Key Points
- Federal law defines a first-generation college student as someone whose parent or parents did not complete a four-year degree, but colleges sometimes use their own definitions.
- First-generation students may qualify for admissions support, scholarships, and specialized campus programs.
- The lack of a uniform definition can create confusion, but the designation can open doors to financial and academic resources.
On many college applications, students are asked about their parents’ education levels. The answers help schools determine whether an applicant qualifies as a first-generation college student.
For example, on the Common App, parents are asked if they completed college. If neither parent has a Bachelor's degree, "Other" degree or certificate, or higher, the applicant will be identified as first-generation.
The Higher Education Act of 1965, amended in 1998, defines first-generation students as those whose parents did not complete a baccalaureate degree. In cases where a student was raised by one parent, that parent’s educational level is the deciding factor.
This federal definition is straightforward, but institutions sometimes apply their own criteria. Some schools only recognize students as first-generation if no immediate family members, including siblings, grandparents, or others attended college. Some schools limit the designation to parental education alone, making grandparents’ or siblings’ education is irrelevant.
The lack of consistency means a student may be considered first-generation at one college but not at another, which can affect admissions and financial aid opportunities.
Would you like to save this?
We'll email this article to you, so you can come back to it later!
Why First Generation Students Matter For Admission And Financial Aid
Being identified as a first-generation student is more than a label: it can influence both admissions decisions and financial support. Colleges that use holistic reviews often weigh family background when evaluating applicants. For two students with similar test scores and grades, first-generation status can tip the balance.
Financial benefits can also be significant. Many schools offer scholarships earmarked for first-generation students, along with fee waivers during the application process. Some provide stipends for books, technology, or even living expenses.
Princeton University’s Scholars Institute Fellows Program, for example, offers mentorship and academic support for students who are both low-income and first-generation.
Federal programs also play a role. Pell Grants and TRIO programs often rely on the federal definition when extending support to students without parents who completed a bachelor’s degree.
Navigating College And Finding Support
Beyond admissions and aid, first-generation students often face challenges in adapting to campus life. Without parents who have navigated higher education, they may lack guidance on course planning, financial aid, or the social aspects of college.
In response, many schools have created programs designed to help these students succeed. Duke University’s LIFE, Harvard’s First PRIMUS, and similar programs elsewhere provide mentoring, community events, and academic workshops. These initiatives aim to build a sense of belonging and reduce the isolation some first-generation students report.
College counselors encourage students to seek out such resources early. Mentorship, peer networks, and financial counseling can make the transition smoother, particularly for those juggling work and family responsibilities alongside their studies.
The Bigger Picture
Regardless of first-generation status, financial aid begins with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Data shows that only about 58% of high school seniors complete the FAFSA each year, with completion rates even lower among first-generation and low-income students. Missing out on this form can mean leaving substantial grant aid on the table.
Filling out the FAFSA promptly can make a difference not only in qualifying for federal aid but also for state financial aid programs and institutional scholarships, some of which prioritize first-generation students.
Ultimately, while definitions vary, the designation of first-generation matters because it shapes opportunities. It signals resilience and potential in the admissions process, can lead to financial assistance, and connects students to resources designed to help them succeed.
Common Questions
What is a first-generation college student?
A first-generation college student is typically defined as someone whose parent or parents did not complete a four-year bachelor’s degree. Under federal law, if a student was raised by one parent who did not earn such a degree, they are also considered first-generation. However, colleges often set their own definitions, and some schools require that neither parent attended college at all.
Does being a first-generation student help in college admissions?
Yes, it can. Many colleges use holistic admissions and factor in a student’s background. Being first-generation may give applicants an advantage when admissions officers weigh academic achievements against family educational history. It shows accomplishment without the guidance of college-educated parents, which can strengthen an application.
What financial aid or scholarships are available for first-generation students?
First-generation students often have access to dedicated scholarships, grants, and college application fee waivers. Programs like TRIO consider this status, and some colleges offer campus-specific awards or book stipends.
How do I know if I qualify as a first-generation student?
It depends on the school. Generally, if neither parent has completed a bachelor’s degree, you qualify. But because some colleges include parents who attended college without graduating, and others consider associate degrees, it’s important to check each institution’s definition. When in doubt, ask the admissions office.
What support exists for first-generation students once they are on campus?
Many colleges have programs to help first-generation students adjust to college life. These may include summer bridge programs, mentorship from faculty and peers, networking groups, or dedicated student unions. Schools like Princeton, Harvard, and Duke have structured support systems that connect first-generation students with resources and communities to help them succeed.
Don't Miss These Other Stories:
Editor: Colin Graves
Robert Farrington is the founder of The College Investor and is widely recognized as one of the nation’s leading voices on student loan debt and saving for college. He holds an MBA from UC San Diego Rady School of Management and has spent over 15 years researching, writing, and advising on student loans, 529 plans, financial aid programs, and saving and investing for young professionals.
Robert has been featured in the The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, NBC News, and Forbes, where he has been a regular personal finance contributor for over a decade. His work combines both professional expertise and personal experience – he successfully navigated his own student loan repayment journey and has helped thousands of readers do the same.
He is committed to making the intersection of personal finance and education transparent and accessible. You can learn more about Robert on the About Page or on his personal site RobertFarrington.com.