Nearly 18,000 prospective students completed applications to join Marquette University’s Class of 2028 this fall, a more than 20% increase from fall 2022. Marquette applicants for the Class of 2028 additionally command strong academic credentials; the applicant pool had higher average ACT and SAT scores, as well as unweighted GPAs, than last year.
Among the applicants were students from all 50 states and 48 countries, and all seven undergraduate colleges experienced an increase in applications.
“Our strong applicant pool exemplifies how deeply Marquette’s mission resonates throughout the country and around the world,” said Brian Troyer, associate vice provost for enrollment management and dean of undergraduate admissions. “We have an amazing admissions team that has been working tirelessly to recruit this cohort, and to ensure students, families, and school counselors are aware of the transformative power of a Marquette education.”
Rising interest from growing markets
Along with a high level of academic quality, the Class of 2028 applicant pool represents more geographic diversity as well.
Applications from Arizona, Colorado and Washington are up over 30%. These tertiary markets have been a core component of the Admissions strategy in addition to targeting rising potential in the West Coast, East Coast, Mid Atlantic and South. Initiatives such as the fly-in program, which provides admitted students from outside Marquette’s nearby geographic area funding to visit campus, help establish a personal connection with those interested in the university.
Unique student behaviors, expectations
“In the spirit of cura personalis, we approach each admissions cycle with the recognition that no two cohorts are the same, nor are any two students,” Troyer said. “Our Admissions team takes great pride in living out Marquette’s mission each year as we blend science and art to enroll a class one student at a time.”
The Admissions strategy accounts for shifting demographics and trends as well as changing student behaviors and expectations. Based on data collected through Encoura’s Eduventures Prospective Student Research, a program frequently used for admissions and enrollment, Marquette’s Class of 2028 embody a shifting mindset about the value of higher education and what they expect from their experience. Relative to the national distribution of high school data, Marquette’s incoming class strongly represents:
- “Career pragmatists” – These students care about ROI, affordability and the likelihood of getting a job right away. They are not necessarily focused on career.
- “Experiential interests” – Driven by a desire for a career, these students want internships and employment opportunities and are also sensitive to affordability.
- “Career through academics” – Prioritizing a long-term career, these students see their path in the integration of strong academics and career preparation. They are level-headed decision-makers.
Aligned with the national average, the class is also socially focused, eager to build meaningful friendships, engage in activities and pursue strong social environments.
Popular-and-rising destination among Jesuit high schools
Marquette remains a popular destination for graduates of Jesuit high schools. The university received over 1,100 completed applications from soon-to-be graduates of Jesuit schools, a nearly 10% increase from last year.
Applications are still being accepted following Marquette’s regular decision deadline. Applications received and completed after the Jan. 15 deadline will be reviewed on a rolling and space-available basis. Decision notifications for these applicants will begin in February.
Those interested in learning more about Marquette and applying should visit the Undergraduate Admissions website.
