Skip to main content

First-Generation, Lower-Income, and Undocumented/DACA Students

What is FGLI?

Pronounced "fig-lee," the acronym FGLI refers to first-generation and/or lower-income students.

First-generation college students who are first in their families to graduate from a four-year college or university. At Northwestern, we celebrate the strengths, assets, and leadership that our first-generation students, faculty, and staff bring to campus.

Lower-income students are usually (but not always) eligible for Pell Grants. At Northwestern, lower-income status is determined by financial aid and may not mirror how income is measured in the United States broadly.

Undocumented/DACA students living in the US without US citizenship or Permanent Residency and those in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. DACA is a two-year program that allows for work authorization with a Social Security number, license, and state ID. DACA eligibility is not open to all undocumented students.

SES supports FGLI and undocumented/DACA students’ transition to Northwestern and Beyond

Student Enrichment Services (SES) is an office dedicated to enhancing the first generation, lower-income, and/or undocumented/DACA undergraduate student experience at Northwestern. SES works with these students to foster identity development, navigate campus resources, and build community. 

Through campus-wide partnerships and advocacy, SES strives to build an inclusive Northwestern community that is welcoming, supportive, and accessible for all students. 

Our dedicated staff can help connect you to FGLI communities and resources in our office and across campus and help make your transition to Northwestern successful. No question is too small or too big. SES also has a student facing space for FGLI students to study and hangout. We even have snacks and coffee/tea!  

Attend SES’ Open House during Wildcat Welcome 

The annual SES Open House celebrates our first generation, lower-income, and/undocumented/DACA students and their families on the first day of Wildcat Welcome. During the event, you can connect with other students, learn more about SES, and receive a Welcome Kit to help with your transition to campus life (sheets, towels, washcloths, water bottles, and more). Check your email for more information this summer! We can’t wait to meet you! 

Getting involved in FGLI programs and communities 

SES’s website, programs, workshops, and other events inform students about the range of resources they can use and the many connections they can make to support their success at Northwestern.