Application Process
Please view First Scholars Eligibility before commencing the steps below:
Step 1: Apply to and be admitted to the University of Memphis.
Step 2: Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). All students, parents are required to use a Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID) to electronically access and sign FAFSA documents. Learn more about FSA IDs.
Step 3: Complete the First Scholars® application by March 13, 2026. (You MUST be admitted to the University of Memphis before applying to the First Scholars® Program)
NOTE: Scholars will be selected based on eligibility criteria and results of the SSI
assessment. If you’re selected, First Scholars® will work with you to create, and
help you follow, your First Scholars® individualized strategic plan to maximize your
success in college.
“What if I (or my parents) haven’t completed taxes yet or don’t have our last year's tax returns?”
If you or your parents have not completed your taxes yet, you can estimate your income and other tax return information, and then correct your application after you have filed your taxes.
When estimating your tax return information, you should indicate that you will file your taxes. For example, if your current income is similar to your pat year's income, use your current tax return to provide estimates for questions about your income. If your income is not similar, use the FAFSA Income Estimator for assistance estimating your adjusted gross income, and answer the remaining questions about your income to the best of your ability.
You should return to update the estimates you provided with your latest tax return information once you file. To update your estimates, click Make FAFSA Corrections after logging in to FAFSA on the Web. Navigate to the “Finances” section and indicate that you have already completed your taxes. If your tax return information is available and if you are eligible to do so, you should use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to transfer your tax return information into your application.