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,"…

Although adult learners (aged 25-34) have comprised over 33% of all enrolled students in US institutions of higher education, researchers have consistently found adult learners are under-supported by federal and institutional financial aid, leading these students to experience high dropout rates and low graduation rates. To better understand what…