Western Illinois University's Fall 2024 total new student (freshman, transfer and graduate for Macomb, Quad Cities and online) enrollment is 1,729, according to 10th-day data released by WIU's Institutional Research and Planning. Western's total Fall 2024 enrollment is 6,332.
This year’s enrollment figures underscore Western’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality education while strategically aligning with institutional goals and state-wide plans like the Illinois Board of Higher Education’s (IBHE) A Thriving Illinois.
WIU saw a 6.2% increase in admits from students with a GPA of 4.0 or higher (1,504, up from 1,416 in 2023). This growth reflects Western’s ongoing efforts to attract top-performing students and promote academic excellence.
Additionally, the incoming freshman class has an 11% increase in students enrolling with a GPA above 3.0, and the average GPA of the enrolled freshman class has also improved, rising from 3.40 to 3.48.
"As projected, our enrollment numbers are lower than last year. This outcome reflects the broader changes and challenges currently facing higher education nationwide. We anticipated this shift and are actively adapting our strategies to ensure that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our students," Interim Vice President for Student Success Justin Schuch said.
WIU continues to grow its pipeline of future high school and community college students.
WIU has seen a 33% increase in high school dual enrollment students. This program makes higher education more accessible to high school students, allowing them to earn college credits and get a head start on their academic journey.
New transfer enrollment remained stable, with 596 students compared to 603 last year.
“We are focused on developing the transfer student experience from initial interest in WIU to graduation and are committed to enhancing our pathways with community college partners,” Schuch added.
WIU continues to focus on creating multiple access points for students, including initiatives like the Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) program, which supports re-enrollment and degree completion for students returning to finish their education.
The Finish Line Program, launched this past summer, is focused on Leathernecks who have completed at least 90 credit hours at WIU but have not finished their degrees. Finish Line supports students in obtaining a bachelor’s degree in General Studies with options entirely online, in-person or a combination of both at a reasonable pace.
The BGS program saw a 38% increase in new matriculations this fall, and online students increased by almost 9%. Programs like BGS and expanded dual enrollment opportunities demonstrate WIU’s commitment to making education accessible to a broader range of students.
“Our enrollment strategy is aligned with institutional goals to increase access and opportunity for students while aligning with priorities outlined in A Thriving Illinois,” said Interim President Kristi Mindrup. “By expanding access points through programs like dual enrollment, the Bachelor of General Studies program and strong transfer pathways, we are ensuring that more students have the opportunity to benefit from a Western Illinois University education.”
Overall, fall-to-fall retention of first-year students improved, with underrepresented freshman student retention increasing. Black freshman student fall-to-fall retention increased by 3%, and Latinx freshman student retention increased by 12%.
“We are proud of the dedication and hard work of our students. WIU is committed to closing equity gaps and increasing student success for all Leathernecks. We look forward to enhancing the student experience and building upon our momentum as it relates to student retention,” Mindrup added.
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