Janice Lozano
First-generation college students are defined as students whose parents did not receive a four-year degree. These students often face challenges when it comes to financing their college education, as they may have limited financial support from their families and may be unfamiliar with the financial aid process. However, there are several options available to help first-generation students pay for college, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, campus jobs, and student loans. Additionally, many colleges offer financial aid and support programs specifically for first-generation students. While the cost of college can be daunting, first-generation students can access various resources and support to help make their college dreams a reality.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First-generation college student definition | Any student whose parents did not receive a four-year degree and the first person attaining a four-year degree or beyond |
| First-generation college student demographics | Low-income families, underrepresented ethnic or racial groups |
| First-generation college student challenges | More likely to drop out, lack of family support, lack of knowledge about financial aid |
| Paying for college as a first-generation student | Scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, student employment, loans, campus jobs, Pell Grant, Cal Grant A, Cal Grant B, FAFSA |
| Support for first-generation college students | Financial aid options, mentoring opportunities, academic counseling, networking opportunities, career development guidance |
| Tips for filling out FAFSA as a first-generation student | Prepare early, ask for help, stay organized, gather documents early, be aware of deadlines |
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What You'll Learn
Scholarships and grants
When applying for scholarships, it is important to carefully review the criteria and demonstrate how you meet them. Financial need is often a primary factor in first-generation scholarships, but other factors such as academic merit, leadership, community involvement, and overcoming adversity may also be considered. Some scholarships are specific to certain locations, such as the Taigh Scholarship, which is for residents of Peacham, or the UChicago First Phoenix Scholarship, which is for students at the University of Chicago. Others are aimed at particular racial or ethnic groups, such as the scholarship for Mexican-American students offered by Scholarships360, or the Delta Beta Psi Sorority scholarship for BIPOC students.
In addition to scholarships, grants are another source of funding for first-generation students. Grants, like scholarships, do not need to be repaid. Federal grants, such as the Pell Grant, are available to first-generation students who demonstrate financial need. State grants are also an option, and in some cases, you can combine first-generation scholarships with federal and state grants to maximize your financial aid. For example, the Cal Grant A helps pay for tuition and fees at four-year colleges in California, while the Cal Grant B provides a living allowance of up to $1,648, in addition to tuition and fee assistance.
To access grants and need-based scholarships, you will typically need to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine your financial need. Some colleges may also require the CSS Profile for institutional financial aid. It is important to submit these applications early, as financial aid is often limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. In addition to need-based aid, some colleges may offer merit-based scholarships, so be sure to research the specific opportunities available at your chosen institution.
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Student employment
When considering student employment, it is important to look for jobs that offer tuition benefits on top of a wage. For example, some colleges offer their student workers a discount on their tuition fees. Additionally, on-campus jobs like resident assistant (RA) positions often come with free room and board, which can save students a significant amount of money. Other on-campus jobs include working in the library, fitness centre, or as a note-taker.
First-generation students may also want to consider completing their first two years at a community college, which can be more affordable, before transferring to a four-year college. During their time at college, students can also take advantage of career internships and career-related student employment opportunities, which can provide not only financial benefits but also help accumulate knowledge, skills, and networks that promote social mobility after graduation.
In addition to student employment, first-generation students can explore other financial aid options such as grants, scholarships, and federal loans. They can also look into state and community financial aid programs, as well as specialised programs like TRIO SSS, which cater specifically to first-generation students.
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Loans
Subsidised federal loans are a good option, but they may not cover all your costs. In this case, you may need to take out an unsubsidised federal loan, which is available to all students regardless of financial need. However, you will be responsible for paying the interest on these loans, which can add up quickly.
Another option is to take out a low-interest loan from a state agency. These loans may not need to be repaid if you find employment for a certain number of years after graduating. Additionally, some colleges and universities have links to grant programs that offer low-interest loans to first-generation students.
Private loans from banks or other lenders are also an option, but they typically come with higher interest rates and less favourable terms than federal loans.
While loans can help you pay for college, it's important to remember that they are not free money and will need to be repaid with interest. Therefore, it's essential to explore other options, such as scholarships, grants, and work opportunities, to minimise your debt.
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FAFSA and financial aid
FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is the official form that students or their families use to apply for financial assistance for college from the federal government. It is used to determine how much financial aid a student qualifies for, including both need-based and non-need-based aid. This includes federal, state, and school-based aid, as well as merit-based scholarships.
The FAFSA asks a series of questions about the parents' and student's income and assets, as well as other factors, such as the number of children in the family. It then comes up with a Student Aid Index (SAI), which determines whether the student qualifies for need-based aid, non-need-based aid, or a combination of the two. The SAI is used by colleges and universities to determine how much money a student qualifies to receive in grants, scholarships, and loans.
Grants are the most attractive type of financial aid because they do not need to be repaid. Pell Grants, for example, are federal grants intended for students with exceptional financial need. For the 2024-25 award year, the maximum award is $7,395. Other grants include the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), which are also based on financial need.
In addition to grants, students may also qualify for subsidized or unsubsidized federal loans. Subsidized loans are for students who can demonstrate financial need, and the interest on these loans is paid by the U.S. Department of Education while the student is in school. Unsubsidized loans, on the other hand, are available to most students regardless of need.
It is important to note that the FAFSA is not just for students with financial need. Regardless of family income, students may be eligible for some form of financial assistance. Therefore, it is recommended that all college-bound students or their families fill out the FAFSA to maximize their financial aid opportunities.
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Alternative education options
First-generation students are defined as those whose parents did not receive a four-year degree and who are themselves pursuing a four-year degree or beyond. These students often face challenges related to economic and social factors, and they may feel out of place in higher education.
- Community college: First-generation students often attend community college initially and then transfer to a four-year institution. This can be a more affordable option, and it allows students to complete their general education requirements at a lower cost before transferring to their desired university.
- Part-time enrollment: Many first-generation students choose to enroll part-time, allowing them to balance their studies with work or other commitments. This option can provide a more flexible and affordable path to obtaining a degree.
- Online learning: Online degree programs or virtual campus tours can offer a convenient and flexible alternative to traditional on-campus education. This option may be particularly beneficial for first-generation students who have work or family commitments that make it difficult to attend classes in person.
- Regional campuses: Regional campuses of universities may offer a more affordable alternative to the main campus location. Students can take advantage of the same degree programs at a lower cost while still benefiting from the university's resources and reputation.
- Study abroad: While studying abroad may seem costly, there are nonprofits and organizations that offer financial aid and scholarships specifically for study-abroad programs. This option can provide a unique cultural experience and enhance a student's resume.
Additionally, first-generation students can explore various financial aid options, such as grants, scholarships, and subsidized federal student loans, to help fund their education. It is important to research and understand the different sources of financial aid and their respective terms and conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
First-generation students can pay for college through scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and federal loans. Some colleges also offer students jobs on campus, such as a resident assistant, which can help pay for tuition or housing.
The First Generation Foundation encourages first-gen and low-income students to pursue academically rigorous higher education and shares tips and resources to help students achieve that goal. The Scholarship System is another resource that provides a step-by-step framework to help families find and win scholarships.
The federal Pell Grant is one of the most talked-about forms of financial aid available. It is designed to make college more affordable for students with financial needs. Cal Grant A and Cal Grant B are other grants that help pay for tuition and other additional fees.
First-generation students can take on jobs as resident assistants, which often come with free room and board. Other jobs on campus include working in the library, fitness center, or as a note-taker.
