First Generation College Students

General Information:

FIE is committed to supporting all our students and cultivating an inclusive environment. We are conscious of the historic social and economic inequalities impacting first-generation/first in family students and seek to support them as best we can. FIE, in accordance with its mission, is committed to a comprehensive policy of equal opportunities and as such, our programs are tailored to give access to the widest possible student representation. Please reach out to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions or concerns. 

In the UK, almost two thirds of undergraduate students are first-generation – in the US, around 42%. Becoming a first-generation student is an exciting journey and an incredible accomplishment, but there may be additional considerations you need support with. The Centre for First-Generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA and The Suder Foundation, provides an online resource designed to support first generation students. Explore the resources throughout the site to better understand the first-generation student experience, engage with research and data, identify support strategies, and explore why advancing first-generation student success is a desirable outcome. For a UK perspective, UCAS (University and College Admission Service) has great advice on items to consider as a first-generation student.

Our top tips:

• Get to know your programme from those who came before you! Check out our FIE Student Blog for stories from our alumni, check in with your home campus study abroad office to meet with alumni who have done it before, or contact the FIE Team for full details on our programmes.
• Think about your budget before you leave! Check out this GoOverseas blog for tips on considering your budget for studying abroad. MUST USE Numbeo to see cost of living in your host city but in your own currency!
• You may also want to reach read this GoOverseas blog about studying abroad as a First Gen Student 

London Resources 

Mental Health Support at FIE London

Dublin Resources 

Mental Health Support at FIE Dublin

Spain Resources 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our onsite team.

If you have questions or suggestions, please contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.