Several colleges are reducing their enrollments by implementing stricter admissions practices and enforcing financial policies. For instance, the University of Arizona saw a nearly 19% decline in its latest cohort due to updated policies, including ending rolling admissions for first-year, on-campus students and discontinuing a program for academically unprepared students. Similarly, the University of Memphis denied admission to 260 applicants it historically would have accepted, raising the minimum SAT/ACT scores and GPAs. The University of Louisiana at Lafayette expelled nearly 200 students who had no payments or financial aid posted for the fall semester.

These actions reflect a shift from focusing solely on increasing student numbers to prioritizing enrollment practices that enhance student retention and ensure stable revenue. Jody Gordon from AACRAO notes that schools are realizing the importance of recruiting students who are more likely to stay enrolled. This approach is particularly significant given the financial challenges these institutions have faced. The University of Memphis, for example, experienced a 18% decrease in its degree-seeking undergraduate population between 2019 and 2024, while the University of Arizona reported a $177 million budget deficit in early 2024.

Colleges are also becoming more transparent about the costs and expectations associated with attending their institutions. The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is demystifying expenses like living costs and indirect fees, aiming to reduce the number of students who struggle with debt. By raising admission standards, these universities are admitting students who are better prepared to succeed academically. The University of Memphis, for instance, increased its average ACT score for incoming students from 20.9 to 22.2, admitting only those with a minimum 18 on the ACT.

News is prepared from public university announcements for general guidance. Policies change frequently; confirm current details with each university admissions office.