Defining a First-Generation College Student: Requirements and Support

Determining who qualifies as a first-generation college student involves understanding the criteria used by educational institutions and support organizations. This article explores the common definitions, challenges, and resources available to these students, drawing upon insights from various sources, including the Center for First-Generation Student Success and Collegewise.

Who is a First-Generation College Student?

The most widely accepted definition of a first-generation college student, as outlined in the federal Higher Education Act, is a student whose parents (or parent, in the case of single-parent households) did not complete a bachelor’s degree. According to the Center for First-Generation Student Success, 54% of undergraduate students in 2020 met this criterion. This designation typically remains even if parents completed some college or earned an associate degree, or if siblings, aunts, uncles, or grandparents earned a degree.

Nuances in Definition

While the core definition focuses on parents' attainment of a bachelor's degree, some institutions may apply caveats for students with less traditional family backgrounds, such as those who were adopted or lost a degree-holding parent during adolescence. It's important to check with the school’s admissions office to clarify their specific criteria, especially when applying for financial aid or assistance programs.

Proving First-Generation Status

Students can typically indicate their first-generation status on the Common Application by completing the parent education section. If the parents do not hold a bachelor’s degree, the application will designate the student as first-generation. Colleges and universities generally adhere to the standard that if neither parent graduated from a four-year program, the student is considered first-generation.

Challenges Faced by First-Generation College Students

While academically prepared, first-generation students often face unique challenges. These can range from navigating unfamiliar college systems and lacking college-related guidance at home to financial concerns and feelings of isolation. Graduation rates for first-generation students tend to be lower compared to their continuing-generation peers.

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Lack of Familiarity with College Systems

One of the primary challenges is the lack of household exposure to adults who have graduated from college. This can lead to a lack of immediate support in preparing for and attending college. First-generation students may need to be proactive in seeking external support systems to address their college-specific needs.

Financial Concerns

Financial support is a significant concern for many first-generation college students. They often wonder how they will fund their education. Fortunately, all institutions have financial aid offices that offer options such as Cal Grants, Pell Grants, loans, and outside scholarships.

Financial Aid Options

Cal Grant: A California state-offered financial aid program for students attending University of California, California State University, or California Community College. It has three types: A, B, and C, each with different eligibility criteria and award amounts.
Pell Grant: A federal government award for undergraduate students with exceptional financial need who have not earned a bachelor's, graduate, or professional degree.
Student Loans: Subsidized loans (for undergraduates with financial need, where the government pays the interest during certain periods) and unsubsidized loans (available to undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, but interest accrues immediately).
Outside Scholarships: Various scholarships that can help with books, basic needs, tuition, or housing expenses.

Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt

Many first-generation students experience self-doubt as they transition into college, leading to feelings of isolation. This can be attributed to imposter syndrome, which affects a significant percentage of people during transitions. It's important to remember that admission to college indicates belonging and capability.

Success Tips for First-Generation College Students

To navigate these challenges and thrive in college, first-generation students can adopt several strategies:

Seek Support

Proactively seek support from school counselors, teachers, professors, friends' parents, and other people who have attended college. Online resources and support groups dedicated to first-generation college students can also be valuable.

Utilize School Resources

Take advantage of programs and resources designed to help first-generation students, such as hidden curriculum courses, Educational Opportunity Programs (EOPs), student resource centers, and student groups.

Community-Based Programs

Hidden Curriculum Courses: Courses that explain the unwritten social norms and academic processes of college.
Educational Opportunity Programs (EOPs): Programs that prepare incoming students for rigorous academic schedules and offer supportive structures.
Student Success Centers: Offices providing support for administrative and social challenges in college.

Trust Yourself

Transitions can be challenging, and new experiences come with a learning curve. Trust in your abilities and accomplishments, and recognize that you have earned your place in college.

Explore Financial Aid

Understand the various financial aid options available, such as Cal Grants, Pell Grants, and student loans. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year to determine eligibility for financial aid.

Get Involved

Engage in campus activities, connect with faculty members, and seek mentorship. Making connections allows faculty to learn more about you, will make it easier to ask questions, and may result in exciting research/internship opportunities.

Manage Housing Costs

Consider on-campus and off-campus housing options, balancing costs and amenities. On-campus dorming is usually the most expensive option.

Utilize Basic Needs Centers

Access basic needs centers for food pantries, professional closets, and books and supplies.

Participate in First-Generation Week

Attend campus events during First-Generation Week to connect with other first-generation students and learn about available resources.

Colleges Offering Support to First-Generation Students

Many colleges actively support first-generation students through dedicated programs and resources. Examples include:

Penn State’s Student Success Centre
UCLA’s First to Go program (starting in 2026)

The Role of TRIO Programs

The concept of the "first-generation college student" was introduced by the TRIO community during the late 1970s Higher Education Act reauthorization and codified into law in the 1980 HEA reauthorization. TRIO programs aim to unify admission criteria and provide support services to first-generation students.

Celebrating First-Generation Success

Since 2017, campuses across the country have marked November 8 as the National First-Generation College Celebration Day, commemorating the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

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