It feels like going onto a stage when everyone else knows the script when you’re a first-generation college applicant. But this is precisely why colleges want students like you: you have a new point of view, a strong work ethic, and a narrative that has to be told. And as you go through the application season, it is helpful to have some tips to keep you focused and confident.
How to Be Considered a First-Generation College Student?
Colleges use this designation to identify students who may have faced additional obstacles on their path to higher education. Because of that, the definition is more specific than it might appear at first glance.
Generally, you’re considered a first-generation student if neither of your parents has earned a four-year college or university degree. However, the details can vary slightly depending on the school and its policies.
Below is a simple way to figure out if you meet the criteria:
- Your parents did not complete a four-year bachelor’s degree.
- Your parent(s) may have attended college but did not graduate.
- Your parent(s) completed a degree outside the U.S. that isn’t equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
- You grew up without consistent guidance from someone with a traditional college background.
Since there’s no universal definition, checking each college’s policies is always a smart move.
For example, some institutions consider students first generation even if a parent attended college but did not complete their degree. Others recognize students whose parents completed education outside the country but at a level that doesn’t align with the U.S. bachelor’s degree structure.
As a side note, some students don’t even realize they’re first-gen. Maybe your parents took a few college classes, finished a community college program, or earned a vocational certificate. They might’ve even studied abroad in a system that doesn’t match a U.S. bachelor’s degree. What matters is that no one at home completed a typical four-year degree or could guide them through that process.
How Colleges Support First-Generation Students?
Colleges and universities understand that first-gen students have a different starting point. That’s why so many schools put extra support in place to help you settle in and offer programs that guide you through academics, finances, and campus life. This academic support makes going to college feel way less stressful.
So, if you’re a first-gen college student, you can expect support like this.
| Type of Support | Benefits You Get |
|---|---|
| Academic Advising | Help choosing classes, planning your degree, improving study skills, and handling office hours. |
| Mentorship Programs | You will have the opportunity to interact with older students, college graduates, and mentors who can show you the ropes and answer your questions. |
| Financial Aid Guidance | Support with Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scholarships, and managing your budget. |
| First Gen Centers and Clubs | A community space where you connect with people who get your experience. |
There are a lot of advantages to being the first in your family to go to college.
What does this look like in real life? Well, UCLA has the First To Go program that pairs first-gen students with mentors. The University of Michigan runs SuccessConnects, where first-year students get personalized coaching. And one more good example is Stanford, which offers the Frosh 101 course to help new learners adjust socially and academically.
How to Stand Out When Applying to College as a First-Gen Student?
It’s a chance to show colleges who you really are and how your experiences have shaped you. Since you’re doing a lot of this without someone at home who’s already been through the process, your application naturally tells a different kind of story. Admissions committees genuinely pay attention to that.
A strong first-gen application starts with being honest. If you’ve had responsibilities like working part-time, helping your family, or translating paperwork, these experiences say a lot. But don’t need to exaggerate anything. You only need to explain what you did, why it mattered, and how it formed your goals.
It also helps to highlight initiative wherever it shows up. Maybe you reached out to a teacher for extra help, took a hard class because you wanted the challenge, or taught yourself something online because it wasn’t offered at your school. These small choices prove you’re motivated.
Everything in your application should work together. Personal statement, activities list, recommendation letters, and short answers should all point to the same: you’re reflective, responsible, and ready for what comes next.
Remember, perfect grades or a long list of activities aren’t enough to stand out. All you need is a clear voice and a sense of who you are. Colleges love seeing growth, resilience, and purpose, and as a first-gen student, you already have all three.
7 Tips For First-Generation College Students
Being a first generation student means you’re stepping into higher education with a unique story, and that already sets you apart. Still, there are some ways to show what really makes you exceptional.
Get Familiar with the Higher Ed System
College has its own ecosystem, and the sooner you learn how it works, the easier everything becomes. You don’t need to become an expert overnight. Just get familiar with the basics of college experience: all majors, credits, advisors, deadlines, and how to read your degree requirements.
Once you understand the structure, choosing classes and planning your semester won’t feel like guesswork anymore.
Take Advantage of Office Hours
Office hours might sound awkward, but professors genuinely expect you to show up. It’s the perfect time to ask questions, get clarity on topics you’re struggling with, or even talk about your goals. A quick conversation makes classes feel less confusing and helps you build a real connection with your professor.
Apply for Scholarships Early and Often
Not just straight-A can apply for scholarships. FYI, there are many opportunities for first-gen students, volunteers, athletes, and creators. You name it.
We recommend starting with a few main categories:
- Local community or school scholarships.
- National first-generation scholarships.
- Smaller awards from nonprofits or clubs.
- University-specific scholarships you can apply for after you enroll.
Even the smaller ones make a difference. They add up quickly and help cut down on financial stress, which means you can focus more on studying and less on bills.
Connect With a Mentor
Finding a mentor makes student success feel much more achievable. This person might be a professor you click with, an advisor who understands your goals, or an older student who’s already familiar with the realities of first generation college life.
Because first-gen students often face unique challenges, having someone experienced to talk to can help you avoid unnecessary mistakes, choose classes that fit your strengths, and spot opportunities you might overlook.
Mentors also tend to become the people who later recommend you for internships, leadership positions, or special programs. These are advantages continuing-generation students often take for granted.
Understand Financial Aid
Financial aid is confusing at first, especially when you’re applying to college without anyone in your family to attend college before you. The forms, deadlines, and renewal requirements may feel like a lot, but learning the basics early makes everything easier.
But knowing how FAFSA works, keeping track of school-specific documents, and understanding what needs to be updated each year helps you stay confident. Getting ahead of financial aid reduces stress and also shows you’re ready to handle real responsibilities.
Build Connection on College Campus
College is a time when your connections matter just as much as your assignments. Joining clubs, talking to classmates, or showing up to campus events helps you feel more grounded and supported. These relationships often lead to new friendships, leadership roles, and even your first internship.
When you build your community, you can more easily survive college and create a meaningful experience.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Everyone needs help at some point, and student support systems exist for a reason. Tutoring centers, writing labs, career advisors, and mental health services are all there to make your life easier.
Final Tips for First-Gen College Students
As you wrap up your college prep, remember that you don’t have to have every detail figured out. Stay organized, ask for help when things get confusing, and take the process one step at a time. And don’t hesitate to reach out to some of the best college admission consultants and counselors if you want extra guidance or a second opinion.
Most of all, trust your story. You’ve already proven you can handle challenges, so keep going.