Higher education research

First Nations students’ progress into and through university

Publication Date

3-16-2026

Subjects

Aboriginal students, Equal education, Higher education, Interviews, Student retention, Student support services

Abstract

This project provides insight into the pathways and approaches to university by First Nations students and the role that a university centre designed specifically to support First Nations students can have on building success for students. The work focussed on building an understanding across the lifespan of a university student from the idea of going to university, through to the experience once enrolled and embedded in university life. After providing a brief background and overview of existing literature on the university experience for First Nations students, we analysed national-level administrative data on student retention and completions for First Nations students and undertook semi-structured interviews with 16 students and eight staff from a metropolitan university and its First Nations Centre. With appropriate resourcing, First Nations Centres can provide the necessary culturally sensitive support to First Nations students, including: course and careers counselling, enrolment and admissions, academic support, accommodation and financial support, a meeting place, and links to medical and mental health services.

Place of Publication

Perth, Western Australia

Publisher

Australian Centre for Student Equity and Success, Curtin University

ISBN

978-1-7644511-2-3

Link to Full Text

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