A national program that aims to help first-generation college students stay in school is coming to Kansas State University.

First Scholars is a national program. The university says the Suder Foundation in Plano, Texas, awarded the university $850,000 to pay for student scholarships and start-up costs for the program.

The Suder Foundation created the First Scholars program five years ago. The program will initially help 20 incoming freshmen, with additional freshmen joining each year. Participants will receive support throughout their time at Kansas State.

Data shows program participants outperform the general student body in four- and six-year graduation rates and grade point average.