What qualifys as a First Generation college student?

Applying to College
1

Both my parents received a 4 year college education but in a third world country. They’re just as educated but in a completely different language. They came to America as immigrants and didn’t understand English and when I explained this to my counselor she said I’m still considered a first generation student. I’m not entirely sure because I’ve heard a different answer from different places. But would I still be considered a first gen college student because I’m the first in my family educated in America?

2

Your counselor is wrong. If one parent went to college in any country, you are not first gen. FYI, there is no box that asks if you are first gen; you are asked for your parent(s)’ educational background, and colleges will interpret that as they please.

3

@skieurope what about one parent who attended but never received a degree, would that be first gen? And when asked educational background does she even have to mention that or can she just put “high school diploma”?

4

Depends on the college

One of the options is “Some high school/university.” As with everything else on the application, the question should be answered truthfully, or consequences may result.

Bottom line, first-generation is really only going to be considered in conjunction with other factors (e.g. low socioeconomic status, underperforming schools, etc.) in order to see if the applicant had to overcome significant difficulties. Additionally, many people without college degrees have done quite well for themselves. So if your parent did not go to college, but your Zip Code is 90210, expect that you will receive no advantage by being first gen.

5

@skieurope well I live I don’t live in an upscale neighborhood (bronx) and I am applying to georgetown which says first generation in very important and over 50% of accepted students are first gen

6

You will just fill out the facts and they will decide how they want to classify you. Don’t fret too much over it.

7

That seems mighty high. Are you sure? This site (http://www.georgetown.edu/news/admissions-acceptance-story-2014/index.html) says of 2014’s admitted freshmen: “Of particular note is the number of first-generation college students in the admitted class, which, like last year, is 12 percent.”