Becoming the first in your family to attend college is an impressive accomplishment, but it often comes with financial challenges. First-generation college students frequently face unique obstacles, such as limited financial resources and a lack of guidance throughout the college application process. Thankfully, many universities and organizations offer scholarships specifically for first-generation students, helping to ease these difficulties and providing access to valuable opportunities. This article explores some of the top scholarships available to first-generation college students in 2025, and offers tips on how to apply.
The Importance of Supporting First-Generation College Students
First-generation college students are those whose parents or guardians did not complete a college degree. These students often come from low-income backgrounds and may lack the academic resources and social capital that others benefit from. Despite these challenges, first-generation students exhibit tremendous resilience, determination, and commitment to their education. To support these students, many scholarships are available to alleviate financial burdens and recognize their unique challenges.
Best Scholarships for First-Generation College Students in 2025
Here are some of the top scholarships that first-generation students can apply for in 2025:
1. University of California, Berkeley – First-Generation Scholarship Program
- Eligibility: First-generation college students
- Coverage: Varies (Tuition assistance, living expenses, books, and fees)
- Application Deadline: February 2025
The First-Generation Scholarship Program at UC Berkeley is designed to support students who are the first in their family to attend college. It offers varying levels of financial aid, including assistance with tuition, living expenses, books, and other fees.
- Key Features:
- Varies in coverage based on financial need
- Includes tuition and living expenses
- How to Apply: Visit UC Berkeley's Financial Aid website for application details.
2. QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
- Eligibility: First-generation college students from low-income families
- Coverage: Full tuition, fees, room, and board
- Application Deadline: September 2025
QuestBridge’s National College Match Scholarship provides full coverage for tuition, fees, room, and board at prestigious universities across the U.S. It partners with over 40 top schools to offer this scholarship to academically exceptional first-generation students from low-income backgrounds.
- Key Features:
- Full scholarship for tuition and living expenses
- Available at top U.S. universities
- How to Apply: Visit the QuestBridge website to apply.
3. Coca-Cola Scholars Program
- Eligibility: High school seniors, first-generation students, and those demonstrating leadership and community service
- Coverage: $20,000 (One-time scholarship)
- Application Deadline: October 2025
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program awards $20,000 to high school seniors, particularly those who are first-generation college students. The scholarship recognizes academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement.
- Key Features:
- $20,000 scholarship for undergraduate studies
- Emphasis on leadership and community service
- How to Apply: Learn more and submit your application on the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation website.
4. The Posse Foundation Scholarship
- Eligibility: First-generation students with leadership potential
- Coverage: Full tuition, mentorship, and internship opportunities
- Application Deadline: Varies by school (Typically December 2025)
The Posse Foundation offers full-tuition scholarships to first-generation students who exhibit leadership potential. In addition to financial aid, the program includes mentorship, internship opportunities, and career preparation support.
- Key Features:
- Full tuition, plus mentorship and internships
- Available at select universities across the U.S.
- How to Apply: Visit the Posse Foundation website for details.
5. TRIO Program Scholarships
- Eligibility: First-generation students from low-income backgrounds
- Coverage: Varies (Tuition assistance, academic support, counseling)
- Application Deadline: Varies by institution
The TRIO Program, a set of federal initiatives, offers scholarships and support services to help first-generation students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This program includes financial aid, academic counseling, and additional resources for success in college.
- Key Features:
- Financial assistance and academic support
- Available at participating colleges and universities
- How to Apply: Check with your school to see if they participate in the TRIO Program.
6. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program
- Eligibility: High-achieving, first-generation students with financial need
- Coverage: Up to $40,000 per year
- Application Deadline: November 2025
The Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship Program offers up to $40,000 annually to first-generation students with demonstrated financial need. This competitive scholarship covers tuition, fees, and living expenses.
- Key Features:
- Up to $40,000 per year
- Covers tuition, fees, and living expenses
- How to Apply: Visit the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation website for more details.
7. Dell Scholars Program
- Eligibility: First-generation students committed to education and community service
- Coverage: $20,000 over six years, laptop, and textbook credits
- Application Deadline: December 2025
The Dell Scholars Program provides $20,000 over six years, plus additional support like a laptop and textbook credits. The program also includes mentoring and academic guidance to help students achieve long-term success.
- Key Features:
- $20,000 over six years, plus laptop and textbook credits
- Mentorship and support network
- How to Apply: Learn more and apply through the Dell Scholars website.
Tips for Applying to Scholarships
- Start Early: Many scholarships have early deadlines, so begin your research and application process well in advance.
- Provide Strong References: Ask teachers, mentors, or community leaders for letters of recommendation.
- Highlight Your Challenges: Emphasize your experience as a first-generation student in your personal statement or essay.
- Stay Organized: Track deadlines, requirements, and necessary documents to avoid missing opportunities.
Pursuing a college degree as a first-generation student can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships available in 2025 to help make higher education more accessible. By applying for the scholarships mentioned in this article, first-generation students can secure the financial support they need to succeed and thrive in their academic pursuits.