First Scholars Eligibility & Application

If you’re a first generation college student and wish to apply to the First Scholars program at Northern Arizona University, please review the criteria information for a better understanding of the criteria and process.

Students who apply to the First Scholars program must:

• Be a first-generation student, meaning neither parent(s) or guardian(s) do not have a bachelor’s degree.
• Be a first-time freshman who has been admitted to NAU for the 2023-2024 year. This includes submitting appropriate application and enrollment fees, and high school transcripts.
• Demonstrate financial need and complete the FAFSA/Free Application for Federal Student Aid onlineas soon as possible. You must have a complete FAFSA file at NAU by April 1.
• Be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen as defined by federal law.
• Be eligible for in-state tuition.
• Be willing to fully participate in First Scholars program and activities for four-years.

Please note: First Scholars will consider other components of the application such as quality of writing, academic performance, contribution to the community, and community college courses taken, if applicable. Please fully complete all parts of the application to be fully considered for the First Scholars Program.

Students selected to be a First Scholar must:

• Attend an NAU new student orientation, and the First Scholars Orientation, date to be determined.
• Participate in designated retreats, activities, workshops and service projects for four years.
• Meet with a peer mentor their first year
• Maintain a 2.0 GPA, semester and cumulative
• Commit to this four-year program that helps students achieve success.

Selection process and dates:

• January 2023: First Scholars application opens
• April 2023: First Scholars application closes
• April-May 2023: Virtual interviews are conducted & program offers are sent out