Think your college degree gives your child a leg up in the admissions process? Not necessarily. At Texas A&M, UT Austin, Texas Tech, and other public universities across the state, your educational background might actually work against your student, especially when it comes to scholarship opportunities.
What Is a “First Gen Student”?
Many schools now offer dedicated scholarships and financial aid for students who are the first in their families to attend college. A “first gen student” typically means neither parent has earned a four-year college degree. That means if you graduated from any college, your child no longer qualifies for those funds. Even if you’re an alum of the university they’re applying to, they may be excluded from significant aid simply because of your degree.
- Examples of dedicated scholarships and financial aid for first gen students include the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s (NMSC) “First Gen” scholarship and the Lumina Foundation’s “Pathways to Higher Education” program.
- These programs recognize the challenges and barriers faced by first gen students and provide targeted support and resources to help them succeed in college.
Why Shreveport Families Should Pay Attention
This matters for families in places like Shreveport, where many students grow up hearing that a high ACT score and a parent who’s an alum will help them earn scholarships. But across the state line in Texas, those assumptions don’t always hold up. Louisiana students applying to Texas schools often find themselves surprised by how little aid is offered.
| Category | Example |
|---|---|
| ACT Scores | A 34 on the ACT may not unlock significant scholarship offers in Texas. |
| Parental Education Level | A parent who graduated from any college may exclude their child from dedicated first gen student scholarships. |
| Out-of-State Status | Even high-achieving out-of-state students may no longer see the big scholarship offers they once did. |
What Parents Should Do
Don’t rely on assumptions or old advice. Ask specific questions during the admissions and financial aid process. Explore private scholarships, departmental awards, and opportunities that aren’t limited by your educational history. The rules have changed, and knowing how they work can make all the difference for your student.
“The rules have changed, and we need to know how they work to help our students succeed.” — Texas Education Agency
Some examples of non-traditional scholarship opportunities include the National Youth Leadership Forum’s (NYLF) $5,000 scholarship for first gen students and the United Negro College Fund’s (UNCF) $2,000 scholarship for minority students.
- Private scholarships can be found through organizations such as the National Scholarship Providers Association and the Scholarship America Foundation.
- Departmental awards can be explored through the university’s admissions office or academic department.
Additional Tips
Don’t assume that your child’s eligibility for scholarships will be affected by your educational background. Research the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for each scholarship.
Example:
Some scholarships have a separate application process, while others may require a separate essay or personal statement.
The key is to be informed and proactive in the admissions and financial aid process.
