Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato is experiencing its largest international student intake ever, bucking the national trend of declining international enrollments due to stricter U.S. visa policies and travel bans, with a 50% increase this year and students from 35 countries, supported by the college's welcoming environment and efforts to reassure students and families.
Southern Illinois University Carbondale celebrates its first enrollment increase since 2014, with a 2.3% boost in overall enrollment for fall 2023. The university also saw a 6.8% increase in new freshmen and a 10.8% increase in new transfer students. Enrollment in online degree programs rose by 9.2%, and there was an 11.8% increase in new graduate and professional students. The university is on track to reach its goal of 15,000 students by 2030.
Lewiston schools in Maine have seen an increase in enrollment this year, with several hundred more students compared to the previous year. The rise in student numbers includes former home-schooled students returning to public schools and asylum-seeker families enrolling their children. The administration is working to ensure there are enough teachers to accommodate the growing student population, and if necessary, some students may be sent to schools outside their neighborhoods. Lewiston Adult Education also has a waiting list and is looking to hire more staff.
