A Guide for First-Generation College Students and Their Families

A first-generation college student is generally one whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year degree, though colleges define the term in slightly different ways. If that describes you, you are not behind. You are doing something that many people before you have done, and there are programs built specifically to help. The hardest part is often that the process comes with its own vocabulary that everyone else seems to know.

Learn the vocabulary first

Terms like early decision, deferral, prerequisite, credit hour, and FAFSA are not self-explanatory. Our glossary is written for exactly this situation. Skim it before you read anything else, and come back to it whenever a new word shows up.

The big pieces of the process

• Choosing where to apply. Start with a mix of school types and selectivity levels. Our College Finder and guide to building a college list can help you see a realistic range.
• The application. Most colleges accept the Common App. Read what the Common App is and the essay prompts explained.
• Deadlines. Our senior-year timeline lays out what happens when.
• Paying for it. Apply for federal aid with the FAFSA, which is free (see FAFSA vs. CSS Profile). Learn to compare award letters and to avoid scholarship scams.
• Fee waivers. If application fees are a barrier, see college application fee waivers.

Where to find real, free help

• Your school counselor. Make an appointment early, tell them you are the first in your family to apply, and ask what local programs exist.
• College access organizations. Many communities have nonprofits that coach students through applications and financial aid at no cost.
• Federal TRIO programs. TRIO is a set of federally funded programs, including ones such as Upward Bound and Student Support Services, that serve students from low-income families and first-generation students. Ask your counselor whether a program is available in your area or at the colleges you are considering.
• College first-generation offices. Many colleges have a dedicated office or program for first-generation students that offers advising, community, and sometimes extra funding. When you visit or email, ask about it directly.
• College admissions and financial aid offices. Their job is to answer your questions. Calling or emailing them is normal and expected.

Talking with your family

Parents often want to help but are unsure how. A few things make those conversations easier:

• Share the timeline and checklist so everyone knows what is due when.
• Be specific about what you need, for example help reading a form or someone to proofread an essay.
• Bring your family to a visit or virtual session if you can, since seeing the process firsthand helps many parents feel less anxious.
• Check our guide for parents, written for families going through this for the first time.

Once you are on campus

The challenges do not stop at admission. Many first-generation students say the hardest adjustment is learning unwritten rules, like how to use office hours, ask for help, or find an advisor. Use your college's resources early, before you feel stuck. Tutoring centers, writing centers, and advising exist for everyone, and using them is normal.

If you are unsure about your major, you are in good company. See how to choose a college major and still undecided by sophomore year.

Program names, eligibility rules, and funding vary, so confirm details with your counselor and with each college.