Best scholarships for first generation college students

Answer:

Here’s a list of some of the best scholarships for first-generation college students, meaning students whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree. These awards can be very generous and often include mentorship or extra support.

1. Dell Scholars Program (USA)

• Amount: \$20,000 + laptop + ongoing support
• Eligibility: U.S. citizens planning to enroll in a bachelor’s degree program, Pell Grant eligible, participating in an approved college readiness program.
• Extras: Academic, financial, and emotional support through college.

2. The Gates Scholarship

• Amount: Covers the full cost of attendance not already paid by other financial aid
• Eligibility: High school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are Pell-eligible, from minority groups, and first-generation students often prioritized.
• Extras: Leadership development and networking opportunities.

3. Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship

• Amount: Varies by partner university (often \$5,000–\$20,000)
• Eligibility: First-generation students at partner colleges in the U.S.
• Extras: Often paired with mentoring and leadership programs.

4. TELACU College Success Program

• Amount: \$5,000+ renewable
• Eligibility: First-generation, low-income students in California, Illinois, Texas, and New York.
• Extras: Summer internships, leadership development, and career guidance.

5. QuestBridge National College Match

• Amount: Full four-year scholarship (tuition, room, board, travel)
• Eligibility: High-achieving, low-income high school seniors (many are first-generation).
• Extras: Admission to top U.S. universities without application fees.

6. Horatio Alger Association Scholarships

• Amount: \$10,000–\$25,000
• Eligibility: First-generation and low-income students who have overcome significant challenges.
• Extras: Access to conferences, networking, and mentoring.

7. Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship

• Amount: \$1,000
• Eligibility: All students, but accessible for first-generation students.
• Extras: Simple application without GPA or income requirements.

8. Local & University-Specific First-Generation Awards

Many colleges and universities offer special scholarships for first-generation students. Examples:

• University of California First Generation Scholars Program
• Arizona State University First-Generation Scholarships
• Florida State University First Generation Matching Grant Program

If you want, I can prepare a country-specific list for your location so you’ll know exactly which first-generation scholarships you can apply for in 2025 and their deadlines.

Which country are you in right now?