Skip Navigation

First Generation

First Gen student standing amongst graduates before commencement ceremony.

First Generation


One of the University of Oklahoma’s many objectives is to ensure prospective students with the belief that a college degree is attainable. First-generation students – those whose parents/guardians did not finish a four-year college degree – may often believe that a future promise of education is not afforded to them due to a lack of familial experience. OU has been recognized as one of the more successful higher-education institutes in attracting first-generation students. Recent freshman classes have seen a 25% share of its class be the first in their families to attend college.

25.4%

of the freshman class are
first-generation college students

27.1%

of OU students are
first-generation college students

*This includes undergraduate, graduate, and professional students on the Norman campus.

FirstGen Forward Network Member logo.

The University of Oklahoma was recently selected for the Network Member phase of the FirstGen Forward Network.

The University of Oklahoma has been recognized among 250+ higher-education institutions as a member of the FirstGen Network. OU was chosen based on our commitment to improving the college journey and advancing the futures and careers of our first-generation student population.

Resources & Support

Campus Resources

Immerse yourself within campus resources designed to help transition first-generation students to college life with tutoring, writing courses, advising, coaching, wellness and involvement programs.

Financial Aid

Take advantage of university tools to navigate financial aid questions and concerns. Explore money coaching advice and other college funding opportunities.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available in a variety of formats. Discover what scholarship opportunities apply to your life journey to help navigate through your college experience.

Student Organizations

Get involved within the campus community via student organizations. No matter your community or heritage, you can find a home at the University of Oklahoma.

Faculty & Staff Support

Finding connections on a college campus is critical to any student’s academic success. First-gen students’ challenges can be answered by connecting with faculty and staff who faced a similar experience during their academic careers. Advocates within the OU family offer help for first-gen students.

Family Support

Opportunities exist to help bridge the student with their family support system. Learn about Parent Programs and Family Weekend events to introduce your family to your new home.

Prospective Students

Find resources that will help you in your journey to Norman from the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.

Events and Involvement Opportunities

The fall semester is filled with campus community events, academic paths and volunteer/leadership opportunities designed to maximize your college experience. Every month holds a different memory to be made and opportunity to be had.



September

11

Career Fair

Time: 12 PM to 5 PM 
Location: Lloyd Noble Center

More college and major-specific Career Fair opportunities available here.


September

24

Neighborhood Table

Time: 11 AM to 2 PM
Location: South Oval (Rain Location: Armory)


November

6

OU’s First-Generation Day Celebration

Time: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Location: Governor's Room


November

8

National First-Generation Day

Celebrate with us and share your First Generation story on social media.