First-Generation College Student? Here Is Your Complete Success Guide

First-generation college students represent more than half of all undergraduates in the United States. If neither of your parents completed a four-year degree, you are part of a resilient community that includes former President Bill Clinton, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Howard Schultz, and Oprah Winfrey.

Understanding the Challenge

Research shows that 33 percent of first-gen students drop out within three years, compared to just 14 percent of continuing-generation students. But this is not about ability - it is about access to information and support. That is exactly what this guide provides.

Financial Aid Is Your First Priority

Maximize FAFSA

The Federal Student Aid page is full of resources for completing the FAFSA, applying for student loans, and accessing Pell Grants. Pell Grants are for students who display exceptional financial need and do not have to be paid back.

Apply for Everything

Apply for every scholarship you are eligible for. Many scholarships are designed specifically for first-generation students, minorities, specific majors, or club involvement. Resources like UStrive and First Generation Scholars list scholarships exclusively for first-gen students.

Look Beyond Tuition

Search for scholarships that cover living expenses in addition to tuition and fees. These can make the difference between staying enrolled and having to leave.

Campus Resources to Find Immediately

When you arrive on campus, schedule a meeting with your academic advisor and ask about:

Many of these services are free but underutilized. Use them - that is why they exist.

Academic Success Strategies

Get Organized Early

Review each class syllabus immediately and organize your assignments. Test different note-taking strategies until you find what works. Use planners, apps, or to-do lists for time management.

Build Professor Relationships

Your professors want to see you succeed. Attend office hours, ask questions, and let them know you. These relationships lead to mentorship, research opportunities, and strong recommendation letters.

Meet Your Advisors

Schedule meetings with both your financial advisor and academic counselor early. Do not wait until problems arise.

Building Your Support Network

Connect with Peers

Finding a group of friends and mentors who share your goals and values can make all the difference. Look for first-gen student organizations on campus.

Join the FirstGen Forward Network

Sixty institutions join this network each year, committed to improving experiences for first-generation students. Check if your school is a member.

Access National Resources

Organizations like Rise First and Close the Gap Foundation provide mentoring, grants, and resources specifically for first-generation, low-income students.

Mental Health Matters

Find out if your school has an on-campus counseling center or community partnerships for mental health support. Services are often free or low cost. The transition to college, family dynamics, and academic pressure are all valid reasons to seek support.

How DeepCampus Helps

Our scholarship matching specifically identifies opportunities for first-generation students. Our university search highlights schools with strong first-gen support programs. You do not have to navigate this alone.

You belong here. Seek support, use every resource, and build the future you deserve.