Over the past few years, college administrators have faced increasing challenges with how to increase student enrollment in college. A unique combination of cultural shifts, changes in student preferences, and evolving higher education trends has contributed to declining enrollment across both large and small institutions.

As a college enrollment leader, it’s essential to move beyond low admissions targets and outdated marketing strategies. You need a clear plan and creative approaches to attract students and foster a thriving campus community.

In this article, we’ll explore 10 effective strategies on how to increase student enrollment in college, providing practical solutions to build your institution’s enrollment strategy on a solid foundation of success.

Implementing effective enrollment strategies is more important than ever to combat declining enrollment trends, such as:

• Declining enrollment at community colleges.
• Limited access for minority and low-income students.
• Immediate vocational opportunities drawing students away from traditional college paths.
• A 6.5% overall drop in higher education enrollment over the past few years.

To meet these challenges, higher education institutions need innovative marketing strategies that resonate with today’s students and encourage them to enroll.

Outdated Student Enrollment Strategies are Officially Out

Establishing positive relationships with current students requires a research-backed perspective and strong interpersonal connections. Many colleges that use "old school" ideas and strategies will find that they no longer resonate with high school students who may already have doubts about going through the application process.

Today’s prospective students are also highly connected for their age group, tech-savvy, and even skeptical about making costly decisions. Outdated strategies that lack personality, authenticity, or transparency can hinder higher ed enrollment efforts.

10 Effective Ways To Increase Student Enrollment In College

To bridge the gap and lose fewer students to an ineffective enrollment strategy, college admissions recruitment personnel must think outside the box. Get creative, and experiment to find out what works best for the potential students in your target audience.

To help you increase enrollment, we’ve rounded up eight methods that you can test at your higher education institution.

1. Make the Enrollment Journey a Personal Experience

Prospective college students don’t want to feel like just another applicant. Show them they’re a priority by creating a personalized experience that blends human touch with AI support. Use AI Assistants—like an AI Admissions Advisor, AI Academic Advisor, and AI Financial Aid Advisor—to provide real-time, tailored guidance. AI tools can answer specific questions, keep students on track with reminders, and offer insights on financial aid, all in a way that feels customized.

In addition, use small incentives like scholarships for completing enrollment steps and develop a prospective student portal where future students can access exclusive resources, such as campus tours, program guides, and advisor contacts, to support their decision-making process.

2. Use SMS to Remind Prospective Students

With students bombarded by digital messages, SMS notifications offer a direct way to communicate important deadlines, program information, and next steps. Use your CRM to manage contact information and ensure personalized reminders reach students at the right moments.

3. Use a Story-based Approach to Marketing Materials

Storytelling is a powerful tool for student recruitment. Craft marketing materials that help students visualize the transformation they will experience, from enrolling to completing their degree. Success stories and student testimonials can provide relatable, motivating examples.

4. Invest in Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

SEO ensures your college’s website ranks well in search results, making it easier for prospective students to find relevant information. Implementing SEO best practices, especially for local searches, can significantly boost visibility, particularly for community and regional colleges looking to attract local students.

5. Attract Students Through Relevant Social Media Platforms

Connecting with students on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn can enhance brand visibility. Use features like live videos, targeted ads, and campus stories to engage students where they already spend time online. Experiment with platform-specific content to create a modern, appealing brand image.

6. Honor Admitted Students with Special Perks and Services

Create excitement for admitted students by offering exclusive perks, such as access to a new student portal, special events, or personalized communications. This welcoming approach can help students feel valued and solidify their decision to attend.

Add features to your new student portal, like:

• Financial aid resources.
• Advisor communication tools.
• Event reminders.
• Task checklists for enrollment steps.

7. Celebrate Campus Diversity and Inclusion

There are many ways to incorporate this at your higher education institution. From building an enrollment strategy specifically for minority or international students, to hosting an array of cultural events to boost exposure, aim high when it comes to creating a more inclusive enrollment process. 

Today’s students are drawn to campuses that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Showcase DEI initiatives through campus events, partnerships, and content that highlight the variety of perspectives and cultures at your school.

For example, you might host cultural events or provide resources aimed at underrepresented groups, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity that resonates with prospective students.

8. Develop Virtual Campus Tours and Interactive Webinars

Virtual tours and webinars offer accessible ways for students to explore campus life from afar. Use tools like Element451’s CRM to enhance virtual visits and ensure easy navigation of resources. With options like live Q&A sessions and interactive campus tours, students gain valuable insights even before setting foot on campus.

9. Build Partnerships with Local Businesses and Organizations

Partnering with local businesses, nonprofits, and organizations can extend your reach and help create a community-centric appeal. Whether through internship opportunities, co-branded events, or resource sharing, these partnerships can boost your college’s reputation and draw local students looking for connected educational experiences.

10. Take Advantage of Specific Enrollment Tools within Your CRM

The right admissions CRM tool can expand your enrollment toolkit with new features, better student data, and smart automations. Each of these options reduces stress and hassle from your enrollment process, which creates more room for creativity and connection.

With Element451, your campus enrollment team can benefit from features like:

• Personalized marketing messages
• Quick, stress-free application steps
• Virtual and physical event signup processes
• Admitted sites for enrolled students
• Detailed analytics and reports

By eliminating stress throughout the enrollment process, you can equip your staff members with digital tools that deliver results. In turn, admissions officers can spend more time making meaningful connections with future students. 

Join the Admissions revolution with Element451.

Why Are College Enrollment Strategies Necessary?

Increasing student enrollment requires more than traditional outreach. With shifting demographics and new student expectations, colleges need enrollment strategies that foster engagement, showcase value, and meet students where they are. Today’s prospective students are looking for a personalized experience that aligns with their needs and aspirations, and schools that adapt their strategies are better positioned to stand out in a competitive landscape.

For colleges aiming to reverse declining enrollment trends, a comprehensive admissions platform is essential. With tools that personalize the student journey and streamline the admissions process, schools can create stronger connections and guide prospective students from initial interest to enrollment. The right enrollment strategy doesn’t just increase numbers; it builds a campus community poised for growth and success.

Increase Student Enrollments In College With Element451

Stay ahead of the curve with the latest college enrollment strategies designed to drive engagement and attract students. Element451 offers an innovative admissions platform that empowers your team to design a truly personalized enrollment process, using data-driven insights and automation to maximize impact.

Book your Element451 demo today to see how a customized approach can help your institution reach new enrollment goals and foster meaningful connections with future students.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

How do international students affect college enrollment numbers?

International students bring diversity and cultural perspectives to campus, contributing to a richer learning environment. Their enrollment can help offset domestic enrollment declines, adding valuable perspectives and enhancing the institution’s global reputation.

What is the impact of campus visits on student enrollment decisions?

Campus visits allow prospective students to experience campus culture firsthand, often solidifying their decision to enroll. In-person interactions with faculty, staff, and current students help students envision themselves as part of the community, making visits a key factor in the final enrollment choice.