freshman

Freshman is a term used to describe a first-year student at a secondary or postsecondary institution. It is most common in North America, where many schools structure their programs in annual steps and distinguish between freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors. In other regions, the same concept is often referred to as a first-year student or first-year.

In the United States and Canada, a freshman typically refers to a student in ninth grade. The year marks the transition from middle to high school and often includes orientation, course selection, and introduction to school routines. Graduation requirements and the possibility of advanced placement or honors courses may be emphasized during this year.

In colleges and universities, a freshman is a student in their first year of undergraduate study. Orientation programs, advising sessions, and introductory or general education courses are common features. Some institutions offer first-year seminars designed to help new students develop academic skills and adjust to campus life. Freshmen may live in residence halls, participate in student organizations, and engage in bridge programs that connect them with upperclass mentors.

Term usage varies: freshman is widely used in the United States; in the United Kingdom and parts of Canada, the equivalent term is fresher. Many universities now prefer gender-neutral language such as first-year student or first-year undergraduate.

While the term is neutral, the concept sometimes carries stereotypes for first-year students, such as the “freshman year” being a period of adjustment. Institutions often implement programs aimed at improving retention and success during the freshman year.