Common Data Set · Section C7

Which colleges consider first-generation status in admissions?

Of the 143 colleges with Common Data Set filings in Trajecta's dataset, 4 rate first-generation status very important in their admissions decisions, 21 rate it important, 108 considered, and 10 say it is not considered — as self-reported in each school's CDS section C7 ("First generation").

What "First generation" means

First-generation status generally means neither parent completed a four-year college degree (definitions vary slightly by school). Colleges that consider it treat it as positive context: your achievements are read against the resources you had, and first-gen status can strengthen an application. It is never counted against an applicant.

Very Important4 colleges, sorted by Trajecta rank

Considered108 colleges, sorted by Trajecta rank

Show 96 more colleges

Not Considered10 colleges, sorted by Trajecta rank

First-generation status: frequently asked questions

Who counts as a first-generation college student?

Most commonly, a student whose parents did not complete a bachelor’s degree — though definitions vary, and some schools count you as first-gen even if a parent attended some college without finishing. Check each college’s own definition; when in doubt, answer the application’s specific question honestly.

Does being first-generation help college admissions?

At colleges that consider it, yes — it is context that works in your favor. Admissions readers weigh what you accomplished against the guidance and resources available to you, and many schools actively recruit first-generation students. It is informational at worst, never a negative.