The Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA, Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, and The Suder Foundation, recognizes Northern Arizona University as a First-Gen Forward Advisory Institution.

First-generation Programs

Succeed as a first-generation student at NAU

What is a first-generation student?

Numerous NAU students on the Flagstaff campus identify as first-generation, meaning neither of their parents or guardians earned a bachelor’s degree. First‐generation students are trailblazers, forging new paths for themselves and their families. Northern Arizona University is a campus of excellence for first‐generation students, and we provide support systems and resources for our first-generation community.

Explore programs for first-generation students

First-generation mentoring The Office of First-Generation Programs assists students in accessing important resources, making connections, and building community through one-on-one mentoring. Connect with a mentor today!

A four-year commitment, First Scholars engages students in academic and social programming while supporting students financially with a $2,000 tuition scholarship.

STAR Peer Advisors

Successful Transition and Academic Readiness (STAR) ensures new first-year students who are Arizona residents a successful transition from high school into college through a 4-week summer bridge program.

SSS Student Graduate

TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) is a federally funded program designed to provide a variety of services, tools, and resources to assist students along their own unique educational path.

Tri-Alpha recognizes the academic achievements and professional accomplishments of first-generation college students, graduates, and professionals.