Top Scholarships for First-Generation College Students

You’re the First — But You’re Not Alone

Being the first in your family to attend university is a big deal — and an even bigger challenge. You’re stepping into a world of application forms, financial jargon, and academic expectations with no family blueprint to follow. It’s courageous, it’s transformative — and it’s often overwhelming.

The good news? There’s help out there created just for you. First-generation scholarships are designed to celebrate and support students like you — educational pioneers paving a new path not just for yourselves, but for future generations in your family. These scholarships aren’t just about money. They’re about recognising your potential, acknowledging your journey, and ensuring you don’t have to do it all on your own.

In this post, we’ll break down what it means to be a first-generation college student, where to find scholarships for pioneers, and which opportunities offer the most support — financially and personally. You’ll also find practical application tips and inspiring real-life examples.

Let’s make your first step into higher education a confident one.

Who Counts as a First-Generation College Student?

There’s no single definition, but in most cases, you’re considered first-generation if:

• Neither of your parents earned a university degree
• You are the first in your immediate family to attend a higher education institution
• Your parents may have some post-secondary education, but didn’t complete a degree

Some scholarships may also consider you first-gen if:

• You’ve been in care or a foster system
• You come from a low-income or underrepresented background
• You’ve had little to no family experience with higher education systems

Always read the fine print on eligibility criteria, and don’t hesitate to contact the scholarship provider if you’re unsure.

Why First-Gen Scholarships Exist — and Why They Matter

1. Bridging the Equity Gap

First-generation students often face barriers others don’t — lack of guidance, financial strain, and cultural disconnects. Scholarships help level the playing field.

2. Recognising Resilience

Getting to university without academic role models at home takes grit. Scholarships acknowledge this unique form of leadership and perseverance.

3. Promoting Diverse Voices

Education benefits from diversity. First-gen students bring new perspectives, stories, and problem-solving approaches to the classroom and beyond.

Top First-Generation Scholarships You Should Know

Let’s explore some of the most respected and impactful college aid for first-gen students in the UK and globally.

UK-Based Scholarships

1. The Sutton Trust Pathways Programmes

Aimed at high-achieving students from low-income and first-generation backgrounds.

• Includes: Mentoring, university trips, and access to degree-specific funding
• Subjects: Law, medicine, finance, STEM, and more
• Eligibility: State school students in Year 12 or equivalent

2. The Unite Foundation Scholarship

Supports care leavers and estranged students, many of whom are first-gen.

• Includes: Free university accommodation for up to 3 years
• Partner Universities: Over 30 UK institutions
• Focus: Stable living for students with challenging backgrounds

3. The Brightside Trust Mentoring and Bursaries

Offers mentorship and funding for students from underrepresented backgrounds.

• Includes: Career guidance and scholarship opportunities
• Ideal for: First-gen students without family support in education

International Scholarships for First-Gen Students

4. The Gates Scholarship (US-based but globally known)

For high-potential minority students in the US, many are first-generation.

• Award: Full cost of attendance (tuition, fees, room, board)
• Eligibility: US citizens, Pell Grant eligible, exceptional academic record

5. First Generation Civil Rights Fellowship (USA)

Designed for law students who are the first in their families to attend university.

• Includes: Summer placements in civil rights organisations
• Focus: Social justice, leadership, and mentorship

6. Generation Google Scholarship (EMEA)

Supports first-gen and underrepresented students pursuing tech degrees.

• Award: €7,000 for one academic year
• Eligibility: Students in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa

7. Fulbright First Generation Scholarships (Global)

While not exclusive to first-gen students, Fulbright programmes often include special awards for pioneers and underserved populations.

• Award: Varies (covers tuition, travel, and stipend)
• Note: Different programmes across countries — check your local Fulbright commission

Where Else to Find First-Gen Scholarship Opportunities

1. University Access Schemes

Most universities offer scholarships or bursaries specifically for first-generation or widening participation students.

Look for terms like:

• Widening Access Bursary
• First-in-Family Award
• Access to Learning Fund

Check university financial aid or student services web pages for tailored support.

2. Local Charities and Councils

Many community foundations and councils offer smaller, targeted awards.

Example Sources:

• Local education authorities
• Rotary clubs or alumni foundations
• Community development trusts

These may be less competitive and more personal.

3. Cultural or Identity-Based Programmes

If you’re a first-gen student and part of a minority group (e.g. BAME, LGBTQ+, disabled), you may qualify for targeted intersectional support.

• Black Heart Foundation
• Disability Rights UK grants
• Refugee Education UK

How to Apply for First-Gen Scholarships Successfully

1. Own Your Story

Don’t downplay your background — your first-gen identity is your strength. Highlight how you’ve navigated challenges without a family roadmap.

Share what education means to you personally, not just in theory, but in practice.

2. Focus on Resilience, Not Just Academics

Selection committees know your context may differ from others. Use your application to explain:

• Barriers you’ve overcome
• Times you’ve taken initiative
• Support you’ve given to others (e.g. helping siblings with homework, working part-time)

3. Get Recommendations That Speak to Your Journey

Choose referees who can explain your growth, leadership, and motivation. Provide them with context about the scholarship and your goals.

Teachers, mentors, or community leaders are ideal.

4. Keep Documents Ready

Common requirements include:

• Personal statement or essay
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of income or background (e.g. UCAS application context flag)
• CV or résumé

Organise these in a dedicated “Scholarships” folder.

Real-Life Stories: From First to Fearless

Sarah, Law Student, London

Sarah’s parents left school at 14. When she got into a Russell Group university, she felt imposter syndrome creeping in. But through the Bright Network’s first-gen mentorship programme, she found guidance, and later received the Pathways to Law bursary.

“I realised I wasn’t alone — I was leading a new legacy.”

Leon, Engineering Graduate, Birmingham

Leon worked weekends in a warehouse to help support his family. He used part of his Gates Scholarship essay to explain the value of balance between duty and dreams.

“Being first-gen doesn’t mean you have to choose between helping others and helping yourself. You can do both — and scholarships help you prove it.”

Final Checklist: Applying for First-Gen Scholarships

• Know your eligibility
• Organise key documents
• Craft a compelling personal story
• Apply early and track deadlines
• Celebrate each step — even rejections are progress

Conclusion: You’re Not Just First — You’re a Force

Being a first-generation college student is more than a label. It’s a sign of strength, vision, and perseverance. Every form you fill out, every essay you write, and every deadline you meet is a step toward rewriting your family’s future.

There are scholarships out there waiting for students just like you. All you need is a plan, a story, and the belief that you belong.

Because you do.

Want a downloadable list of first-gen scholarships in the UK and globally? Subscribe below and get our curated scholarship directory sent straight to your inbox.

Are you a first-gen student who’s applied for or won a scholarship? Share your story in the comments. You could inspire someone to take their very first step.

Action step: Choose one scholarship from this list, add the deadline to your calendar, and start your application plan today. Because you’re not just the first—you’re the start of something bigger.