Campus Connection

First-year student enrollment hits all-time high as UWL continues to grow

UW-La Crosse is once again celebrating an enrollment milestone. Preliminary estimates show that UWL has welcomed the largest first-year class in its history, with 2,385 new students enrolled — surpassing last year’s record of 2,325. 

“It is exciting to welcome a phenomenal class of new students to UWL this fall,” says Corey Sjoquist, assistant vice chancellor for Admissions & Recruitment. “As other campuses may struggle with enrollment, UWL remains strong. Students seeking a residential, in-person learning experience find it here — in our highly regarded programs, our dedicated staff and a campus culture focused on student success.” 

Overall enrollment grows  

UWL’s overall enrollment is also growing. Preliminary estimates show that 10,627 students are enrolled, compared to 10,492 students on the 10th day of classes in fall 2024. Official census numbers will be finalized after the 10th day of the semester, but early indicators suggest another strong year for the university, notes Grace Engen, UWL director of Institutional Research, Assessment, & Planning. 

UWL students come from across  the world and all over Wisconsin, with students representing all 72 Wisconsin counties. 

“It is inspiring to see students from every corner of Wisconsin — as well as from across the country and around the world — choosing UWL," Chancellor James Beeby says. “Our strong enrollment reflects UWL’s commitment to providing high-quality academics, a vibrant campus community and an outstanding overall experience for our students." 

Enrollment growth is supported by highly regarded academic programs, including continued interest in key academic areas. Health professions programs and majors in the College of Business Administration remain popular. UWL has also seen rising interest in new programs, such as engineering physics and data science, notes Sjoquist. 

Graduate, transfer and international enrollment remain stable

In addition to the record-setting first-year class, preliminary figures for other student groups remain consistent with previous years: 

• Graduate students: 945 (compared to 946 on last year’s census day) 
• Transfer students: 299 (matching last year’s census day total) 
• International students: 92 (up slightly from 87 last year), including 18 non-degree seeking and nine graduate students 

UWL’s broader impact 

UWL students don’t just enrich the campus — they play a vital role in the broader La Crosse community. As residents, employees and consumers, students contribute to the local economy. Families visiting for move-in, Family Weekend, commencement and other campus events also bring business to area hotels, restaurants and shops. 

After graduation, UWL alumni continue to make a difference — both in Wisconsin and beyond. 

"Enrollment is not just a number — it is what empowers us to deliver on our mission of strengthening the state of Wisconsin. And we are doing just that," Beeby says. "While students come to UWL from all over the country, many decide to build their lives and careers here. We are deeply proud of the fact that nearly 80% of UWL students remain in Wisconsin to live and work after graduation.” 

Looking ahead 

Prospective students can apply for fall 2026 at www.apply.wisconsin.edu. Campus visits are available year-round and can be scheduled at www.uwlax.edu/visit. 

Quick facts: UWL Fall Enrollment 

First-year students (preliminary): 2,385 (record high) 

Total enrollment (preliminary): 10,627 

Previous record total enrollment: 10,664 (Fall 2014)