A first-generation college student is typically defined as a student whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college degree. The definition, however, can change from person to person and across institutions. Despite these variations, the core idea remains the same: these students are pioneers in higher education for their families.
First-generation students often face unique challenges in the college admissions process. To help families with first-generation students navigate the process, we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips and considerations.
Determining whether or not you’re a first-generation college student will depend on the institution and the criteria they use. Generally, if neither of your parents earned a four-year college degree, you would be considered a first-generation student. However, the definition has evolved over time, with many institutions recognizing the nuanced experiences of students.
Below is a list of the various definitions institutions use to identify a first-generation college student:
These same definitions can be applied to students if they have older siblings who did not complete a degree or attend a two-year college program.
Applying to college as a first-generation student can be both exciting and overwhelming. Since they don’t have direct parental guidance or historical experience to leverage, they often rely on external resources for support.
Understanding what perks and challenges can come with the process is the best way to stay on the right track. Below are some of the ways the college admissions process can differ for first-generation students.
There are many unique scholarships reserved for first-generation students. There are many online resources and tools students can use to identify and apply for local, state, and federal scholarships.
Some of the more popular scholarships include:
The Gates Scholarship is a highly competitive scholarship for minority, low-income and/or first-generation students.
The Coca-Cola First-Generation Scholarship (as emphasized in the title) is reserved for first-generation students who demonstrate financial need, with a maximum scholarship amount of $10,000.
Some colleges make an active effort to prioritize the admission of first-generation students. They make up a significant portion of many incoming classes across the country. Although the percentage of first-generation applicants varies from institution to institution as well as the year, studies have shown that at least 20% of incoming students on a national level identify as first-generation. This statistic highlights an increasing focus on first-generation students.
The college admissions process can be challenging, but with the right approach, students can feel confident about their path forward.
There are many moving pieces in college admissions, with changes happening every year. Starting the process early gives students more time to build their academic portfolios, consider college options, explore financial aid opportunities, and more. A proactive approach can make a difference for students who are unfamiliar with every aspect of the college admissions process.
Starting early also gives students and their parents and guardians enough time to ask questions and seek support from professionals. Whether it’s from a school counselor, peers, or a private counseling service (like Collegewise!), asking for mentorship is not a sign of weakness. It’s a strategy that can create a more successful and manageable experience.
Related: College Application Deadlines: A Full Guide
Remaining honest throughout the application is important to ensure colleges understand a student’s unique circumstances and their eligibility for scholarships, financial aid, and more.
Students should never attempt to falsify or misrepresent information in hopes of manipulating an outcome. Colleges can (and will) verify information. Stay true to your story!
There are a handful of online resources dedicated to supporting first-generation college students. Beyond that, many colleges offer support programs, mentorship opportunities, or unique resources to help first-generation students transition into college.
A few examples include:
While there is no official data to prove that colleges favor first-generation students, many colleges do take their status into account while evaluating them holistically; recognizing the obstacles that can come from being the first in their family to apply and/or attend college.
The list of colleges offering support to first-generation students is extensive. However, here are three of the top schools that actively continue their support in 2025 and beyond. To understand more about a college’s programs and if they’re right for you, head to the official college website for more information.
The University of Buffalo’s Proud to be First program offers mentorship and engagement opportunities for first-generation students on campus.
Penn State’s Student Success Centre is dedicated to supporting first-generation students. Their support includes their annual First-Generation Student Support Summit and First-Generation Celebration, which aims to celebrate and recognize students across campus.
Additionally, Penn State’s student-led First-Gen Advocates (FGA) organization mentors first-generation advancement through organized workshops, networking opportunities, and community-building events.
Starting in 2026, UCLA’s First to Go program promotes campus involvement and engagement opportunities for first-generation students. Their resources include an ongoing newsletter, organized events, and resource guides to help with student transitions.
As a first-generation college student, you likely have a lot of questions about the process. And so, we've created a list of helpful resources to guide you along the way.
About Us: With more than 25 years of experience, Collegewise counselors and tutors are at the forefront of the ever-evolving admissions landscape. Our work has always centered on you: the family. And just like we’ve always done, we look for ways for your student to be their best self - whether in the classroom, the applications, or in the right-fit college environment. Our range of counseling, test prep, academic tutoring, and essay management, all with the support of our proprietary platform, lead to 4x higher than average admissions rates.