Savanna Hoffman
A first-generation university student is a student whose parents or guardians did not attend university. First-generation students face unique challenges, such as unfamiliarity with the cultural norms and expectations of university life, and they may also come from low-income households or be the first in their family to pursue a stable career. First-generation students are a diverse group, with some being students of colour, children of immigrant parents, or working-class white students. Despite these differences, they are often highly motivated and eager to excel academically. There are approximately 4 million first-generation students in the US, making up more than half of all undergraduates. However, their graduation rate is lower than that of their peers. Supporting the success of first-generation students is crucial to improving diversity, equity, and accessibility on college campuses.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Formal definition | A student whose parent(s) did not complete a four-year college or university degree |
| Number of first-generation students | 8.2 million first-generation undergraduate students in the US |
| First-generation students as a percentage | 54% of all undergrads in the US |
| Graduation rate | 24% vs 59% for continuing-generation students |
| Application rate | Twice the rate of continuing-generation students |
| Family income | Some first-generation students come from low-income households |
| Race | Some first-generation students are students of color |
| Immigrant status | Some first-generation students are children of immigrant parents |
| Social capital | First-generation students may lack access to social capital, such as family members' prior experiences navigating college |
| Socioeconomic benefits | First-generation students may not have grown up with the socioeconomic benefits of having a parent with a degree |
| Cultural norms | First-generation students may have to learn the unspoken cultural norms and expectations of university life |
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What You'll Learn
First-generation student statistics
First-generation students are defined as those enrolled in postsecondary education whose parents did not attend college. First-generation students face many challenges that their continuing-education peers do not. They often have to navigate unfamiliar social, economic, and professional landscapes while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.
First-generation students make up a significant portion of the undergraduate population in the United States, with estimates ranging from 54% to 56% of all undergraduates. Despite their large numbers, first-generation students graduate at a lower rate than their peers, with a completion rate of 24% compared to 59% for continuing-generation students. This disparity has significant economic implications, as college graduates are more likely to be employed, earn higher wages, and be civically engaged.
The graduation gap between first-generation and continuing-generation students has been attributed to various factors, including financial and academic challenges. First-generation students tend to cluster at institutions with affordable tuition and less selective admission criteria, including two-year colleges and for-profit schools. Additionally, first-generation students are more likely to be first-generation Americans, with 10% being first-generation immigrants and 23% having foreign-born parents.
Closing the completion gap for first-generation students is a critical issue, and there are ongoing efforts to provide support and improve success outcomes for this population. The FirstGen Forward Network, for example, comprises over 400 institutions committed to harnessing the potential of first-generation students and improving their graduation rates. These efforts are crucial, as closing the completion gap has the potential to result in 4.4 million more graduates and a net benefit of $700 billion to the U.S. economy.
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First-generation student definition
A first-generation student is a broad term used to describe a student who is the first in their family to attend college or university. This definition is often expanded to include students whose parents did not complete a four-year college or university degree. Some institutions also include students whose parents did not graduate from high school in their definition of first-generation students.
First-generation students make up a significant portion of the undergraduate population in the U.S., with numbers ranging from 4 million to 8.2 million, which is more than half of all undergraduates. Despite their large numbers, first-generation students graduate at a lower rate than their peers, with a completion rate of 24% compared to 59% for continuing-generation students.
The term "first-generation" is associated with the lack of access to social capital and the challenges that come with navigating unfamiliar social, economic, and professional landscapes. Many first-generation students come from low-income households, are students of colour, or are the children of immigrant parents. They may also be working-class white students. Despite these differences, first-generation students often share common experiences and challenges, such as feeling disconnected from their peers and having to learn the unspoken cultural norms and expectations of university life.
There is no universally agreed-upon definition of a first-generation student, and the definition may vary depending on the institution and context. Some institutions and individuals may consider additional factors, such as the educational level of grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings, while others may focus solely on the parents' educational attainment.
The lack of a clear definition can lead to confusion and disagreement, as some students may no longer be considered first-generation if their parents or guardians enrol in university during their high school years. Additionally, the definition may not fully capture the diverse experiences and backgrounds of first-generation students, as it does not account for factors such as socioeconomic status, family dynamics, or the level of support received from family members.
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First-generation student challenges
First-generation students are more likely to face challenges when adjusting to college life and achieving academic success. The risk of a first-generation student leaving their college program in their first year is 71% higher than for non-first-generation students.
First-generation students often require developmental coursework and tend to have lower grade point averages than their peers with college-educated parents. This results in a lack of confidence in their academic abilities. Many first-generation students are from low-income families and attend underfunded schools, which affects the quality of education they receive. They also tend to have less core academic preparation and score lower on standardised tests.
First-generation students often experience guilt over leaving their families and financial responsibilities at home. They may feel embarrassed, as though they are "imposters" on campus, and have difficulty fitting in with their peers. They may also feel a lack of belonging compared to other students from different socioeconomic backgrounds.
First-generation students cannot rely on their families for advice or knowledge about the college experience. They may be less knowledgeable about navigating available resources, such as healthcare options, work-study programs, internships, and counselling. They are also more likely to work during the summer instead of taking up internships and cannot afford multiple college applications.
First-generation students face unique barriers due to their marginalised identities. More than half of first-generation students identify as non-white, and a large proportion are first-generation Americans or have foreign-born parents. They have to overcome racial disparities, discrimination, and prejudice, which can lead to alienation, isolation, and a negative impact on their mental health and academic performance.
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First-generation student support
First-generation students are defined as those whose parents or grandparents did not attend college or university. These students often face unique challenges and may require additional support to succeed in higher education. They may be navigating unfamiliar social, economic, and professional landscapes, and may not have the same access to social capital as their peers with college-educated family members.
First-generation students are a significant portion of the undergraduate population in many countries, with 8.2 million first-generation undergraduates in the U.S., representing over half of all undergraduates. Their success is of growing importance to colleges and universities as they seek to increase diversity, equity, and accessibility. While many institutions offer support for first-generation students, more can be done to ensure their success. Here are some ways in which colleges and universities can provide first-generation student support:
Financial Aid
One of the most significant challenges for first-generation students is financial burden. Colleges can help by offering first-gen-specific financial aid, such as scholarships and grants, to ensure that these students have the financial support they need to pursue their education.
Orientation Programs
First-generation students may benefit from orientation programs designed specifically for them. These programs can help students navigate the often complex landscape of higher education, including managing academics, finances, and campus life. Orientation programs can also help students connect with other first-generation students, fostering a sense of community and support.
Mental Health and Wellness Support
First-generation students may face unique mental health challenges as they navigate the demands of higher education. Colleges can offer coaching and support groups specifically tailored to the needs of first-generation students, helping them maintain their wellness and providing guidance on talking to their families about mental health concerns.
Improved Communication and Connection
Colleges should strive for improved communication and connection with first-generation students. This includes making all students aware of the resources available to them and ensuring that administrators and faculty are aware of the unique challenges faced by these students. Additionally, parent engagement initiatives can help involve families in the college experience and provide support for students transitioning to college life.
Evidence-Based Decision-Making
Dedicated first-generation research can inform evidence-based decision-making by institutions. This can include gathering data and insights on the unique needs and challenges of first-generation students and using this information to develop effective support strategies.
By implementing these initiatives and recognizing the specific needs of first-generation students, colleges and universities can play a crucial role in setting these students up for success and helping them achieve their educational and career goals.
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First-generation student experiences
First-generation students are defined as those whose parents did not attend college. However, the definition is not always clear-cut, as some institutions consider students first-generation if their parents did not graduate from college, even if they attended. Additionally, the definition can vary depending on the student's family structure; for example, if the student's grandparents attended college but their parents did not, or if the student's parents attended university overseas.
First-generation students often face unique challenges and obstacles during their college journey. They may have limited access to social capital and family support due to their parents' lack of experience with higher education. This can include navigating the college application process, understanding financial aid and scholarships, and making decisions about majors and career paths. First-generation students may also face financial constraints and be more likely to come from low-income communities, which can impact their ability to afford a four-year university.
Many first-generation students attend college to improve their career prospects and achieve social mobility. They may be navigating unfamiliar social, economic, and professional landscapes while also balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. First-generation students are often highly motivated and resilient, but they may also feel a sense of pressure and isolation during their college journey.
The experiences of first-generation students can vary widely depending on their individual backgrounds and circumstances. While some may come from disadvantaged groups and face significant challenges, others may have privileges that mitigate some of the common struggles. For example, attending a high school with competitive coursework and advanced placement classes can better prepare first-generation students for the rigours of college academics. Additionally, the support of family and mentors can play a crucial role in the success of first-generation students.
Despite the challenges, there are also unique privileges and strengths associated with being a first-generation student. These students often develop a strong sense of independence and resilience as they navigate the college landscape on their own. They may possess a determination to succeed and a willingness to seek out resources and support. Additionally, first-generation students can serve as inspirations to their families and communities, demonstrating that higher education is attainable even without a familial history of college attendance.
Overall, the experiences of first-generation students are diverse and complex. While they may face unique challenges, they also bring a wealth of strengths and perspectives to their college journeys. Supporting the success of first-generation students is crucial, and institutions are increasingly recognizing the importance of providing resources and mentorship to this growing population.
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Frequently asked questions
A first-generation university student is a student whose parents did not complete a four-year college or university degree.
First-generation students make up a large portion of undergraduates in the US. However, they graduate at a lower rate than their peers. Supporting first-generation students can help close the completion gap, resulting in a higher number of graduates and significant benefits for the economy and society.
First-generation students may struggle to relate to their peers who do not share their experience. They may have to navigate unfamiliar social, economic, and professional landscapes and learn the unspoken cultural norms and expectations of university life.
Institutions can provide dedicated resources, networks, and programs to help first-generation students connect and thrive on campus. They can also conduct first-generation research to inform evidence-based decision-making that supports the success of these students.
