10 Best Colleges for First-Generation Students in 2025

First-generation college students are learners whose parents or guardians haven't earned a bachelor's degree from a four-year college. Historically, undergraduate students from families with no college background encounter unique academic and social challenges that can impact their ability to complete their degree programs.

Fortunately, hundreds of schools offer initiatives to guide and support learners in this circumstance. Keep reading to discover some of the nation's best colleges for first-generation students.

What Does It Mean To Be a First-Generation College Student?

Being the first in your family to attend a traditional four-year school sometimes means navigating the college experience on your own. Without help from loved ones with a collegiate background, tasks like submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can be more challenging.

Families of first-gen students may also struggle with providing advice for meeting class expectations, managing time, and balancing school with a social life. This lack of guidance can leave students uncertain of how to excel in college. As a result, some choose to cut their journeys short.

What To Look for in a College as a First-Generation Student

Many schools offer programs and resources to help students from families without a college background navigate their academic journey. The Center for First-Generation Student Success's FirstGen Forward Network highlights over 400 institutions that prioritize the needs of first-gen students. At these schools, learners might benefit from:

• first-gen student outreach programs and support services
• academic resources for first-generation learners
• first-gen scholarships or other funding
• welcome and celebration events for first-gen students

Top Colleges for First-Generation College Students

If you're a first-generation student interested in pursuing a four-year degree, there are plenty of schools ready to address your unique needs. Review the list below to discover colleges dedicated to serving first-gen learners.

1. Florida International University

First-generation students make up one-third of Florida International University's undergraduate population. To support these enrollees, the school offers on-campus support services, including Student Access and Success (SAS), which provides academic and financial assistance to underserved learners.

FIU also delivers Upward Bound and other TRIO programs to enhance first-gen students' academic experiences. Thanks in part to these efforts, the first-to-second-year retention rate among FIU's first-gen students is an impressive 91.8%.

• Estimated tuition cost: $3,084 per semester (in-state); $9,283 per semester (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: FIU's First Generation Scholarship Program provides financial support to first-gen students who submit a FAFSA form and qualify for the Pell Grant.
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. University of Nebraska at Kearney

At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, four in 10 learners identify as first-generation students. UNK offers the Loper Success Academy, which provides peer coaching, small peer groups, and workshops to help first-gen students confidently navigate their academic journeys.

Enrollees can also benefit from the ''How to Be First'' video podcast, which provides tips and advice for first-gen students seeking academic, social, and career guidance. Undergrads seeking additional help can work directly with UNK's First Gen leadership team.

• Estimated tuition cost: $7,020 per year (in-state); $15,330 per year (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: Nearly nine out of 10 freshmen attending UNK receive scholarships and/or grants.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Nevada State University

Nevada State University offers dozens of academic programs for students interested in various disciplines. For first-gen enrollees who want to excel in their studies, the school offers First & Fierce, an initiative helping students reach academic and personal milestones and enjoy a successful college experience.

Learners utilizing this resource can access financial funding, tutoring services, time management help, and self-care support. First & Fierce also hosts first-gen events, including the First Gen Month Kick-Off, First Gen Social, and First Gen Fair.

• Estimated tuition cost: $7,290 per year (resident); $22,765 per year (non-resident)
• Financial aid: The First & Fierce Scholarship offers eligible first-gen students $2,000 for an academic year ($1,000 in the fall and $1,000 in the spring).
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

4. University of North Carolina at Greensboro

With more than half of all undergraduates at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro self-identifying as first-generation learners, the school offers several services and events to provide student support. For instance, ''First G at the G'' is a week-long series of programs linking first-gen students with other first-gen learners, faculty members, and campus resources.

UNC Greensboro's first-gen support team specializes in mental health, financial aid, mentorship, and career development. The team also helps students set academic goals, build self-esteem, and navigate campus life.

• Estimated tuition cost: $7,731 per year (in-state); $24,705 per year (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: UNC Greensboro offers federal financial aid and scholarships, such as the UNCG Guarantee program, which provides financial and academic support to high-achieving, low-income North Carolina students.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh's first-gen learners represent 41% of the student body. To accommodate their needs, the school aligns with the national First Scholars program from FirstGen Forward.

Enrollees can benefit from the McNair Scholars Program for high-achieving marginalized learners (including first-gen students). The school's First-Gen College Student Organization creates a safe space, while the Tri-Alpha Honors Society promotes academic excellence and community service for first-gen students.

• Estimated tuition cost: $4,422 per semester (in-state); $8,498 per semester (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: Students attending OWU can make learning more affordable with grants, scholarships, and work-study jobs.
• Accreditation: HLC

6. Kansas State University

The First-generation Student Center at Kansas State University offers on-campus and remote resources, including career support, advocacy services, and academic advising, for first-generation students and family members. Recognition initiatives include First-generation Student Celebration Week and the First-generation Graduation Celebration.

First-gen students enrolled at K-State can choose from more than 250 undergraduate academic programs. The Academic Achievement Center and programs like TRIO are available to support and enhance their educational journeys.

• Estimated tuition cost: $12,694 per year (in-state); $30,388 per year (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: Students can pursue federal financial aid and first-gen funding like the Proud to Be First Scholarships.
• Accreditation: HLC

7. University of Louisville

At the University of Louisville, which offers undergraduate degrees in dozens of subject areas, first-gen learners can benefit from support programs developed specifically to help them excel. TRIO programs, student success coordinators, and 1st UP small group peer mentoring provide educational and personal guidance.

First Year Experience events include Welcome Week and Winter Welcome. The school also celebrates UofL first-gen students at the National First-Gen Student Celebration.

• Estimated tuition cost: $13,390 per year (in-state); $29,736 per year (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: In addition to federal financial aid, the school offers the Completion Grant, which can help first-gen students fund their college education.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

8. James Madison University

James Madison University supports enrollees with limited prior exposure to or knowledge of the college experience via resources located in the Reddix Center. The Office of Family Engagement answers questions year-round to help students feel confident in their academic experiences.

Academic advising makes it easier for first-gen students to pick from dozens of undergraduate programs offered at JMU and excel in their studies. The school also helps enrollees locate mentors, counseling, financial assistance, and more.

• Estimated tuition cost: $14,300 per year (in-state); $31,906 per year (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: At JMU, learners can reduce tuition and fees with grants, scholarships, and federal work-study jobs.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. University of California, Riverside

At the University of California, Riverside, over half of the enrolled students are categorized as first-generation. To accommodate their needs, the school hosts quarterly activities, workshops, and events, and promotes campus involvement, success, and retention.

Services include the First Generation Mentorship Program (FGMP), which pairs first-gen students with UCR faculty, staff, or alumni members. TRIO Scholars aims to improve the graduation rates of first-generation and other qualifying students.

• Estimated tuition cost: $14,934 per year (in-state); $52,536 per year (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: In addition to federal financial aid, students can join the Kessler Scholars Program, which provides four years of financial and academic support to first-gen students.
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

10. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Nearly one in four incoming students at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign identify as first-gen students. To help them navigate college admissions, the school guides the application process and provides financial aid advice.

First-gen students also benefit from events and campus resources designed to help them excel academically. Programs and services include TRIO, the FOCUS Program, and the Mannie L. Jackson Illinois Academic Enrichment and Leadership Program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $18,046 to $23,426 (resident); $38,398 to $46,498 (non-resident)
• Financial aid: Students can apply for scholarships, grants, student jobs, and loans to reduce tuition and fees.
• Accreditation: HLC

How We Chose These Institutions

Our team thoroughly vetted the schools in this ranking list to ensure each meets the following criteria for providing a high-quality academic experience:

• Recognition in the FirstGen Forward Network Directory: Each school in this list has been recognized by FirstGen Forward as a network member, leader, or champion.
• Accreditation: These colleges are accredited by nationally recognized organizations, such as the SACSCOC or the HLC.
• Affordability: Schools in this list offer affordable tuition and help reduce costs with financial aid.
• First-generation student success and resources: Each school helps first-gen students succeed by providing tutoring, mentorship, advising, and other support services and resources.

Resources for First Generation Students

Hundreds of schools offer resources and programs for first-generation college students. While some are specific to each college, others are available nationwide, including:

• TRIO: Federal TRIO Programs provide funding and resources for students from disadvantaged backgrounds (including first-gen students).
• First Generations Foundation: This organization encourages first-gen students to pursue rigorous college experiences, and provides access to resources for learners and their families.
• McNair Scholars Program: This TRIO program offers funding and resources to prepare undergrads for doctoral study through research and other activities.
• I'm First!: I'm First!, an initiative of UStrive, provides inspiration, information, and support for students who lack a family history of higher education.
• Rise First: This online platform consolidates programs and resources nationwide to help first-generation, low-income (FGLI) students enhance their college experience.

FAQs About the Best Colleges for First-Generation Students

Are you interested in pursuing a college degree? Review the FAQs below to learn more about the best colleges for first-gen learners.

Are There Scholarships Specifically for First-Generation Students?

Yes, you can find scholarships for first-generation students. For instance, Florida International University offers the First Generation Scholarship Program, which provides financial support to students who are the first in their families to attend college. Nevada State University's First & Fierce Scholarship, created for first-gen students, offers $2,000 to cover school costs.

But don't stop your search at first-gen scholarships. To save even more, consider applying to schools offering free tuition for low-income students.

Can I Get Extra Academic Help as a First-Gen Student?

While most schools offer coaching, tutoring, peer mentoring, and other academic help for all students, it's possible to find services specifically for first-generation students. Look for schools within the FirstGen Forward network that offer leadership development, support teams, and student organizations to help first-gen students excel.

Are First-Generation Students Eligible for Federal Financial Aid?

Learners who are the first in their families to attend college or earn a college degree have the same financial aid eligibility as other students. Depending on their family's income, some first-gen students could even qualify for the highest dollar amounts offered by grants like Pell and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG).

Learn More: Affordable Colleges That Accept FAFSA

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