First Generation Students

It's for: Future Leathernecks

Western Illinois University is proud of our first-generation students who are paving the way for others. First-generation college students are the first in their family to attend a 4-year college or university and often have unique needs related to navigating the university environment. Your support of WIU's First Generation College Student Scholarship will directly assist WIU students who need it most!

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 30 percent of college students are first-generation students. At Western Illinois University, 34 percent of the student body is classified as first-generation, with more significant numbers seen in our incoming first-year classes!

We're proud to be the institution so many put their trust in for their education. Once a first-generation college student chooses to take that leap and become a Leatherneck, we focus on providing those students with everything they need to complete their degree.

Support for First-Generation College Students helps us attract new friends. It also provides those who might not otherwise be able to attend college without the crucial financial support they need to achieve their dreams.

By giving to our First-Generation College Student fund, you are helping paint the whole world Purple and Gold through students who need it most.