Nursing Scholarships for First-Generation College Students

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.
By
Updated on September 12, 2025
Edited by
First-generation college students face many financial barriers. These nursing scholarships can help cover the cost of your undergraduate or graduate nursing degree.

Key Takeaways

  • First-generation nursing students have access to scholarships that help ease financial burdens.
  • Eligibility varies by program, with some targeting specific groups or those with financial need.
  • Awards range from $1,000 to full tuition; some require service commitments or GPA minimums.

Paying for nursing school can be hard, especially for first-generation college students. Fortunately, nursing financial aid through scholarships and grants can make your degree more affordable. Even better, you’ll qualify for various nursing scholarships if you’re the first in your family to earn a degree.

This guide introduces undergraduate and graduate scholarship opportunities for first-generation nursing students.

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Undergraduate First-Generation Nursing Scholarships

Many organizations offer scholarships for first-generation college students. While some of these scholarships are open to all majors, nursing students can still apply.

Graduate First-Generation Nursing Scholarships

A graduate degree in nursing can mean a higher earning potential and greater clinical responsibilities. While graduate scholarships typically do not list first-generation learners among their criteria, many focus on serving underrepresented communities and applicants with financial need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most first-generation scholarships require neither of your parents to hold a bachelor’s degree. That means you’re eligible even if your parents attended some college or hold an associate degree. Make sure to check how scholarship programs define “first generation” when applying.