Top Accredited Affordable Online Colleges for First-Generation Students

Why Accreditation Matters for First-Generation Students

In this article, we will explore the five leading accredited affordable online colleges for first-generation students. We’ve focused not only on affordability but also on the following:

• Quality of education
• Support services
• Flexibility

First-generation students can be easily misled, as they often lack the same resources and support as their counterparts. They might be tempted by schools that promise a quick and affordable route to success but aren’t properly accredited. This leads to a series of challenges, including wasted time, financial strain, and diminished career prospects.

Accreditation is an important guide in the confusing world of college. It shows that a school meets certain quality standards. Knowing what accreditation means for first-generation students is key to having a good school experience and achieving success later on. We want to help you find affordable online colleges for first-generation students. Whether you’re looking for degree programs, online resources, or community support, this list will provide a solid starting point for your college journey.

Related Articles:

• Affordable Online Colleges for First-Generation Students: Save on Tuition & Boost Success
• Online College Application FAQs for First-Generation Students
• Overcoming Common Application Challenges Faced by First-Generation Online Students
• Tips for First-Generation Students Applying to Affordable Online Colleges
• Top Online Colleges with Exceptional Support Programs for First-Generation Students

What Makes a College Affordable and Accredited?

Does the college have to be prestigious to be considered one of the best online colleges for first-generation students? No, it doesn’t! Sure, getting a degree from a top college sounds great, but what really counts is the quality of education and the support you get.

When choosing the best college for you, a first-generation student, you must also consider other significant factors.:

Accreditation

Accreditation is a defining benchmark in the educational landscape. It serves as a crucial indicator of quality and reliability. There are two primary types of accreditation in the US:

1. Regional Accreditation. This is the golden standard for educational institutions. It is typically granted to colleges and universities with a high level of academic rigor.
2. National Accreditation. It is usually awarded to specific types of institutions, such as vocational schools and trade colleges.

There is also program-specific accreditation. This type of accreditation is focused on particular fields, such as engineering, nursing, or business. Graduating from a program with a specialized accreditation can improve job prospects and show a dedication to quality in their field.

Tuition

Unaccredited colleges can easily offer low tuition costs since they don’t spend money enhancing their programs, facilities, or faculty qualifications. On the other hand, accredited online degree programs may be more expensive—but not all. Some schools, especially public institutions, offer lower tuition rates than private ones.

According to the Education Data Initiative, here’s what you can expect for tuition at online colleges:

• Private Colleges: $62,756
• Public Colleges: $40,926

Financial Aid

Another benefit of attending an accredited online college is financial aid availability. Accredited institutions can access federal and state financial aid that lowers tuition costs. This aid includes grants, scholarships, and low-interest loans. Additionally, many accredited colleges offer scholarships and financial assistance programs based on merit or need.

Important Advice: Always balance accreditation and affordability. Unaccredited schools may have lower tuition but won’t offer much value for your return on investment (ROI). Accredited schools might cost more but can lead to better job opportunities and salaries.

Top Accredited Affordable Online Colleges for First-Generation Students

Florida International University

Accreditation: SACSCOC

Average Undergraduate Tuition: $8,722

First-Gen Support Services Programs:

• Educational Talent Search
• Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program
• Student Support Services
• Upward Bound
• Upward Bound Math-Science

First-generation students are a key part of what makes FIU a good school. Did you know that one in five FIU undergraduates are first-generation students? With its dedication to providing valuable education experiences, FIU has been named a First Forward institution since 2017.

First-gen students can choose from over 100 affordable online degree programs. Additionally, they will receive specialized support that boosts their success in their fields. These include academic advising, tutoring, and tailored financial aid guidance.

“Our first-generation Panthers work really hard, and we’re committed to helping them succeed while they’re at FIU and after they graduate,” said Phillip Lloyd Hamilton, FIU’s assistant VP for Student Equity and Support.

Georgia Institute of Technology

Accreditation: SACSCOC

Average Undergraduate Tuition: $12,058

First-Gen Support Services Programs:

• First-Gen Jackets Peer Mentoring Program
• First-Generation College Celebration Week
• First-Generation College Institute (FGCI)
• GT F1RST iGniTe Track

If you’re looking for affordable, accredited online colleges for STEM and business, check out Georgia Tech. With a 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, students get personalized support from their instructors.

Georgia Tech’s vast support for first-generation college students is among the best in the nation. The programs mentioned above are specifically designed to create a strong community for these students. For example, Georgia Tech’s FGCI summer program helps first-generation and low-income students in Grades 8-12. It makes the move from high school to college easier by building community, connecting students to resources, and encouraging STEM activities.

Oklahoma State University

Accreditation: HLC

Average Undergraduate Tuition: $13,920

First-Gen Support Services Programs:

• F1RST2GO
• Financial Aid Assistance
• 1890 Scholarship Competition

Did you know that almost 25% of OSU’s students are first-generation? OSU has received multiple awards for its support services and low-cost online education for first-generation students. Its latest achievement was the 2022 First-Gen Forward designation.

In addition to being a key member of First Gen Forward, OSU also offers an F1RST2GO program. This program pairs students with peer mentors for support and guidance, and it has helped many first-generation students achieve success.

Brinlee, an OSU first-gen student, said, “OSU provided the support I needed. Freshmen must have a good experience, as your first year can really impact your future. The Office of First Year Success staff and everyone at OSU are so welcoming. We truly care about our students and want to create an environment that helps them succeed in college.”

University at Buffalo

Accreditation: MSCHE

Average Undergraduate Tuition: $4,240

First-Gen Support Services Programs:

• First-Gen Summer Bridge Program
• First-Generation Initiative
• Financial Resources
• Peer Mentoring
• Proud to Be First

UB is one of the top online colleges with financial aid for first-generation students. 18% of UB’s students are first-generation, and they receive a range of support services and financial assistance to help them succeed.

One of its notable programs is Proud to Be First, which helps students and their families navigate campus resources and events. It also includes a peer mentoring program that connects first-generation students with experienced peers and offers networking opportunities with faculty and staff.

The University of Alabama

Accreditation: SACSCOC

Average Undergraduate Tuition: $11,380

First-Gen Support Services Program:

• Legacy Scholars

The University of Alabama, especially its Culverhouse College of Business, is a popular go-to choice for first-generation students. The Legacy Scholarship is one of the biggest programs for first-generation students in the US. It offers

• Tuition help for first-generation college students up to five $500 scholarships
• Monthly meetings
• One-on-one peer and faculty mentorship
• Social events

Beyond the Legacy Scholarship, first-gen students also have their own designated space on campus. Online students are also welcome to visit the third floor of Hewson Hall, the center space for all first-gen students. UAB received its First-gen Forward designation in 2022.

Additional Support Resources for First-Generation Students at Online Colleges

Applying to college and figuring out the right financial aid can be challenging for any student, but first-generation college students often face extra challenges. If you’re the first in your family to go to college, it can feel overwhelming—especially without older siblings or parents who can guide you. Many first-gen students also have dependents or come from low-income families, which can add to the pressure.

You’re not alone in this! According to research by the Center for First-Generation Student Success, about half of college students are first-generation. Fortunately, some organizations provide resources to help you overcome these challenges.

Best guides for first-generation students:

• American Needs You. Programs aimed at helping first-generation students succeed in school and careers.
• CareerSpring. Offers career tools, networking, and job placement resources for first-generation and lower-income students.
• Center for First-Generation Student Success. Provides programs and research to improve college success for first-generation students. It can also help you locate more online colleges with scholarships for first-generation students.
• Federal Student Aid. The main source for information on federal financial aid, loans, and grants.
• I’m First! A resource for first-gen students, offering support, inspiration, and helpful information.

On-campus resources for first-generation students:

• Academic Resource Center. Offers tutoring, writing help, mentorship, and advice for transfers. Some support may be available online.
• Career Services. Helps students find jobs and internships, offering mock interviews, resume help, and networking opportunities.
• Counseling Services. Provides support for personal and mental health challenges, with trained professionals available.
• DEI Programs. Focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion to recruit and support students from different backgrounds.
• Disability Resource Center. Assists students with disabilities to get accommodations and ensures they are treated fairly.
• Financial Aid Office. Guides students through financial aid options and processes, which is especially important for low-income and first-generation students.
• New Student Orientation. Helps new students, especially first-gen ones, adjust to college life during their first campus visit.
• Student Navigation Office. Supports new and non-traditional students in transitioning to college life with extra guidance.
• Student Organizations. Provides social and community opportunities, helping students connect and support each other, especially for minorities and first-generation students.

How to Choose the Right Accredited Online College

There are several factors you need to consider when choosing an online college. Although the cost is a major concern, you should never overlook other factors like accreditation, financial aid, and support services. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to narrow down accredited affordable online colleges:

Accreditation

College accreditation’s importance can never be overstated. It can make or break your future. Always look for online colleges that have regional accreditation. While national accreditation can be okay, regional accreditation often makes it easier to transfer credits if you want to pursue an advanced degree later on.

Financial Aid

When choosing the best affordable accredited online colleges, always compare tuition and financial aid. Financial aid is what really makes online degree programs affordable.

When it comes to financial aid, private colleges, especially the big and most reputable ones, usually offer better assistance. This is because they often have more resources and endowments, allowing them to give generous scholarships and grants to students. But then again, this is on a case-by-case basis.

When hunting for financial aid, we advise you to complete your FAFSA application early. The FAFSA opens the door to numerous forms of financial aid, namely scholarships, grants, and loans. Documents you need to gather include tax information and income records.

You can also apply for private scholarships. Some of the most reliable search engines include:

• Fastweb
• Scholarships.com
• Cappex
• College Board Scholarship Search
• Niche

Support Services

College is challenging for everyone, especially for students who don’t have the same support network as their peers. Many colleges offer special programs for first-generation students with mentorship, tutoring, and workshops. These resources help with time management, study skills, and career planning.

Overall Cost

Tuition isn’t the only cost of college. Hidden fees can add up quickly and become a big expense. When assessing the overall cost, it is important to factor in things like textbooks, supplies, lab fees, and technology costs.

Always check with your college’s financial aid office to get a clearer picture of all potential expenses. Being prepared can help you manage your finances better and avoid any surprises down the road.

Conclusion: Achieving Success as a First-Generation Student

Pursuing high-quality online degree programs doesn’t have to be expensive—you don’t need to bury yourself in debt! Thanks to technological advancements and enhanced university initiatives, you can easily become the first in your family to earn a degree. It just takes a few clicks and thorough research to pinpoint the best accredited, affordable online degree programs for your needs.