Scholarships for Being First in Family to Attend College?

I'm the first in my family to go to college, and I'm hunting for scholarships that might support this. Are there specific programs or awards for students in my position? How competitive are these scholarships usually?

There are indeed scholarships available specifically for first-generation college students. These scholarships aim to assist students who are the first in their families to embark on a college education, and they typically support both domestic and international studies.

One example is the Benjamin and Patricia Allen Scholarship, which is for first-generation college students looking to study in any field. The Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship is another that is specific to first-generation students. These scholarships are awarded to students attending participating institutions.

As far as competitiveness goes, it can vary. Some scholarships receive hundreds or thousands of applications. Others may receive fewer due to specific eligibility criteria or less awareness about them. The key is to apply to as any relevant scholarships as you can and make sure your applications are well-prepared and complete.

Don't forget about scholarships available at specific universities, which often include first-generation scholarships. For example, the University of Colorado Boulder has the First Generation Grant specifically for in-state students whose parents don't have any education or technical training beyond high school.

Being a first-gen student is definitely a unique experience that comes with its own set of challenges, but know that there are resources such as scholarships available to help you strive for your academic goals. It takes effort to find these scholarships and complete their application processes, but the potential financial assistance is worth it. Good luck with your college journey!