New analysis from the University of Queensland shows students who are the first in their family to go to university are more likely than others to drop out.
The report’s authors recommended universities consider students’ first-in-family (FIF) status in their equity policies.
Here’s what to know.
Report
The Australian Centre for Student Equity commissioned the report from researchers at the University of Queensland.
Researchers analysed data from 443,609 young Australian citizens and permanent residents.
FIF students make up two-thirds of the entire student population.
Young people whose parents didn’t go to university were less like to go themselves.
Those who did become FIF students were less likely than others to enrol at selective universities.
The data also showed discrepancies in the courses FIF students chose to study. They were more likely than other students to pursue education or health (not medicine) fields, rather than science, engineering, medicine or technology.
Equity
Universities typically recognise six equity groups of students:
- from low socio-economic backgrounds,
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- people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds,
- First Nations people,
- those with disability,
- people from remote areas
- women in ”non-traditional areas of study”
The researchers recommended that universities recognise FIF students as one of these groups, acknowledging they need more support.
They also recommended universities and the Government track “when and how” FIF students’ educational outcomes diverge from other students.
Additionally, they called on the Government to invest in educational support services to help FIF young people access higher education and pursue fields in which they are underrepresented.
“The lack of cultural capital, mentoring and guidance are key factors hindering first-in-family students’ success… The disadvantage stemming from FIF status is distinct from that of any designated equity group,” the report said.
Responses
The sector’s peak representative body, Universities Australia, said it is committed to “policies and actions that open the doors to university for all Australians”.
“Not every Australian has an equal chance to go to university — this needs to change... When more people reach their potential, we all benefit from their talent, skills and creativity,” CEO Luke Sheehy said.
