First-generation students defined
You are considered to be a first-generation student or “first-gen” if:
- You are the first in your family to attend college.
- You will become the first to graduate with a bachelor’s degree.
- Your parents did not pursue or complete a bachelor’s degree.
- Your parents earned an associate’s degree only.
- Your parents completed their post-secondary education outside of the United States.
Limited-income students defined
The state of Michigan defines households with limited income as those “whose adjusted household income is more than 50%, but not more than 60%, of the area median income” (Michigan Legislature, 2004).
Definitions
- First-generation students are typically from families whose parents, guardians, and/or other custodial family members have not earned a four-year college degree.
- Limited-income students are those with little to no family contribution or limited financial means. These students often receive need-based federal Pell grant assistance.
- First-generation graduates are faculty or staff that attended and graduated from college as a first-generation and/or limited-income student.
- First-gen, limited-income students are first-generation, limited-income, or both.
- First-generation allies are faculty, staff, or alumni who are not first-generation, but are dedicated to supporting the success of first-gen students.
