First Scholars Program
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
- March 2026: First Scholars application opens
- April 2026: First Scholars application closes
- April-May 2026: Virtual interviews may be 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 2026–2027 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 Arizona in-state tuition.
- Be willing to participate fully in the First Scholars program and activities for four consecutive 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.
First Scholars FAQs
Applying for the First Scholars program?
Please review the facts and frequently asked questions below to improve your understanding of the program and its requirements.
Do I need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and if so, by when? Accordion Closed
- Your FAFSA should be completed and submitted by November 15 (NAU’s priority deadline) to ensure you receive the most funding possible.
- To qualify for First Scholars, you must have a complete FAFSA file by April 1.
When do I pay the $250 enrollment deposit? Accordion Closed
- To qualify for First Scholars, you must also pay your enrollment deposit by April 1. Visit NAU’s accept my offer page to make your payment.
- The enrollment deposit is non-refundable after May 1.
How does the First Scholars office communicate with students? Accordion Closed
- Our primary method of communication is through email directed to the student’s NAU email address. (NAU student emails are assigned during the admission process and are usually two or three initials followed by a series of numbers (example: abc1234@nau.edu).
- You can reach our offices by phone at 928-523-6980.
What is expected of me as a First Scholar? Accordion Closed
- The First Scholars program is the premier first-generation program at NAU. With this in mind, students take on a greater responsibility and are much more visible than most students. They are expected to be involved in campus activities, successful in the classroom, and leaders at NAU.
- There are multiple events and activities that students must attend:
- new student orientation and semester retreats
- social events each semester
- optional academic success workshops
- meetings with professional staff and peer mentors
- service and learning events each year
- This is a very student-involved program. We ask all students to prioritize First Scholars over other commitments.
What is the purpose or mission of First Scholars? Accordion Closed
- First Scholars aims to support first-gen students in their mission to succeed at NAU, graduate, and continue to excel in their life and pursuits.