The First-Generation Scholarship is awarded to undergraduate students who are the first-generation in their family to earn a bachelor’s degree. This need-based state/institutional scholarship helps bring a university education within reach for qualified students attending Florida public state universities, including FIU. Funding is made possible through the generosity of donors and matching dollars from the State of Florida.
Recipients must be Florida residents, demonstrate financial need, and meet all eligibility and application requirements.
Eligibility
- First-Generation in family to attain a college bachelor’s degree. This means neither parent or legal guardian has earned a bachelor’s degree or higher. Students whose siblings have attained or are pursuing a degree are eligible.
- FAFSA must indicate that neither parent’s education level is above high school.
- Qualify as a Florida resident for tuition purposes.
- Be enrolled in or accepted for admission to FIU as a degree-seeking undergraduate student.
- Enroll in a minimum of 6 credit hours per term. Some First Generation Scholarships may require full-time enrollment.
- Demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as the FAFSA, and be eligible for a Pell Grant.
- Maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA. Some First-Generation Awards may require a higher GPA.
- Must not have previously earned a bachelor’s degree.
Scholarship Application Process
Students interested in being considered for a First-Generation Scholarship should complete the FAFSA each academic year and ensure FIU has received their financial aid information.
In early Fall, applications will open for specific First-Generation Scholarships. Applications may open through the Fall and Spring semester, with awards being posted from October to April as funds become available. First-Generation scholarships are not available for summer terms.
Students are encouraged to monitor their FIU e-mail and scholarship website to stay up to date on available opportunities. Awards are based on eligibility, donor criteria, and available funding. Funding is not guaranteed.
Empowerment Through Education
To date, FIU has awarded more than 14,400 scholarships for critical financial support to FIU students. Leveraged by state matching funds, gifts to the First-Generation Scholarship program enhance FIU’s reputation as a beacon of hope, providing an exceptional opportunity for donors to maximize the impact of their gifts. But we must do more.
My family came to this country with only $200 and a dream to provide me an opportunity that they themselves were not able to achieve. The First Generation Scholarship has helped me realize our 'American Dream.'Jessica Marin, First-Generation Scholarship Recipient
Make an Impact
Florida International University's First-Generation Scholarship is supported by an innovative matching grant program. Established in 2006 by Florida Legislature, the program provides financial support to qualified undergraduate FIU students who are the first generation in their family to pursue a college degree.
Starting in 2018-19, every $1 donated to the First Generation Scholarship Program has been matched by the State of Florida with $2. Previously, these donations were matched with an equal contribution by the state. This is another exciting step in the expanding educational opportunities for deserving first-generation students.
The program is the only of its kind in the state of Florida to match private donations for first generation scholarships, providing financial assistance for students to attend a state university or college. At the heart of this innovative scholarship program are the dreams of first generation students who aspire to reap the benefits of an FIU degree.
See your legacy: Support our First-Gen students.