What First-Generation Students Should Know

The basics no one always explains

College can feel unfamiliar when you’re the first in your family to navigate it. This guide explains how college systems work, what to expect academically, and how to advocate for yourself — so you can move forward with confidence.

Who this guide is for

This guide is for first-generation college students — students whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college degree.

If you’re figuring out college without built-in guidance, this guide helps you understand the basics, avoid common pitfalls, and use available support effectively.

How this guide works

College has its own systems, language, and expectations and many students are never formally taught how they work.

This guide breaks down:

• How college is structured
• What academic success really looks like
• Where to get help — and how to ask for it

You don’t need to know everything now. You just need to know where to look.

How college systems actually work

Colleges operate differently from high school.

Key things to know:

• Advisors help, but you are responsible for decisions
• Requirements are often spread across multiple departments
• Deadlines, policies, and options aren’t always explained upfront

Learning how systems work early helps you avoid confusion later.

What to expect academically

College academics are different, but manageable with the right expectations.

Common differences include:

• Fewer assignments, but higher expectations
• More independent learning
• Professors expecting you to seek help proactively

Struggling at first doesn’t mean you don’t belong. It means you’re learning a new system.

Understanding support resources

Most colleges offer support services, but they’re not always automatic.

You may have access to:

• Academic advising
• Tutoring and writing centers
• First-generation or student success programs
• Mental health and wellness services

Knowing these exist and using them early.

How to advocate for yourself

Self-advocacy is a key college skill.

That includes:

• Asking questions when something isn’t clear
• Following up on emails and requests
• Seeking clarification on requirements or policies
• Requesting help before a small issue becomes a big one

Advocating for yourself isn’t being difficult — it’s being prepared.

Navigating cost and financial aid

College costs can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re learning the system at the same time.

Helpful steps include:

• Understanding how financial aid works year to year
• Knowing the difference between grants, loans, and scholarships
• Asking financial aid offices to explain your options

→ Explore financial aid and scholarships

Choosing a path that keeps options open

You don’t need a final plan on day one.

Many first-generation students benefit from:

• Starting with broader degree paths
• Attending schools with strong advising and flexibility
• Choosing transfer-friendly or credit-efficient options

Keeping options open early can reduce stress and cost later.

→ Explore degree paths

How Tuition Covered supports first-generation students

Tuition Covered is built to make college systems easier to understand.

You can:

• Explore colleges that support first-generation students
• Understand degrees and majors before committing
• Find scholarships aligned with your background
• Compare long-term value using RoEDU™

→ Explore colleges

→ Compare long-term value with RoEDU

Not sure where to start?

If college feels overwhelming, that’s normal.

Start with:

• Understanding how college works
• Asking questions early
• Choosing flexible options
• Using available support

→ Explore resources for first-generation students

Frequently asked questions

What does “first-generation college student” mean?

It typically refers to students whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college degree.

Is college harder for first-generation students?

College isn’t harder, but systems may feel unfamiliar. Learning how they work helps level the field.

Are there scholarships for first-generation students?

Yes. Many scholarships and programs are designed specifically to support first-generation students.

How can I get help if I don’t know what to ask?

Start by asking advisors or support offices where to begin — it’s a common and valid question.