First Things First Scholarship

The First Things First's College Scholarship program provides the early childhood workforce access to education and training to achieve degrees, credentials and specialized skills to promote children’s development. Eligible applicants may take up to 24 college credits per year (including general studies coursework) toward completing a credential, associate’s degree, or bachelor’s degree in fields determined by FTF to be related to the early childhood education field. The scholarship covers tuition, fees, course materials, and exam fees.

Scholarship Info Video

Step 1: Review Scholarship Details

Scholarship Criteria:

  • Enrolled into MCC's Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education OR Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education - Dual Language degree program.
  • Working in Arizona with or on behalf of children birth through five (priority enrollment for those who work directly with young children who do not already have a degree) or volunteering 15 hours per month in an approved birth-age 5 setting.

Step 2: Early Childhood Advisement

Set up an appointment with a program advisor or representative to develop your education plan: [email protected]

If you have prior college credit from a non-Maricopa County Community College, please bring an unofficial copy of your transcripts with you.

Step 3: FAFSA Application

The FAFSA is required for students to be eligible for financial aid in the form of grants, education loans, work-study, and scholarships.

FAFSA Application

Step 4: AZ Early Childhood Workforce Registry

Gather the information that you will need to complete the registry process:

  • Education Plan from the advisement session (Step 2)
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Proof of FAFSA application

AZ Registry Sign Up

  1. Upload required documentation: On your toolbar under My Tools & Settings, select My Profile and at the bottom select Upload New File
  2. Apply for the scholarship.

Additional information is available on the FTF Scholarship Process webpage. Need help? 1-855-818-6613 or [email protected]

The scholarship application process can take up to two weeks once all documentation is submitted by the scholar: MCC's Tuition Rates and Due Dates