The journey to higher education is challenging for many, but for first-generation college students, it can feel like navigating uncharted territory. These students—often the first in their families to pursue a college degree—face unique hurdles, including financial burdens, limited guidance, and unfamiliar academic systems. Yet, their determination to succeed is unmatched. To support this ambition, numerous scholarships have been established specifically for first-generation students, providing not just funding, but validation and opportunity.
This article explores the importance of scholarships for first-generation college students, outlines some of the most generous and reputable awards available in 2025, and provides guidance on how to apply successfully.
Why First-Generation Scholarships Matter
Being a first-generation student often means stepping into the unknown. Without the benefit of parents or guardians who’ve experienced college themselves, these students must navigate admissions, financial aid, and academic expectations largely on their own. They may also face:
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Financial hardship
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Lack of mentorship
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Cultural or language barriers
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Imposter syndrome or self-doubt
Scholarships geared toward these students help level the playing field. Beyond financial relief, they often come with mentorship, networking opportunities, and academic support, fostering a more inclusive educational experience.
Top Scholarships for First-Generation Students in 2025
Here’s a curated list of scholarships still open or recurring annually, specifically for first-gen students in the U.S. and globally.
1. The Gates Scholarship (USA)
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Eligibility: First-generation, low-income minority high school seniors.
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Coverage: Full tuition, fees, room, board, books, and transportation.
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Bonus: Offers academic support, career counseling, and leadership development.
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Deadline: Typically in September.
Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship selects 300 students annually, providing a comprehensive college experience with zero cost.
2. Dell Scholars Program
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Eligibility: First-gen students with financial need and at least a 2.4 GPA.
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Award: $20,000 plus a free laptop, textbook credits, and ongoing mentorship.
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Deadline: Opens in November; deadline in January.
Dell Scholars aren’t chosen based on academic scores alone—the program values grit, potential, and ambition.
3. QuestBridge National College Match
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Eligibility: High-achieving, low-income students, many of whom are first-generation.
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Award: Full four-year scholarship to top U.S. colleges like Yale, Stanford, and MIT.
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Deadline: September annually.
QuestBridge matches students with elite institutions through a competitive application process, offering one of the most generous need-based scholarships in the country.
4. First Generation Matching Grant Program (Florida, USA)
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Eligibility: Florida residents who are first-generation college students.
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Award: Varies; matched funding from both state and institution.
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Institutions: Public universities and state colleges in Florida.
This state initiative encourages local institutions to invest in first-gen students, often leading to substantial financial support.
5. Generation Google Scholarship
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Eligibility: First-gen or underrepresented students in computer science.
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Award: $10,000 in the U.S. or $5,000 in Canada.
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Extras: Internship opportunities and access to Google mentors.
Google aims to bridge diversity gaps in tech through this powerful combination of funding and professional development.
6. Education First Scholarship (Select U.S. Cities)
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Eligibility: First-generation high school seniors demonstrating character and leadership.
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Award: $5,000 to $25,000.
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Available in: Cities like Boston, Austin, Denver, and Seattle.
Localized, high-impact, and deeply personal—Education First scholarships are often awarded during surprise ceremonies.
7. Hispanic Scholarship Fund
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Eligibility: Hispanic/Latino students; many are first-gen college attendees.
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Award: $500 to $5,000 based on need and merit.
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Deadline: February annually.
HSF supports students through financial aid, internship placement, and leadership training.
8. Flywire Charitable Foundation Scholarships
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Eligibility: First-generation students pursuing degrees in social justice, global health, or sustainability.
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Award: $5,000.
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Deadline: Typically in June.
This globally oriented scholarship program empowers students to solve the world’s most pressing challenges.
How to Apply Successfully
Winning a scholarship as a first-generation student requires strong storytelling, preparation, and follow-through. Here are key strategies to boost your chances:
✅ Tell Your Story Authentically
Scholarship committees are looking for passion, perseverance, and a personal mission. Be honest about the struggles you’ve faced and how they’ve shaped your goals.
✅ Highlight Your “First”
Explain what being a first-generation student means to you. How has it influenced your academic path, values, or ambitions?
✅ Gather Strong Recommendations
Ask teachers, counselors, or community leaders who truly know you and your journey to write your recommendations.
✅ Maintain Academic Consistency
While perfect grades aren’t always required, scholarship providers look for consistency, upward trends, and course rigor.
✅ Get Help if Needed
Use school counselors, local nonprofits, or online resources like:
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Scholarship Owl
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Going Merry
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BigFuture by College Board
International Opportunities for First-Gen Students
First-generation students exist around the globe. If you're applying from outside the U.S., consider these international-friendly opportunities:
🔹 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
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For African students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
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Full scholarship including tuition, housing, travel, and a stipend.
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Partners with universities in the U.S., Canada, and Africa.
🔹 DAAD EPOS Scholarships (Germany)
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For students from developing countries, including many first-gen learners.
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Offers full tuition, monthly stipends, travel, and health insurance.
🔹 Australia Awards Scholarships
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Fully funded by the Australian government for students from Asia, Africa, and the Pacific.
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Encourages first-gen, female, and underrepresented students to apply.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
One of the biggest unseen barriers for first-generation students is feeling like they don’t belong—especially in prestigious universities. Remember:
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You earned your place through hard work and merit.
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Your voice matters—first-gen students bring fresh perspectives to campuses.
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Support systems exist—mentorship programs, student groups, and academic coaches can help.