Our Insights

Our Insights

Find the latest first-generation student data and original research. 

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Evidence-based and Data-driven

Dedicated first-generation research allows for evidence-based decision-making that is critical to student success. This section highlights both foundational research and recent scholarship that informs understanding of the student experience, institutional approaches to programming, and identification of supports and barriers for first-generation students.

FirstGen Statistics

 

24 %

First-generation students graduate at a rate of 24% versus 59% for continuing-generation students.

54 %

There are 8.2 million first-generation undergraduate students; 54% of all undergrads in the U.S.

72 %

By 2031, 72% of jobs in the U.S. will require postsecondary education or training.

Research & Publications

Remain up to date with the latest research, evidence-based practices.

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Decoding the Academy

Examine the complex layers and intersecting dimensions of the experiences of first-gen students in graduate school.

Advocacy Wide

National Data Fact Sheets

National fact sheets on first-gen college students and graduates.

Catalystfirst wide

National Landscape Reports

Reports cover national landscape findings and offer insights and recommendations.

Journal of First-generation Student Success

The Journal seeks to publish practice articles grounded in research and literature and, reciprocally, research articles that speak to practice.

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NOW AVAILABLE

Latest Issue

The latest Journal of First-generation Student Success issue is now available online. 

Edition Cost:
Individuals: $141 (print and online) *Local tax will be added as applicable

Institutions: $383 (online); $548 (print & online) *Local tax will be added as applicable

*Access to JFGSS is a NASPA member benefit.

National Data Fact Sheets

Review the latest national data and compare it with your institution's data.

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2024 Findings

These fact sheets compare the 2019 and 2021 findings to experiences during the COVID-19 Pandemic and employment and post-completion data.

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2021 Findings

These fact sheets provide national statistics about first-generation college graduates’ transition to graduate school and employment in the year after earning a bachelor’s degree.

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2019 Findings

These fact sheets provide national statistics about the background characteristics, postsecondary experiences, and outcomes of first-generation and continuing-generation college students in the United States.

Want a first-gen data expert to speak at your next meeting or event?

CatalystFIRST is the leading resource for those seeking keynote speakers, presenters, and facilitators for higher education engagements and conferences across the nation and through virtual platforms.