Applying to college this year? Get comprehensive one-on-one college essay and application coaching. Schedule a free consultation.

Welcome to the FG/LI* Resource Center

*First-Generation and/or Low-Income

This resource center was built to try to clarify and simplify the college application process for any student feeling a bit confused or unsure concerning how to approach it.

Not sure where to start? Here are the top resources we think you should look at to build your foundation.

Step 1: Explore Your Options

Step 2: Start Your Application

Step 3: Complete School-Specific Requirements

PRO TIP

If you’re applying to highly-selective colleges (schools with very low acceptance rates), you’ll want to review everything above.

Once you’ve got the basics down, check out the guides below to answer more specific questions we often hear from our FG/LI students.

How to Research Colleges Without Visiting Campus

How to Write the Questbridge Essay + Examples

Should I Come Out As Undocumented in My Personal Statement?

Is It “Okay” to Talk About Race in Your College Application and Essays—And If So, How Should You Do It?

How to Understand Your Financial Aid Award Letter

To and Through Guide

Looking for TL;DR versions?

Check out the CEG Quick Guides

Are there other free resources for students like me?

Explore Rise First’s FG/LI Resource Directory

And if that still doesn’t answer all of your questions, chances are we have a guide on whatever it is you’re looking for.

Here’s everything else we think you might need to navigate the college application process successfully.

You’ve got this.

If you’re looking for one-on-one help with your college applications, check out our Matchlighters Scholars Program.

At CEG, we believe in equal opportunity and access to higher education. The Matchlighters Program pairs highly motivated students from low-income households with experienced college counselors. It’s totally free and applying couldn’t be easier.