming fall at one of the APHA's eight partner universities. Preference is given to those who identify as first-generation college graduates; persons from lower socioeconomic backgrounds; and those who classify under race/ethnicity groups such as Black or African American, Asian, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian or Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, and individuals from other communities of color or underrepresented populations.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens

Academic Interest: Public Health

Other Category: Low Income, First-Generation Student

Next steps

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AANAPISI Scholarship
AANAPISI Scholarship

Offered by APIA Scholars

Multiple awards worth up to $5,000
Deadline Jan 9, 2024

Are you a first-generation or low-income college student from an Asian American or Pacific Islander background? Further, are you currently enrolled full-time at an AANAPISI…

Are you a first-generation or low-income college student from an Asian American or Pacific Islander background? Further, are you currently enrolled full-time at an AANAPISI…

Are you a first-generation or low-income college student from an Asian American or Pacific Islander background? Further, are you currently enrolled full-time at an AANAPISI (Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution) partner university? If so, consider applying for the AANAPISI scholarship! Each year, the scholarship awards up to $5,000 to eligible applicants who believe in the importance of community service and demonstrate the diversity of the APIA community. The scholarship is offered by APIA Scholars, the “nation’s leading non-profit organization devoted to the academic, personal and professional success of Asian & Pacific Islander Americans.” If you’re an Asian or Pacific Islander student at an AANAPISI partner institution who meets the eligibility criteria, we encourage you to apply for the AANAPISI Scholarship! 

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Race/Ethnicity: Asian/Pacific Islander

Other Category: Low Income, First-Generation Student

Next steps

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APIA Scholarship Program
APIA Scholarship Program

Offered by APIA Scholars

Multiple awards worth up to $20,000
Deadline Jan 9, 2024

The APIA Scholarship Program is funded by APIA Scholars, an organization that looks to make a difference in the lives of APIA students by providing…

The APIA Scholarship Program is funded by APIA Scholars, an organization that looks to make a difference in the lives of APIA students by providing…

The APIA Scholarship Program is funded by APIA Scholars, an organization that looks to make a difference in the lives of APIA students by providing them with resources that increase their access to higher education. Each year, their APIA Scholarship Program awards scholarships worth up to $20,000 to help multiple low-income or first-generation APIA students fund their education. If this scholarship sounds like a fit for you, keep on reading for more application details.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Senior

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Minimum GPA: 2.7

Race/Ethnicity: Asian/Pacific Islander

Other Category: Low Income, First-Generation Student

Next steps

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APF Queen-Nellie Evans Scholarship
APF Queen-Nellie Evans Scholarship

Offered by American Psychological Foundation

1 award worth $4,000
Deadline Jan 31, 2024

Are you a graduate student from an underrepresented minority group who is committed to improving communities of color, particularly communities of African descent? If so,…

Are you a graduate student from an underrepresented minority group who is committed to improving communities of color, particularly communities of African descent? If so,…

Are you a graduate student from an underrepresented minority group who is committed to improving communities of color, particularly communities of African descent? If so, you might consider applying for the APF Queen-Nellie Evans Scholarship! The APF Queen-Nellie Evans Scholarship is open to minority graduate students enrolled in accredited master's or doctoral programs. This scholarship is funded by the American Psychological Foundation, a grant-making organization that funds early career psychologists and graduate students. Each year, one lucky student is awarded the scholarship to help pay for their graduate studies with a focus on improving the disparity and issues that negatively impact communities of color. If you’re passionate about psychology and are looking for some help funding your graduate studies, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents, DACA, Other

Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement

Race/Ethnicity: Asian/Pacific Islander, Black/African, Hispanic/Latino, Native American

Other Category: Low Income, First-Generation Student

Next steps

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Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship
Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship

Offered by Bold.org

2 awards worth $1,000
Deadline Jul 31, 2024

Introducing the Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to a cherished father and the middle child among eleven siblings, whose circumstances compelled him to…

Introducing the Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to a cherished father and the middle child among eleven siblings, whose circumstances compelled him to…

Introducing the Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to a cherished father and the middle child among eleven siblings, whose circumstances compelled him to enter the workforce prematurely and leave his high school dreams behind. However, recognizing the limited job prospects available to him, he understood that obtaining his high school diploma was the key to unlocking a better life for his loved ones, and headed back to the classroom. This prestigious scholarship aims to honor the memory of Charles Pulling Sr. by empowering those who also wish to enhance their families' lives through education. Whether you are a high school or GED student, an undergraduate pursuing a non-traditional path, a first-generation student, a single parent, someone who took a break from education before returning, or over the age of 25, you are invited to apply. To apply, reveal what sets you apart as a non-traditional student and what fuels your relentless pursuit of greatness.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School & College Students

Other Category: Adult, First-Generation Student, Single Parent, Parent

Next steps

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First in the Family Scholarship
First in the Family Scholarship

Offered by National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS)

4 awards worth $2,500
Deadline Triannual

The First in the Family Scholarship will award outstanding First-Generation students with scholarships to help with tuition needs. Applicants must be registered NSCS members. Further…

The First in the Family Scholarship will award outstanding First-Generation students with scholarships to help with tuition needs. Applicants must be registered NSCS members. Further…

The First in the Family Scholarship will award outstanding First-Generation students with scholarships to help with tuition needs. Applicants must be registered NSCS members. Further scholarship information will be emailed to NSCS members.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Minimum GPA: 3.0

Other Category: Merit Based, First-Generation Student

Next steps

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First Generation Matching Grant Program
First Generation Matching Grant Program

Offered by Florida Department of Education

Multiple awards worth Varies
Deadline Varies

Are you a first-generation college student from Florida who is currently (or will soon be) attending a public Florida university? If so, consider applying for…

Are you a first-generation college student from Florida who is currently (or will soon be) attending a public Florida university? If so, consider applying for…

Are you a first-generation college student from Florida who is currently (or will soon be) attending a public Florida university? If so, consider applying for the First Generation Matching Grant Program! This is a need-based grant program offered to first-generation Florida residents attending any public university in the state. Bear in mind that each university has its own application procedure, deadline, eligibility criteria, and award amount. However, each will require you to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) in order to determine financial need. The program is provided by the Florida Department of Education. If you’re a first-generation college student and Florida resident who will soon be enrolling in a public Florida university, we encourage you to submit your FAFSA and apply! Be sure to check and complete your institution’s specific application requirements as well.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Other Category: Low Income, First-Generation Student

State: Florida

Next steps

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Chairish Design Your Future Scholarship
Chairish Design Your Future Scholarship

Offered by Chairish

2 awards worth $2,500
Deadline Biannual

Are you a high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student currently or planning to enroll in a postsecondary school? If so, consider applying to the…

Are you a high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student currently or planning to enroll in a postsecondary school? If so, consider applying to the…

Are you a high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student currently or planning to enroll in a postsecondary school? If so, consider applying to the Design Your Future Scholarship! Each year, the scholarship offers two $2,500 awards to applicants who write an essay about their dream future life and career, and how they plan on achieving such goals with the help of the scholarship. While every student is welcome to apply, bear in mind that preference will be given to underrepresented minorities and those pursuing design and engineering-related fields. The scholarship is funded by Chairish, an online, vintage furniture, art, and home accessories platform. If you want to “design your future” and potentially earn some money to fund your journey too, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Seniors, College & Graduate Students

Minimum GPA: 3.0

Race/Ethnicity: Black/African, Hispanic/Latino, Native American

Academic Interest: Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Engineering, Interior Design

Other Category: Disability, First-Generation Student

Next steps

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Brown Girls Do, Inc. College Scholarship
Brown Girls Do, Inc. College Scholarship

Offered by Brown Girls Do Ballet

Multiple awards worth $2,000
Expected deadline June 2024

The Brown Girls Do, Inc. College Scholarship is funded by Brown Girls Do Ballet, an organization dedicated to helping increase the participation of underrepresented populations…

The Brown Girls Do, Inc. College Scholarship is funded by Brown Girls Do Ballet, an organization dedicated to helping increase the participation of underrepresented populations…

The Brown Girls Do, Inc. College Scholarship is funded by Brown Girls Do Ballet, an organization dedicated to helping increase the participation of underrepresented populations in ballet programs. This awareness is brought through organizing and arranging ballet performances, photo exhibitions, and providing resources and scholarships to assist young girls in their ballet development and training. Each year, the Brown Girls Do, Inc. College Scholarship awards $2,000 to multiple, full-time, female undergraduate students of color with a strong dance background. Priority will be given to first-generation students in college who demonstrate financial need, however, we invite all who qualify to apply. If this scholarship sounds like a fit for you, keep on reading for more details.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Minimum GPA: Yes

Race/Ethnicity: Asian/Pacific Islander, Black/African, Hispanic/Latino, Native American

Academic Interest: Visual & Performing Arts, Dance

Other Category: Low Income, Athletic, First-Generation Student, Women

Next steps

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Douglass M. Hamilton Memorial Scholarship
Douglass M. Hamilton Memorial Scholarship

Offered by Bold.org

2 awards worth $7,500
Expected deadline June 2024

The Douglass M. Hamilton Memorial Scholarship is a beacon of hope for low-income students in Oregon. Pursuing higher education can be a daunting task, especially…

The Douglass M. Hamilton Memorial Scholarship is a beacon of hope for low-income students in Oregon. Pursuing higher education can be a daunting task, especially…

The Douglass M. Hamilton Memorial Scholarship is a beacon of hope for low-income students in Oregon. Pursuing higher education can be a daunting task, especially for those who face financial burdens. This scholarship is designed to honor the memory of Douglass M. Hamilton by providing financial assistance to low-income students who are first-generation college students. If you're a low-income student in Oregon, this exclusive scholarship opportunity is for you. To apply, share your story and detail the obstacles you've overcome, your family's background, and how you plan to use your education in the future. Apply and take the first step towards achieving your dreams!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: All Grade Levels

Other Category: Low Income, First-Generation Student

State: Oregon

Next steps

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Empowered Voices Scholarship
Empowered Voices Scholarship

Offered by Get Schooled

Multiple awards worth up to $1,000
Expected deadline June 2024

The Empowered Voices Scholarship is for Black, Brown, and first-generation-to-college students who are interested in learning about communications majors and careers. This communications career-focused scholarship…

The Empowered Voices Scholarship is for Black, Brown, and first-generation-to-college students who are interested in learning about communications majors and careers. This communications career-focused scholarship…

The Empowered Voices Scholarship is for Black, Brown, and first-generation-to-college students who are interested in learning about communications majors and careers. This communications career-focused scholarship encourages you to increase your awareness about the field’s many career opportunities. Applicants have the chance to earn one of the fifteen $1,000 scholarships.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Seniors & College Underclassmen

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Race/Ethnicity: Asian/Pacific Islander, Black/African, Hispanic/Latino

Academic Interest: Communications

Other Category: First-Generation Student

Next steps

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First Generation Fund
First Generation Fund

Offered by Brooksville Education Foundation

Multiple awards worth Varies
Expected deadline June 2024

The First Generation Fund is dedicated to supporting students who are the first in their families to pursue post-secondary education. This scholarship is designed to…

The First Generation Fund is dedicated to supporting students who are the first in their families to pursue post-secondary education. This scholarship is designed to…

The First Generation Fund is dedicated to supporting students who are the first in their families to pursue post-secondary education. This scholarship is designed to enhance any other scholarships the applicant may receive from the Foundation. Apply for a chance to receive help funding your postsecondary education!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Other Category: First-Generation Student

State: Maine

Next steps

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On To the Future (OTF)
On To the Future (OTF)

Offered by Geological Society of America

Multiple awards worth Varies
Expected deadline May 2024

On To the Future (OTF) is a scholarship opportunity for those pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies at an accredited North American institution or recent college…

On To the Future (OTF) is a scholarship opportunity for those pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies at an accredited North American institution or recent college…

On To the Future (OTF) is a scholarship opportunity for those pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies at an accredited North American institution or recent college graduates residing in North America. This scholarship is open to individuals from the following underrepresented communities in the geosciences: low-income, people of color, first-generation, non-traditional, women, veterans, LGBTQIA+, and/or persons with disabilities. Applicants must have never attended a GSA Connects annual meeting. If you fit this criteria, we encourage you to apply - don't take this opportunity for granite!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College & Graduate Students

Academic Interest: Earth Science

Other Category: Low Income, Adult, Disability, First-Generation Student, LGBTQ+, Veteran, Women

Next steps

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Douvas Memorial Scholarship
Douvas Memorial Scholarship

Offered by Wyoming Department of Education

1 award worth $500
Expected deadline May 2024

Are you a first-generation American (you were born in the United States, but your parents were not)? Further, are you a Wyoming resident and high…

Are you a first-generation American (you were born in the United States, but your parents were not)? Further, are you a Wyoming resident and high…

Are you a first-generation American (you were born in the United States, but your parents were not)? Further, are you a Wyoming resident and high school senior between the ages of 18 and 22? If all those statements apply, consider applying for the Douvas Memorial Scholarship! The scholarship awards $500 to one eligible applicant who enrolls at the University of Wyoming or a Wyoming community college. After a winner is chosen, the money is to be used for that student’s educational expenses for the upcoming school year. The scholarship was created by the Wyoming Department of Education in honor of Peter George Douvas, an immigrant from Greece who generously left a sum of his money to the Wyoming Department of Education.  If you’re a first-generation American, high school senior, and Wyoming resident, we encourage you to apply for the Douvas Memorial Scholarship!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Senior

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Other Category: First-Generation Student

State: Wyoming

Next steps

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Scholarship for First Generation Students
Scholarship for First Generation Students

Offered by Study.com

1 award worth $1,000
Expected deadline May 2024

Study.com's First Generation College Student Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for those who are the first in their family to pursue higher education. This scholarship…

Study.com's First Generation College Student Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for those who are the first in their family to pursue higher education. This scholarship…

Study.com's First Generation College Student Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for those who are the first in their family to pursue higher education. This scholarship offers a $1,000 academic award to any first-generation student who is currently pursuing their undergraduate or graduate degree. Don't miss out on this chance to further your education and pave the way for future generations!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Seniors, College & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens

Other Category: Low Income, First-Generation Student

Next steps

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Will you be the first person in your immediate family to attend college? If so, you are a first-generation college student! There are numerous colleges and private organizations that offer first generation scholarships for students who will be the first in their family to attend college!

Generally, first generation scholarships are open to students whose parents have not earned a four year undergraduate degree. However, specific organizations and colleges may define first generation differently, so always double-check. Keep on reading to learn more about eligibility, award amount, and tips for how to find and win first generation scholarships!

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How to win scholarships as a first generation student

As a first-generation college student, it’s no secret that you’ve probably had to work hard for the opportunities you’ve gotten! You know as well as us that whether you’re applying for small scholarships or worldwide opportunities, every little bit counts, which is why we want to help provide you with as many resources as possible.  

Being the first of a generation to go to college means you have a unique story. Being able to write about your story will no doubt be a key part of your academic journey. So, knowing how to write about yourself is going to be an important skill. It may also help you to be familiar with some of the most common scholarship essays.  College may not be the first thing you’ve done with your life. Take some time to explore how to build a scholarship resume that can highlight your accomplishments and work history outside of academics. Once you’ve done that you can explore tips about how to write winning scholarships essays and how to start your scholarship application essays

Resources for first generation college students

First generation college students often face unique barriers in their college application process. Because their parents have not gone through the same trials and tribulations, they may not be able to help as thoroughly as parents who have. First-generation college students should check if they qualify for CollegePoint, a free online resource that matches you with a current college student to counsel you through the entire application process.

Many schools also have specific programs and resource hubs for first-generation college students. For example, the FirstGen program at University of California schools is a great initiative to improve college accessibility aimed towards first generation students. These resources can help with admissions as well as adjusting to campus life when you’re enrolled. Similar programs exist across the country, so make sure to inquire about them at any school you’re considering.

Frequently asked questions about first-generation scholarships

Am I first generation if my siblings went to college?

Some organizations may define first generation as students whose parents and siblings do not have four year degrees. Others may say that you are only first generation if your parents have not received any degree at all (including two year degrees).

However, the most common definition is students whose parents have not completed four year college degrees. If you are interested in learning more about why being a first generation college student matters, check out this post!

Am I first gen if a parent started college, but did not finish?

Yes, the key part of being first generation is that your parents did not complete college. If they took a few classes or semesters, but did not ultimately graduate, you are first generation.

Do you have any application tips for first generation colleges students applying for scholarships?

Yes, we do! Our Ultimate Guide to Finding and Winning Scholarships is just what you’re looking for. This guide will help you also discover and apply for other great scholarships.

First generation college students can also apply for need-based financial aid through the FAFSA and for some colleges, the CSS Profile. This can allow students to access grants like the Pell Grant, federal student loans, state financial aid, and work-study

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