First Generation Lower Income (FGLI) College Student? Start Here

Starting college preparations — from figuring out applications and financial aid to navigating freshman orientation — is exciting, but it can quickly become daunting for any student and their family. And first-generation college students often face extra challenges.

You’re considered a first-generation college student if neither of your parents completed a four-year degree. Congrats on breaking new ground for your family! Here are some of the challenges you may encounter.

• Less guidance, since you may not have family members to give you advice or share their experiences.
• Financial hurdles, since many first-generation students come from families with limited financial resources, creating barriers to affording college, covering living expenses, and managing student loans.
• Balancing responsibilities, since a good percentage of first-generation students juggle school with family responsibilities like caring for younger siblings.

The good news? You’re not alone! Many students are the first in their families to attend college. Here are some recommendations and suggestions to help you navigate this transition.

What does “First-generation college student” really mean?

Think of college as a family tradition. If your parents earned a four-year degree, like a bachelor’s, you’re part of a “continuing generation” in college. Your family has experienced higher education in the past.

But if neither parent has finished a four-year degree? That makes you a first-generation college student — you’re the first person in your family to make this journey. Now, this definition is a bit more complicated, depending on the following scenarios.

If your parents earned a degree outside the U.S., you might still be considered first-generation. Even if your grandparents, aunts, or cousins attended college, your status doesn’t automatically change. If your parents attended community college and earned an associate (two-year) degree but not a four-year degree, you’re still considered first-generation.

Why do these factors matter? Because understanding your status as a first-generation student can help you find resources and support designed specifically for you. Many colleges have programs and services to help first-generation students succeed. 

Remember — your journey is unique, and your family’s educational background is just one part of the story.

Resources for first-gen college students

Starting college is a significant milestone, and first-generation students may feel quite alone and overwhelmed. Some experience “imposter syndrome,” feeling like they don’t belong or deserve to attend college. Remember — you’ve earned your place, and it’s okay to seek support from your family, teachers, friends, and college resources. 

Look for programs specifically designed for first-generation college students

It’s never too early to start prepping for college. Begin by meeting with your high school’s academic advisor or guidance counselor. They’ll help you stay on track for graduation and answer your questions about the college application process.

Many organizations offer valuable resources, too. For example, America Needs You (ANY) has fellowship programs supporting low-income, first-generation college students. These programs help students thrive in college and prepare for the job market. ANY also offers a free program called FirstGenU that offers guidance on career planning, interviewing skills, and workplace adjustment.

Choose your college path

You have dozens of options — a traditional university where you live on campus and completely immerse yourself in the college experience. Or perhaps you’d prefer an online college, which offers more flexibility for students balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.

Studies have shown that first-generation students enroll in less selective colleges at higher rates than non-first-gen students. But many more highly selective, top-tier colleges have implemented significant resources to help first-generation students thrive.

• Colorado State University: The university offers first-generation scholarships to help its 25%+ first-generation students thrive.
• Duke University: 10% of the university students are first-generation and have access to DukeLife, a program offering holistic support for all FGLI students.
• Harvard University: Over 15% of its students are first-generation college students, and the college has a first-generation program to help students apply.
• Rice University: The support for FGLI students includes a range of programs and services from new family orientation and FLI Ambassadors to the Access and Opportunity Portal, the Pantry, and FLI Network Supporters.
• Texas Tech University: The university has a transition and mentorship program specific to first-generation college students. 
• University of Cincinnati: The university’s “Gen-1” program is the country’s first living-learning community specifically designed for first-generation college students.
• Yale University: To support and empower first-generation students, the university created the FGLI Community Initiative.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs and goals. To help you find the right fit, check out the “I’m First!” website. This organization partners with colleges that specifically support first-generation students. Its website provides information on programs for low-income learners, college statistics, and application details.

Explore the LEDA Scholars program

Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America (LEDA) recruits 11th graders each year to form a cohort of 100 students who have the potential to become leaders but lack the support and exposure to attend highly selective colleges. 

This program offers leadership development training, academic support through writing workshops and test preparation, and personalized guidance throughout the college application and admissions process. LEDA continues to support college graduates with ongoing mentorship, career counseling, and postgraduate planning assistance. 

Here’s more information on the three-part application process, which you can start when the application opens in September. 

Explore scholarships

There are dozens of scholarships available for FGLI students. Here are just a few to consider researching when you’re a high school senior.

• Ron Brown Scholars Program awards $40,000 scholarships.
• KPMG Future Leaders Program awards $10,000 scholarships/year for four years.
• National Horatio Alger Scholarship awards scholarships to students pursuing a bachelor’s and associate’s degrees, certificate program, or post-graduate degree.
• Coca-Cola Scholarship awards annual scholarships worth over $3.5 million.
• Jackie Kent Cooke Scholarship awards full-ride scholarships (tuition, room and board).
• Gates Millennium Scholarship awards full-ride scholarships (tuition, room and board).

As Michelle Obama, a first-generation college student, said, “No matter where you come from, or how much money your family has, I want you to know that you can succeed in college, and get your degree, and then go on to build an incredible life for yourself. That’s been my life story and my husband’s as well.” 

Want more tips and insights? Check out our full Guide to College Admissions here.