Despite federal education aid disruptions and unfulfilled tuition coverage promises, the Universities of Wisconsin (UWs) are experiencing an unexpected increase in student enrollment. Preliminary data shows a rise of 1,000 students across the consortium of universities, even with challenging financial aid conditions, as per the University of Wisconsin System release.
Despite issues with the new FAFSA rollout, the cancellation of the Wisconsin Tuition Promise, and the closing of some branch campuses, prospective students were undeterred. UW President Jay Rothman noted the unexpected increase in enrollment, saying it shows that Wisconsinites value education. Although FAFSA completion in the state was down 9 percent and late enrollments did not compensate, overall fall 2024 enrollment reached 163,589, the highest since 2020. Growth was seen at UW-Eau Claire, UW-Green Bay, UW-La Crosse, UW-Madison, UW-River Falls, UW-Stevens Point, UW-Superior, and UW-Whitewater, though some institutions experienced declines.
Rothman highlighted the need for increased support and proposed an $855 million budget request to fund an expanded tuition promise for fall 2025. He hopes the legislature will provide relief and avoid tuition increases for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic years.
