The Fitchburg State University Family First Program began in the fall of 2013 allowing parents of first generation freshmen to enroll in one free course at the university.
Parents of first generation freshmen are eligible to participate. The university identifies potentially eligible parents based upon information provided by the student on the admissions application and on the FAFSA. In order to be eligible, neither parent may have earned a college degree.
Parents may enroll in one free undergraduate day or evening course that does not have a prerequisite and in which a seat is available at the time of registration. Course options include on campus or online with the option to enroll within one year from the date of notification.
All tuition and fee charges for the course are waived. However, participants are responsible for their books and supplies, as well as transportation costs.
The Family First Program provides the opportunity to earn college credit and to potentially apply the course towards a college degree.