Universities of Wisconsin enrollment up for third straight year, record growth shown for Wisconsin new freshman enrollment

MADISON, Wis.—Universities of Wisconsin overall enrollment increased for the third straight year led by a record increase of Wisconsin-resident new freshmen, according to official fall 2025 enrollment figures released today.

This is the first time since 2010 that enrollment has increased three years in a row.

Fall 2025 enrollment totals 164,626 students, an increase of 190 students over Fall 2024. While modest, this year’s growth builds on significant gains in the two prior years and includes a broad-based, 5.5 percent increase in Wisconsin resident new freshman enrollment, the largest on record. Nine of the 13 UW universities experienced enrollment growth.

“This is a moment worth celebrating,” said Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman. “Three years of sustained growth shows that students and families see the Universities of Wisconsin as a smart investment in themselves and in Wisconsin’s future. It will help Wisconsin win the war for talent.”

Wisconsin resident new freshman enrollment rose by 5.5 percent, or 1,033 students. Rothman credited Direct Admit Wisconsin and the 2025 Wisconsin Tuition Promise, funded through the UWs and Ascendium, for helping drive the increase. Seven universities participating in Direct Admit showed Wisconsin freshman enrollment gains of more than 9 percent.

“Direct Admit Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Tuition Promise have opened doors for more students across the state,” said Rothman. “These initiatives are driving broad-based growth that reflects our commitment to serving all Wisconsinites.”

Overall enrollment gains were tempered by a decline of 7.6 percent in international students.

The 10th day enrollment figures provide the basis for figures reported to the federal government. Preliminary enrollment estimates released last month suggested an overall decrease of 96 students for Fall 2025.

The final 10-day fall 2025 enrollment figures for each university are:

• UW-Eau Claire: 9,487
• UW-Green Bay: 11,519
• UW-La Crosse: 10,584
• UW-Madison: 51,481
• UW-Milwaukee: 22,909
• UW-Oshkosh: 12,191
• UW-Parkside: 3,920
• UW-Platteville: 6,426
• UW-River Falls: 5,377
• UW-Stevens Point: 8,532
• UW-Stout: 7,061
• UW-Superior: 2,872
• UW-Whitewater: 12,267

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.