First Scholars eligibility and application

Interested in applying for NAU’s First Scholars program? View all requirements and eligibility criteria below!

Selection process and dates

• April 2025: First Scholars application opens
• June 2025: First Scholars application closes
• June–July 2025: Virtual interviews are conducted, and program offers are sent.

Eligibility requirements

Students who apply to the First Scholars program must:

• Be a first-generation student, meaning neither parent(s) or guardian(s) have earned a bachelor’s degree.
• Be a first-time student who has been admitted to NAU for the 2025–2026 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). (Due to changes concerning the FAFSA, we recommend that you complete the application as soon as possible.)
• Be a US citizen or qualified non-citizen as defined by federal law.
• Be eligible for in-state tuition.
• Be willing to participate fully in the First Scholars program and activities for four years.

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 complete all parts of the application to be fully considered for the First Scholars program.

Program requirements

Students selected to be a First Scholar must:

• Commit to four years of support and guidance from the First Scholars Program
• Attend an NAU new student orientation
• Attend the First Scholars orientation (date to be determined for Fall 2025)
• Participate in designated socials, events, workshops, and service projects for four years
• Meet with a peer mentor their first year
• Meet with a professional staff mentor for four years
• Maintain a 2.0 GPA, semester and cumulative.