First-generation students face unique barriers to applying for college and often miss out on early decision deadlines for admission.
A 2021 Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP) report found college “early decision” deadlines often give an advantage to wealthier students with more resources. That report noted that historically underserved students, including first-generation students, often aren’t aware of those deadlines or don’t have the resources to decide on college early in their senior year.
“The research makes clear that early decision deadlines are at odds with equitably enrolling students from low-income backgrounds, first-generation students, and students of color,” the report reads. “Applying early decision can boost a student’s likelihood of being admitted to an institution — particularly a selective institution — but it is difficult for underserved students to take advantage of this benefit.”
Now, one college is taking a unique approach to ensure that first-generation students have access to early admissions: Wake Forest University is creating an early action option specifically for first-generation students that will let them know of their admission decision by Jan. 15 so that prospective students will still have time to consider other admission offers and financial aid options before making their final plans for college.
Read the full article at Best Colleges.
