RESOURCES FOR FIRST-GENeration STUDENTS

Will you be the first person in your family to obtain a four-year college degree?

These resources are available to all first-generation students:

  • I’m First is an online community celebrating first generation college students and supporting those who would be. They offer inspiring stories, answers to college questions, and access to colleges that want to help you succeed.

  • There are many scholarships intended for first-generation students. The JLV College Counseling site provides a good list.

These resources are available to high-achieving, low-income students through an application process:

  • LEDA Scholars Program is for high achieving juniors from low income families who demonstrate leadership. Special consideration is given to first gen students. LEDA Scholars receive training, writing instruction, standardized test prep and personal guidance through the admissions process at the most competitive colleges.

  • Jack Kent Cooke Foundation offers a scholarship program for low income high school seniors with strong SAT or ACT scores (1200/26 or more) and high GPAs (3.5 or more). Winners receive up to $40,000 per year in scholarships, and personal advising to get you to and through college.

  • QuestBridge offers two programs for high achieving first generation and/or low income students. In order to qualify, students need high PSAT/SAT or ACT scores, top grades (top 5-10% of class), and a low family income ($65,000 or less). 

    • College Prep Scholars is open to high school juniors and helps them prepare for college admissions and visit colleges. The Deadline to apply is in March.

    • National College Match is open to high school seniors and allows them to gain admission and full-ride scholarships to top colleges and universities.

  • Collegepoint offers free mentoring and advising through the college process, from selecting schools to apply to choosing which school to attend. Open to seniors with good grades and test scores and family income of less than $80,000.

  • Matriculate offers free mentoring and advising provided by students from low income backgrounds now attending top colleges. The program is open to high school juniors with good grades and test scores and family income of less than $80,000.