Illinois College sees record enrollment
Illinois College has record fall enrollment for the third consecutive year despite the challenges of recruiting in higher education.
Although Illinois College has not been immune to the new challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, students and their families recognize the power of an Illinois College education. They trust IC to prepare students for success after graduation while keeping the campus safe and healthy.
Currently 1,107 students are enrolled on campus and online at Illinois College. This is the second year in a row the College has enrolled more than 1,100 students, marking it as one of the largest student bodies since the College’s founding.
Vice President of External Relations Stephanie Elpers Chipman, who oversees enrollment, says this is a notable achievement given the challenges facing colleges and universities across the country.
“Although Illinois College has not been immune to the new challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, students and their families recognize the power of an Illinois College education. They trust IC to prepare students for success after graduation while keeping the campus safe and healthy,” she said.
Record enrollment in recent years and the continued growth of Illinois College Online, which currently offers eight degree programs fully online, have contributed to the increase. The College has also welcomed more international students this fall — the most in the last five years. Ten countries are represented among these new students: Canada, Colombia, The Bahamas, Northern Ireland, Italy, Germany, Nepal, Myanmar, Spain and Taiwan.
Notably, Illinois College’s current demographics include a more diverse group of first-year students. One third of the incoming class of 2025 are from racial or ethnic backgrounds that are typically underrepresented in colleges and universities.
Illinois College was recently named among the best colleges nationwide in the 2021-2022 rankings and continues to be recognized in rankings for social mobility. U.S. News & World Report ranked IC #22 nationally for social mobility — a college’s ability to help students, especially those who are disadvantaged, improve their social and economic status — up from #34 in 2020.
IC offers resources to support student success and inspire achievement so students from all backgrounds can Graduate READY for personal and professional success. In addition to the exceptional opportunities for internships and hands-on learning and generous scholarships the College is known for, student support services available through the Center for Academic Excellence provide academic coaching and a strong support network for all students.
Growing enrollment to 1200 students by 2022 is part of Illinois College’s plan to ensure student success, realize strategic growth and achieve sustainable foundations.