FIU’s First Generation Scholarship Program brings the American Dream within reach of our first generation students, those who are first in their families to pursue a college degree. Donations to the scholarship are matched 100% by the state of Florida, providing donors an opportunity to help facilitate access to higher education and make a lasting difference in the lives of first generation FIU students and to the generations that follow. Since the program’s inception in 2006, nearly 10,000 First Generation Scholarships were allocated to FIU students, totaling more than $7.9 million.
Approximately 84% of FIU undergraduate students are minorities and more than 53% are first generation college students. In addition to its diverse ethnic groups, FIU serves a large percentage of economically disadvantaged students. Ninety-one percent of First-Time-in-College students depend on financial aid and nearly 56% of all FIU’s financial aid recipients come from families with annual household incomes less than $30,000.
Despite significant need, a high percentage of FIU students receive only partial financial aid. As a result, many talented and highly motivated students with limited resources are forced to attend only part-time or postpone their education altogether. The First Generation Scholarship Program is, therefore, a vital source of financial support for many of FIU’s underserved students. Increased scholarship and program financial aid is critical to ensure that all deserving students receive the assistance needed to enroll, succeed and graduate. Investments in FIU and our students are more than just scholarships – they are investments in the greater community of Miami.
How to Give
- Recurring Biweekly Payroll Deductions – Your Gift Amount will be deducted continuously. (i.e., $1.92 = $1.92 per pay period until you request a change)
- One Payment Payroll Deduction – Your Gift Amount will be deducted from one pay check only. (i.e., $100 = $ 100 from one pay period)
- Pay Directly with Credit Card
- Download Pledge Form