#firstgencollege

Applying to college for the first time can be confusing for anyone. But if you’re the first person in your family to go to college, it often comes with extra pressure and questions. You might not know who to ask for help or even what questions to ask. That’s okay. You’re not alone—and there are ways to get through the process without feeling lost.

This guide is here to break things down in a way that makes sense. No fancy jargon. No unrealistic advice. Just the basics you need to feel more confident about applying.

What Does “First-Generation” Actually Mean?

Being a first-generation college student usually means your parents or guardians didn’t graduate from a four-year college or university. Maybe they attended for a little while but didn’t finish. Or maybe no one in your family has ever gone.

Whatever the case, applying as a first-gen student isn’t a disadvantage. In fact, many colleges actively support and seek out students like you. They know it often takes extra drive and resilience to reach this point—and that matters.

Start with Research, But Keep It Simple

The first thing to do is figure out which colleges might be a good fit. But don’t feel like you need to understand everything at once. Look for schools that:

Offer the major or program you're interested in

Have strong support systems for first-gen or low-income students

Fit your financial situation (we’ll talk about this more in a bit)

Feel comfortable to you—academically, socially, and geographically

You don’t need to make the “perfect” choice right away. It’s more about making informed decisions based on what matters most to you.

Learn About the Application Basics

Here are the main pieces of a college application:

Application form (through Common App or the college’s own system)

Transcripts (from your high school)

Standardized test scores, if the school requires them (SAT or ACT)

Essays or personal statements

Letters of recommendation (usually from teachers or school counselors)

Activities list or resume

If you’re not sure how to start, your high school counselor can help. You can also check the admissions page of each college website—they usually list everything you need in one place.

Your Story Matters in a Big Way

Many colleges ask for a personal essay. This is your chance to talk about your background, what’s important to you, and what you hope to do in the future.

As a first-gen student, don’t feel like you need to hide your experiences. Your story is valuable. You can write about how you’ve handled challenges, what you’ve learned from your family, or how your education could create change—not just for you, but for those around you.

You don’t have to sound overly formal. Just be honest and clear.

Money: Let’s Talk About It

Paying for college is one of the biggest concerns for first-gen students. And yes, it can be complicated—but there’s help.

What You Should Know:

FAFSA: This is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Fill it out as soon as it opens (usually in the fall). It helps colleges figure out how much financial help you qualify for.

Grants and Scholarships: These don’t have to be paid back. Some come from the government, others from colleges, and others from private groups.

Work-Study Programs: Many colleges offer part-time jobs on campus to help students earn money while studying.

First-Gen Support Programs: Some schools offer specific scholarships or programs just for first-generation students. Look into them!

If you're confused by financial aid forms, you’re definitely not the only one. Ask your school counselor or a local college access center. There are also community-based organizations that can walk you through it.

Ask for Help (Even If It Feels Uncomfortable)

A lot of first-gen students feel like they have to figure everything out on their own. But you really don’t. Most people who apply to college have someone helping them—parents, teachers, advisors, older siblings.

If that’s not the case for you, reach out to:

High school counselors

Teachers you trust

Local college access organizations

Online forums or college websites

Asking questions doesn't make you weak. It means you're learning—and that's exactly what college is about.

What to Expect After You Apply

Once you’ve submitted your applications, you’ll usually wait a few weeks to a few months for decisions. If you get accepted, read everything carefully—especially the financial aid details. Some schools might offer more support than others.

And if you’re waitlisted or rejected, it’s not the end. Many students get into great schools after transferring, taking a gap year, or applying again.

Last Thoughts

Being a first-generation college student means you’re doing something big, possibly something no one else in your family has done before. That’s brave. It can feel like a lot sometimes, but you’ve already shown you’re capable of taking important steps for your future.

“Growing up in the circumstances we grew up in, there was no reason to believe that we could ever really succeed, but MHS gave us the resources to actualize our dreams and our ambitions.” 

Thank you so much! She is really such a sweetie, and I'm glad she got the goal. She seriously earned it.