First-Generation Student Success Grant
Forecasted
First-Generation Student Success Grant supports West Virginia public colleges and universities in funding campus services, recruitment, retention, and evaluation to help first-generation students complete college.
Funder: West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Submission deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $25,000 per award; approximately $100,000 total, pending FY 2027 budget approval
Summary: Supports projects that help first-generation students enter, remain in, and complete college in West Virginia.
Key Information: Projects must meaningfully address campus supports, recruitment or retention, and institutional evaluation practices.
Description
The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the West Virginia Council for Community and Technical College Education run this competitive grant to help first-generation students access higher education and complete their postsecondary goals. It funds comprehensive projects at West Virginia public colleges and universities, or their research corporations, focused on recruiting, retaining, and supporting these students.
Projects must combine campus-based initiatives, events, services, or supports that address first-generation students’ needs and resource gaps; activities that support their recruitment or retention on West Virginia campuses; and research, evaluation, assessment, or data-collection practices that improve institutional initiatives or build institutional support. The program emphasizes education, investment, and collaboration in preparing students to live, work, and thrive.
