College scholarships and coaching for first-generation students
Explore the possibilities of your future with college scholarships and coaching
At Making Waves Education Foundation, we partner with students from low-income backgrounds, first-generation college students, and people of color so college is affordable and graduation is attainable. We are supporting San Francisco Bay Area first-generation college students from low-income backgrounds through a new need-based scholarship opportunity!
What is a first-generation college student?
Being a first-generation college student, often known as first-gen, means your parent/s did not earn a college or university degree. During the 2022-23 academic year, Making Waves Education Foundation supported 515 Wave-Makers across 75 colleges and universities, 87% of whom are first-gen college students. The majority of our program alumni are first-gen college graduates.
What other benefits come with the scholarship?
Twenty eligible students will receive up to $20,000 each in scholarship funding for up to five years – and will be enrolled in Making Waves Education Foundation’s college and career success program, which pairs students with college coaches, financial coordinators, and career specialists to help them navigate their college and career journeys.
What is the scholarship eligibility and deadline?
SCHOLARSHIP ELIGIBILITY
- Currently a high school senior
- Attends high school within the nine San Francisco Bay Area counties (Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma)
- Plans to attend a not-for-profit four-year college or university within the United States
- Has a maximum Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) of $7,500 as indicated by the FAFSA, California Dream Act application, or equivalent
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION DEADLINE
- There is a multi-step application process and all materials must be submitted by February 26, 2024.
Learn more!
Are you a future first-generation college graduate? Are you looking for a scholarship AND a support system to help you navigate higher education? Take the next step!