Eligibility

The First Scholars® Application will open on November 19, 2025 in Tiger Scholarship Manager and will close on March 13, 2026.  Below are the eligibility requirements.  Please feel free to contact us with any questions.

• Must be a first generation college student (neither parent earned more than two years of education beyond high school and no post-secondary degree).
• Be an incoming first-time, full-time freshman.
• Apply and be admitted to the University of Memphis.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Perform in the mid-range of the university's admission standards.
• Be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen and be eligible for in-state student tuition.
• Apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1, 2025.
• Be willing to fully participate in annual program activities.
• Attend New Student Orientation during the summer prior to your freshmen year.
  
  

First Scholars® will be selected based on our eligibility criteria and the results of the SSI. If you're selected, First Scholars® will provide you with opportunities to maximize your success in college and help you create an individualized plan to guide you.