A growing number of colleges are struggling to gain and keep enrollment. Despite the fact that applications have actually increased, it’s only among select schools—the most competitive ones, now being called “Ivy plus”—meaning enrollment is not surging with it. In turn, a recent report indicates that since 2020, over 40 colleges have closed, with at least 20 of those closures occurring in 2024 alone. The most affected by this trend appears to be small private schools, which have less name value but just as high a price tag. High tuition has long been a concern for attending private institutions, but more students are now favoring affordable alternatives such as public colleges and vocational or trade programs if the private school they are accepted to isn’t the very best of the best. Additionally, ongoing problems with the Federal Student Aid application process have further exacerbated declining enrollment figures. (CNBC)
📊 YPulse data: 80% of middle and high school students plan to go to college, -20pts less than in 2019
