First Generation Scholarship

1About this scholarship

The First Generation Award was established by NSHSS to recognize and honor first-generation college students for their academic and leadership initiatives. It is open to NSHSS members who are first generation high school seniors, college freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. Applicants submit an essay, headshot, resume, transcript, and educator recommendation. Applications open November 26, 2026.

2Eligibility requirements

• Applicant must be a first-generation student
• Applicant must be a member of NSHSS (National Society of High School Scholars)

Education level: High school senior, Undergraduate

3Academic requirements

• Applicant must be a high school senior, college freshman, sophomore, or junior

4Application requirements

• Prompt response of 500-800 words
• Pictures/videos/media showing your leadership in action (optional)
• Color headshot suitable for website posting
• Academic resume
• Current Transcript (can be official or unofficial)
• Educator recommendation letter

5Essays and recommendations

Essay: required — 500-800 word response: As a first-generation college student, what challenges have you faced and how did you overcome it?

Recommendations: required — Educator recommendation letter

6Award amount and payment

Not published by the sponsor

7Application deadline

Deadline

Not published by the sponsor

Applications open

November 26, 2026

8How to apply

Not published by the sponsor

9Official application link

https://www.nshss.org/scholarships/s/first-generation-scholarship/ (opens in a new tab)

10Sponsor

National Society of High School Scholars

11Source of this information

Official source: https://www.nshss.org/scholarships/s/first-generation-scholarship/ (opens in a new tab)

Always confirm details with the sponsor before applying. The Giboney Foundation does not administer this scholarship.

12Last verification

Last verified November 11, 2026