Central Wisconsin News

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point has reported its largest first-year class in four decades for the 2025-26 academic year, according to preliminary enrollment figures from the first day of classes.

First-year student enrollment increased by 8 percent, totaling 2,021 students across the university’s three campuses. Laura Bell, associate chief marketing and enrollment officer, noted that first-year numbers have grown by nearly 50 percent since 2019.

“Our marketing strategies and campus visit experiences have been reimagined to emphasize what makes UWSP stand out, our return on investment and our skill-building opportunities,” said Bell. “We also saw a growth in our redesigned Admitted Student Days, which introduce new Pointers to campus life, resulting in a 5% increase from last year.”

Bell attributed some of the growth to the Universities of Wisconsin Direct Admit program. The initiative allows faculty, staff, and students at UW-Stevens Point to engage with more prospective students by connecting Wisconsin high schoolers directly with UW campuses based on their academic achievements.

Total enrollment for all three UW-Stevens Point campuses reached 8,538 for the 2025-26 academic year—a rise of 3.5 percent over last year. Enrollment at the main campus grew by 4.3 percent, which is the highest among all main campuses within the Universities of Wisconsin system.

“UWSP has become the university of choice for students across Wisconsin,” said Interim Chancellor Pratima Gandhi. “Our exceptional academic programs, hands-on internships, research placements, and field experiences gives students the means to build skills in several areas and prepares them to meet current workforce demands.”

The university continues to develop new degree offerings based on market research. Recent additions include a bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence, a master’s degree in social work, and several graduate certificates aimed at working professionals. Partnerships with local businesses such as Sentry and Skyward provide internship opportunities that help prepare students for various careers.

UW-Stevens Point maintains affordable tuition rates and ranks among top UW campuses for timely financial aid awards through its NextGen Scholarship Portal.

Prospective students entering college in fall 2026 can schedule visits at any of UW-Stevens Point’s Welcome or Solution Centers. Tours provide information about new wellness facilities, student support resources, campus life, application procedures, and return on investment. Additional details about visit options are available at www.uwsp.edu/visit.