First-Generation College Student Financial Aid: Results From A National Financial Aid Jargon Survey

Abstract:This study assessed prospective first-generation college students' knowledge of federal student aid. The research team surveyed 752 prospective first-generation college students to assess what financial aid jargon terms were unfamiliar. Students often reported FAFSA, master promissory note, entrance counseling, data retrieval tool, and non-filer's statement as unfamiliar. Controlling for demographics, non-binary conforming first-generation college students reported financial aid jargon terms at a higher rate than peers (p=0.05, t=2.42). Implications for student affairs and financial aid praxis are addressed.