First-Generation Students

Comprehensive Summary of the Financial Aid Guide for First-Generation Students

Purpose

The guide offers a roadmap for first-generation, low-income high school students to explore financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, grants, and loans, to reduce the financial burden of college. It emphasizes planning, organization, and early action to secure funding for higher education.

Key Sections and Highlights

1. Starting Your Scholarship Search

• When to Start:

  • Begin searching for scholarships in junior year and continue throughout senior year.

• Helpful Platforms and Tools:

  • QuestBridge: Full scholarships through partnerships with top U.S. colleges.

  • Scholly: App to find scholarships tailored to student profiles.

  • Scholarships.com, Fastweb, and College Board: Comprehensive databases for scholarship opportunities.

• Counselor Support: Work with high school counsellors to identify local and state-funded programs.

2. Types of Scholarships

• National Scholarships:

  • QuestBridge College Match: Full tuition, housing, and food scholarships for top-performing students.

  • Hagan Scholarship: $7,500 per semester for up to 8 semesters for students attending non-profit colleges.

  • Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 per year, does not need repayment, available for undergraduates with financial need.

• Ethnicity and Minority-Based Scholarships:

  • Hispanic Scholarship Fund: Up to $5,000 with mentorship and career guidance.

  • UNCF (United Negro College Fund): Supports African American students through grants and scholarships.

  • Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship: Up to $35,000 over 4 years with leadership development.

• Specialized Scholarships Matching Student Passions:

  • Generation Google Scholarship: $10,000 for computer science students promoting diversity and inclusion.

  • Gates Millennium Scholars Program: Full tuition for low-income students, renewable for graduate studies in select fields.

  • STEM Scholarships: Grants and scholarships for students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

3. Preparing for Scholarship Essays

• Structure: Use a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.

• Tips for Strong Essays:

  • Be authentic—write about meaningful experiences.

  • Research the scholarship provider and align your essay with their mission.

  • Use specific examples to highlight personal achievements.

• Common Essay Prompts:

  • “Tell us more about yourself.”

  • “Describe a time you overcame a challenge.”

  • “What are your academic and career goals?”

4. Understanding FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

• Why FAFSA Matters: Determines eligibility for federal financial aid, including loans, grants, and work-study programs.

• How to Apply:

  • Gather documents (tax returns, Social Security numbers, income statements).

  • Create FSA IDs for both the student and parent to submit the form online.

  • Submit the FAFSA as early as possible; applications open October 1 each year.

• Important Notes:

  • FAFSA must be completed every year of college attendance.

  • Students may adjust financial aid if family income changes unexpectedly.

5. Scholarship Application Timeline

• Junior Year:

  • Take SAT/ACT exams and build extracurricular activities.

  • Begin researching scholarships and make a list of deadlines.

• Summer Before Senior Year:

  • Start writing scholarship essays and gather recommendation letters.

• Senior Year:

  • Submit applications early and follow up with colleges on the status of scholarships and FAFSA submissions.

6. Tips for Success

• Stay Organized: Use spreadsheets or calendars to track scholarship deadlines.

• Ask for Help: Seek guidance from counsellors and mentors throughout the process.

• Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Increase chances of winning by applying to multiple programs.