National Data Fact Sheets on First-Generation Students

The Pell Institute is proud to announce the release of a new set of fact sheets that illuminate critical insights into the experiences and outcomes of first-generation, low-income students, and students with disabilities. These fact sheets provide comprehensive national statistics and analysis, offering a detailed look at the unique challenges and achievements of these student populations across the United States.

Fact Sheet 1

Who are Potential First-Generation (FG) Students?

In 2011, 26% of potential FG students’ families were in poverty, with a median household income of $48,567. The Pell Institute is excited to unveil the first in a series of fact sheets illustrating who potential first-generation students are and the challenges they face in accessing and attaining post-secondary education. This initial fact sheet focuses on poverty, healthcare, race/ethnicity, geographic area, and other demographic and personal aspects of potential first-generation college students.

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Fact Sheet 2

Potential First-Generation (FG) College Students’ School Days

This fact sheet studies academics and time use for potential first-generation students (neither parent has a bachelor’s degree). Data points explore grades, sports, time with electronics, and other important daily decisions that students make.

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Fact Sheet 3

Pathways to College for Potential First-Generation Students

Parental college attainment impacts the thoughts and feelings of potential first-generation college students. Access the Pell Institute’s third National Data Fact Sheet on First-Generation Students, which showcases the important decisions students face when considering where to attend and how to pay for their college education.

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Fact Sheet 4

Undergraduate First-Generation (FG) Students

The fourth Pell fact sheet in the National First-Generation Fact Sheet series explores the different demographics, finances, and academics of first-generation undergraduate students during their years in college. Did you know that in 2021, 55 percent of undergraduate students were first-generation college students?

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Fact Sheet 5

Bachelor’s and Beyond

The fifth and final Pell fact sheet in the National First-Generation Fact Sheet series examines life after earning a bachelor’s degree for students who were first-generation to college (neither parent has a bachelor’s degree). Data assesses employment, finances, family status, and other important aspects of life after college.

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