IDENTIFYING FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS: DEFINITIONS, DATA, AND DATA USE

As institutions of higher education strive to equitably serve a growing and increasingly visible population of first-generation college students, the findings of this updated landscape analysis underscore both progress and persistent challenges. Through comprehensive data collection and stakeholder engagement, this series of research briefs provides a critical, nuanced view of the current state of first-generation student support. It is clear that while there is no singular approach to success, intentional, data-informed, and equity-driven strategies are essential. By uplifting the voices of practitioners and students alike, this work offers a roadmap for institutions committed to not only understanding but also transforming the postsecondary experience for first-generation students—ensuring they have the support needed to thrive in college, career, and life.

The second installment in our national landscape analysis offers new insight into how U.S. colleges and universities define, identify, and use data on FirstGen students.