What percentage of undergraduate students are classified as first-generation?

The correct answer is that approximately 20% of undergraduate students are classified as first-generation. This classification refers to students whose parents did not attend college, signifying a significant impact on access to higher education and the experiences of those students. Understanding the percentage of first-generation college students is crucial because it highlights the unique challenges they face, such as navigating the college application process without parental guidance and adjusting to college life in environments that may be unfamiliar to them. Institutions often implement various support systems and resources aimed at helping these students succeed.

The other percentages provided do not accurately reflect the commonly recognized statistic regarding first-generation students. While 15%, 25%, and 30% might seem plausible at first glance, they do not align with the research and data collected on the demographic distribution of first-generation college students in recent studies. Thus, 20% encapsulates a well-documented figure that is often cited in educational reports and studies.