Undergraduate Scholarships for First-Generation College Students 2025

Being the first in your family to attend college is a significant achievement, but it can also come with financial challenges. First-generation college students often face unique barriers, such as limited access to financial resources and guidance on navigating the college application process. However, many universities and organizations offer undergraduate scholarships for first-generation college students to help ease these challenges and support students in achieving their academic goals. In 2025, there are numerous scholarships available specifically for first-generation college students, providing both financial aid and access to valuable opportunities. This article explores some of the best scholarships for first-generation students and how to apply.

Why First-Generation College Students Deserve Special Support

First-generation college students are those whose parents or guardians did not complete a college degree. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), these students often come from lower-income backgrounds and may lack the social and academic resources that other students may have. Despite these challenges, first-generation students demonstrate exceptional resilience, determination, and a strong commitment to their education.

To support these students in achieving their dreams of higher education, various scholarships are available that not only provide financial assistance but also recognize the unique challenges they face.

Top Scholarships for First-Generation College Students

Here are some of the best undergraduate scholarships for first-generation college students in 2025:

1. The First-Generation Scholarship Program (University of California, Berkeley)

Eligibility: First-generation college students
Coverage: Varies (Tuition support, living allowance, books, and fees)
Application Deadline: February 2025

The First-Generation Scholarship Program at the University of California, Berkeley, is specifically designed to support students who are the first in their families to attend college. This scholarship offers varying levels of financial aid, including tuition support, living expenses, books, and other necessary fees. It is open to first-generation students enrolled in undergraduate programs at UC Berkeley.

Key Features:

• Varies in coverage based on financial need
• Provides tuition support and living expenses
• Open to first-generation students at UC Berkeley

How to Apply:
Visit the UC Berkeley Financial Aid website to apply and check eligibility requirements for this scholarship.

2. The 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

The QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships available for first-generation students. This scholarship provides a full ride to top universities across the United States, covering tuition, fees, room, and board. QuestBridge partners with over 40 colleges and universities to offer this scholarship to students who have demonstrated academic excellence and come from low-income backgrounds.

Key Features:

• Full scholarship covering tuition, fees, and living expenses
• Open to first-generation and low-income students
• Partners with top universities in the U.S.

How to Apply:
Visit the QuestBridge website to apply and learn more about the eligibility requirements for the National College Match Scholarship.

3. Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship

Eligibility: High school seniors, first-generation college students, and those with a demonstrated commitment to leadership and community service
Coverage: $20,000 (One-time scholarship)
Application Deadline: October 2025

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is open to high school seniors, especially those who are first-generation college students. This prestigious scholarship awards $20,000 to students who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service. While the scholarship is a one-time award, it provides substantial support for the first year of undergraduate studies.

Key Features:

• $20,000 scholarship for undergraduate studies
• Emphasis on leadership and community involvement
• Open to first-generation students and high school seniors

How to Apply:
Visit the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation website to learn more and submit your application.

4. The Posse Foundation Scholarship

Eligibility: First-generation students who have shown leadership potential
Coverage: Full tuition, mentoring, and internship opportunities
Application Deadline: Varies by school (Typically December 2025)

The Posse Foundation Scholarship seeks to identify, recruit, and support diverse student leaders. This program offers scholarships to first-generation college students who show potential for leadership and academic success. The Posse Foundation partners with several U.S. universities to provide full-tuition scholarships, as well as mentoring, internships, and career preparation opportunities.

Key Features:

• Full-tuition scholarship for undergraduate studies
• Mentorship and internship opportunities
• Available at partner universities across the U.S.

How to Apply:
Visit the Posse Foundation website for detailed information on how to apply and see which universities are part of the program.

5. The TRIO Program Scholarships

Eligibility: First-generation students from low-income families
Coverage: Varies (Tuition assistance, academic support, and counseling services)
Application Deadline: Varies by institution

The TRIO Program is a set of federal initiatives designed to assist first-generation students in achieving higher education. Through grants, scholarships, and counseling, the TRIO Program helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed in college. TRIO scholarships are available at participating colleges and universities and provide support for tuition, books, and other necessary expenses.

Key Features:

• Financial assistance for tuition, books, and more
• Academic counseling and support
• Available to first-generation students from low-income families

How to Apply:
Check with your college or university to see if they participate in the TRIO Program and to learn more about the available scholarships.

6. The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program

Eligibility: First-generation students with academic excellence and financial need
Coverage: Up to $40,000 per year
Application Deadline: November 2025

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program provides financial support for high-achieving, first-generation college students with demonstrated financial need. The scholarship awards up to $40,000 per year, covering tuition, fees, and living expenses. This is a highly competitive scholarship that recognizes students with strong academic potential and leadership skills.

Key Features:

• Up to $40,000 per year for undergraduate study
• Open to first-generation students with financial need
• Covers tuition, fees, and living expenses

How to Apply:
Visit the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation website for detailed information and to begin your application.

7. The Dell Scholars Program

Eligibility: First-generation college students with a demonstrated commitment to education and community service
Coverage: $20,000 over six years, plus a laptop and textbook credits
Application Deadline: December 2025

The Dell Scholars Program is aimed at first-generation college students who have overcome significant obstacles in their educational journey. The scholarship offers $20,000 over six years, as well as a laptop and textbook credits to support students throughout their undergraduate education. The program also provides academic and personal support through a network of mentors and advisors.

Key Features:

• $20,000 scholarship for up to six years
• Laptop and textbook credits
• Access to mentorship and support

How to Apply:
Visit the Dell Scholars website for more information on how to apply.

Tips for Applying to First-Generation College Student Scholarships

1. Start Early: Many scholarships have early application deadlines, so be sure to begin your search and prepare your application well in advance.
2. Provide Strong References: Request letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or community leaders who can speak to your academic potential and character.
3. Highlight Your Challenges: In your personal statement or essay, emphasize the unique challenges you’ve faced as a first-generation student and how they’ve shaped your desire to pursue higher education.
4. Stay Organized: Keep track of all your scholarship applications, deadlines, and required documents to ensure that you don’t miss any opportunities.

For first-generation college students, pursuing higher education can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. Fortunately, there are many scholarships available in 2025 that can help alleviate the financial burdens associated with college tuition and living expenses. By researching and applying for the scholarships listed in this article, first-generation students can increase their chances of receiving the support they need to succeed in their academic endeavors.