RESOURCES FOR FIRST GEN STUDENTS
Are you planning to be one of the first generation of your family to obtain a four-year college degree? You may need some help navigating the college admissions process, because it is a new experience for your family. Fortunately, the organizations below offer free assistance that can help you achieve your college dreams.
Palouse Pathways is here to help answer questions about college admissions and financial aid, and we can help you access the resources listed below. All of our services are free. Email us at palousepathways@gmail.com, or text 208 301-5099
These resources are available to all first gen students:
College Greenlight connects first generation and underrepresented students to caring colleges, generous scholarships, and life-changing counselors and mentors.
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 gen students. The JIV site provides a good list.
These resources are available to high achieving low income students through an application process:
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.
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.
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 (1260/27 or more), top grades (top 5-10% of class), and low family income ($65,000 or less). One program, 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. The other program, National College Match, is open to high school SENIORS and allows them to gain admission 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.
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email palousepathways@gmail.com.