1
First Scholars Program
Belong. Thrive. Graduate.
The First Scholars Program is a four-year experience for first-generation students. Through cohort-based courses, mentorship, community experiences, and academic and career development, First Scholars build the relationships, skills, and confidence they need to succeed at Westminster and after graduation.
“In high school, I often felt like an outsider as the only Hispanic and international student in my classes. I experienced impostor syndrome, feeling like I could not be in high-level classes because I did not share a background with anyone. When I arrived at Westminster, the First Scholars program changed that. For the first time, I met other people who have also gone through the experience of being a minority and first-generation student. First Scholars gave us the chance to face those experiences, to share and learn from them, to recognize how important our origins are.”
—Juanita G.
(Honors '25), First Scholar
Program Benefits
Community Support
First Scholars is, above all, about community. Incoming First Scholars form a small cohort each year. Before classes begin, you’ll get to know your cohort during a week-long Summer Bridge (included in tuition). During your four years at Westminster, you'll take a course with your cohort every fall semester, attend civic and social events together, and explore Utah through Outdoor Program activities. Outside the classroom, you'll build relationships across First Scholars cohorts through community events, service opportunities and other social and professional experiences.
Mentorship
Because Westminster is intentionally small, all students get one-on-one academic help. As a First Scholar, you get even more. From your first day, you have a team of peers, faculty, staff, and professional mentors. Turn to them for advice, encouragement, and connection. As your needs change, your mentorship changes too. Your mentors will help you find your way through college, spot opportunities, build your network, and plan for life after graduation.
Funds for Books
Each semester, you’ll receive up to $500 for books and course materials so you can focus on your work instead of worrying about expenses.
Post-Graduation Guidance
You'll start preparing for life after Westminster well before senior year. Explore careers, complete internships, do research, and work with mentors to build experience and make a plan for your next step. Whether you’re chasing grad school, a fellowship, or a career in your field, your First Scholars community will guide you, even after you graduate.
20%
of first-year students
Are the first in their families to attend college
Fall 2026
30%
of first-year students
Received a Pell Grant
Fall 2026
Student Accomplishments
With the support of Westminster's first-generation program, First Scholars are able to shape and reach their personal and academic goals. Here are some amazing accomplishments of Westminster University First Scholars:
- Publishing articles about research findings
- Presenting research at Harvard University
- Participating in the McNair Scholars Program
- Participating in national academic conferences
- Speaking in front of the UN
- Speaking at the Utah Capitol on Multicultural Day
- Receiving scholarships including Gilman and Truman
- Receiving the NSF Fellowship
- Studying abroad in South Korea
The First Scholars Community
As you figure out who you are and what you want to accomplish, you'll have a network of faculty, staff mentors, and peers to support you. Face challenges and celebrate accomplishments with a community that recognizes the talents, strengths, and story you bring to Westminster.
[First Scholars] made Westminster feel like home.”
[First Scholars] means I will always have a group of people that I can rely on and
who will help me face challenges.”
I didn’t know I could gain 20 BFFs in just one week.”
First Scholars and STEPS
Two ways to join
For incoming first-year students
First Scholars
Progress with your cohort for 4 years
Ease your transition to college, build academic habits, learn self-advocacy, discover campus resources, practice community engagement, and connect with a peer mentor.
- 4-year program
- Take 4 First Scholar courses (FIRST 100, 200, 300, and 400)
- Earn 6 credits toward graduation
- Cohort size: Up to 20 students per year
For transfer students
Strategies for Transfer, Excellence, Preparation, and Success (STEPS)
Prepare for life after graduation
Build your resume and prepare for your career with research, internship, and fellowship opportunities, and connect with a professional mentor.
- 2-year program
- Take 2 First Scholar courses (FIRST 300 and 400)
- Earn 2 credits toward graduation
- Cohort size: Up to 10 students per year
How to Apply
Check if you're eligible
To be eligible to join the First Scholars program, you must:
- Be admitted to Westminster University
- Be a first-generation college student (neither of your parents have a Bachelor's degree from an institution in the United States)
- Identify with one of the following traditionally underrepresented populations:
- Student with a disability
- Student who identifies with a marginalized gender identity, gender expression, or sexuality
- Student who is low-income (household income at or below $100,000/year)
- Be available to attend the First Scholars Summer Bridge program the second week of August
For questions about your admissions status at Westminster, contact Admissions at 801.832.2200.
Key Dates and Deadlines
December 1
Application Opens
April 1
Priority Deadline
June 1
Regular Deadline
Your tuition, fully paid
All students should have the ability to explore their passions. Westminster University is proud to cover the cost of tuition for qualifying students from Utah through the Westminster Commitment.
LEARN ABOUT THE WESTMINSTER COMMITMENT
100%
Tuition Coverage
for 4 Years
Summer Bridge
Before classes begin, you’ll spend a week with fellow incoming First Scholars, as well as faculty mentors, staff mentors, and trip leaders from earlier cohorts. You'll build connections and learn skills to help you take advantage of everything Westminster has to offer. The program runs during the second week of August, and all expenses are covered, including gear and equipment.
Classroom Experience
- Learn how to navigate Westminster
- Take academic workshops
- Connect with faculty
- Build on your strengths
- Discover new ways to learn and think
- Get resources to help you reach your academic goals
Trip to the Uinta Mountains
Experience a multi-day trip where you'll:
- Build relationships with your cohort and staff
- Take part in outdoor activities
- Participate in team-building exercises
