We are First Gen Logo

 

First-Gen at FIU

A student is first generation if neither of the student’s parents earned a college degree at the baccalaureate level or higher or, in the case of any individual who regularly resided with and received support from only one parent, if that parent did not earn a baccalaureate degree.

First-generation students are part of the foundation on which we built our University. FIU connects first-generation students to a quality education and high-impact practices that enable them to achieve academic success at all levels.

Ensuring first-generation student success is woven into every FIU initiative, service and program and it is intrinsic to our identity. Empowering first-generation students is not the role, vision or mission of one unit but it is the charge of the FIU community.

  • 1 in 3

    FIU undergraduates are first-gen students

  • 91.8%

    First-to-second year retention rate among first-gen students

  • Top 20

    FIU's ranking in US News & World Report for Social Mobility

First-Gen Forward Network Leader Logo

The Center for First-Generation Student Success launched in June 2017 with the mission of being the premier source of evidence-based practices, professional development, and knowledge creation for the higher education community to advance the success of first-generation students. In continuing this mission, the Center launched the First-Gen Forward Network, which offers a national model for scaling holistic first-generation student success by engaging and empowering institutions.

First Gen at FIU's designation as a First-Gen Forward Network Leader signals a continued, institution-wide commitment to these students' success.

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2024 First-Generation College Celebration

November 8 marks the annual National First-Generation College Celebration, honoring the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Apply for First-Gen Scholarships

Explore and apply for scholarships available to first-generation students at FIU by visiting the FIU Academic Works website.

First-Gen Focus: YouTube Podcast

Panthers share their experiences as first-generation college students in this new monthly YouTube podcast series. Meet our first guest, alumna Nicole Martinez '21, MA '23, who now works for the Center for Academic Success as an academic success coach after earning two degrees from FIU. 

Support our First-Gen Students

By supporting our students, you will become a donor and a visionary. Join us in making FIU a beacon of hope committed to propelling our deserving first-generation students to their next horizon.