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What are some of the best scholarship opportunities for first-generation college students. ?
I am a senior in high school in the state of Arkansas. I plan on pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering alongside a pre-law track. I will be attending the University of Arkansas Honors College.
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3 answers

Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
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Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I would check to see if the college or university has a TRIO Student Support Services program.
TRIO programs are specifically designed to assist students who are first generation students complete college.
Many of them have extra financial assistance and scholarship applications for students who are enrolled in their program.
So, see if they have a TRIO program on campus.
TRIO programs are specifically designed to assist students who are first generation students complete college.
Many of them have extra financial assistance and scholarship applications for students who are enrolled in their program.
So, see if they have a TRIO program on campus.
Updated
Mark’s Answer
You're taking on a challenging and varied study path, so get ready for long hours.
1. Fill Out the FAFSA: Complete the FAFSA form as soon as possible. Many miss out on financial aid simply because they skip this step.
2. Research Colleges: Visit the websites of any colleges you're interested in. Scholarships might not be advertised, but they're often listed online.
3. Explore Local Opportunities: Apply for local scholarships. Companies like Target and Starbucks offer them.
4. Check School Resources: Visit your school's guidance office and check the scholarship wall for opportunities.
5. Use Online Resources: Websites like Fastweb and even your local bookstore have lists of hundreds of scholarships.
6. Apply Widely: Many people miss out because they don't apply, thinking they won't qualify. Apply for as many as you can.
1. Fill Out the FAFSA: Complete the FAFSA form as soon as possible. Many miss out on financial aid simply because they skip this step.
2. Research Colleges: Visit the websites of any colleges you're interested in. Scholarships might not be advertised, but they're often listed online.
3. Explore Local Opportunities: Apply for local scholarships. Companies like Target and Starbucks offer them.
4. Check School Resources: Visit your school's guidance office and check the scholarship wall for opportunities.
5. Use Online Resources: Websites like Fastweb and even your local bookstore have lists of hundreds of scholarships.
6. Apply Widely: Many people miss out because they don't apply, thinking they won't qualify. Apply for as many as you can.
Updated
Catherine’s Answer
That's fantastic! As a first-generation college student aiming for a dual track in mechanical engineering and pre-law at the University of Arkansas Honors College, you're already on a strong path. Here are some scholarship opportunities and resources tailored to your goals:
🎓University of Arkansas Scholarships
Advance Arkansas Scholarship: Provides up to $4,000 per year for students demonstrating financial need and academic success. Preference is given to first-generation college students.
Silas Hunt Scholarship: Offers up to $8,000 per year for students from underrepresented backgrounds, including first-generation students.
Honors College Fellowships: Competitive fellowships available to Honors College students, which may include financial support and other benefits.
Razorback Bridge Scholars Program: Provides mentoring and leadership development opportunities for first-generation students.
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Arkansas Statewide Scholarships
Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship: Funded by the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, this scholarship supports Arkansas residents pursuing higher education.
Arkansas Association of Career and Technical Education Administrators (AACTEA) Scholarship: Offers $500 to high school seniors planning to attend an Arkansas college or university.
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Additional Resources
Scholarships360: Provides a list of scholarships specifically for first-generation college students, which may include opportunities relevant to your fields of interest.
Rise First Resource Directory: Offers a comprehensive directory of scholarships and programs for first-generation, low-income students.
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Application Tips
Apply Early: Many scholarships have early deadlines. For instance, the University of Arkansas Honors College recommends submitting applications by November 15.
Highlight Your First-Generation Status: Clearly indicate your first-generation college student status in your applications to qualify for relevant scholarships.
Seek Guidance: Consult with your high school counselor and the University of Arkansas Academic Scholarship Office for personalized advice and assistance.
🎓University of Arkansas Scholarships
Advance Arkansas Scholarship: Provides up to $4,000 per year for students demonstrating financial need and academic success. Preference is given to first-generation college students.
Silas Hunt Scholarship: Offers up to $8,000 per year for students from underrepresented backgrounds, including first-generation students.
Honors College Fellowships: Competitive fellowships available to Honors College students, which may include financial support and other benefits.
Razorback Bridge Scholars Program: Provides mentoring and leadership development opportunities for first-generation students.
---
Arkansas Statewide Scholarships
Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship: Funded by the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, this scholarship supports Arkansas residents pursuing higher education.
Arkansas Association of Career and Technical Education Administrators (AACTEA) Scholarship: Offers $500 to high school seniors planning to attend an Arkansas college or university.
---
Additional Resources
Scholarships360: Provides a list of scholarships specifically for first-generation college students, which may include opportunities relevant to your fields of interest.
Rise First Resource Directory: Offers a comprehensive directory of scholarships and programs for first-generation, low-income students.
---
Application Tips
Apply Early: Many scholarships have early deadlines. For instance, the University of Arkansas Honors College recommends submitting applications by November 15.
Highlight Your First-Generation Status: Clearly indicate your first-generation college student status in your applications to qualify for relevant scholarships.
Seek Guidance: Consult with your high school counselor and the University of Arkansas Academic Scholarship Office for personalized advice and assistance.