Marquette University surpassed 20,000 applications from prospective students for the incoming fall 2025 undergraduate class, a more than 30% increase over two years from the fall 2023 applicant pool. It marks the fourth consecutive year-over-year increase in applications.
Applicants applied to Marquette from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories including Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The university also received applications from students in 79 countries, a substantial increase from 2024.
Additionally, applicants had higher average ACT and SAT scores, as well as unweighted GPAs, than in 2024.
“The growth in our applicant pool, along with continued increases in both quality and diversity, is a testament to the tireless efforts of the admissions team and our campus partners,” Dean of Admissions Andy Schneider says. “Their dedication to showcasing Marquette’s mission, student experience, and the value of our education — especially in terms of student outcomes — has been key to this achievement.”
Increase in events bringing more visitors to campus
This spring, the Office of Undergraduate Admissions will host thousands of admitted students and their families at events on campus and receptions across the country. These events are a point of emphasis to make connections before they make their college decision, and prospective students are more interested than ever in making those connections, Schneider says.
“We have seen registrations and attendance grow to surpass pre-pandemic numbers,” Schneider says. “Sharing the strength of our campus resources, showcasing the opportunities in our vibrant city and boasting the support within our Marquette community is truly the most rewarding part of our work in admissions.”
Admissions offers a mix of opportunities for students and families to engage on and off campus. More than 1,000 admitted students attended Marquette’s open house events this year, a nearly 10% increase from 2024. On March 8, the office hosted over 200 families for a reception at the Al McGuire Center prior to the men’s basketball game that day. On the first two Saturdays in April, nearly 800 families will visit campus for Discovery Days. Finally, “Find Your Fit Fridays” is a new initiative this spring to give about 100 families on six select Fridays the opportunity to experience a more in-depth trip by adding academic department visits and lunch in a dining hall to their campus tour.
In addition to events in Milwaukee, Marquette’s admission counselors will host 34 receptions and dinners for admitted students and their families across the country this spring.
Nearly every event that Marquette hosts reaches capacity, Schneider says.
“Our admissions team works diligently to organize these events, celebrating our admitted students while providing an opportunity for students and families to build community and learn more about Marquette as they make their final college decision,” Schneider explains. “We also rely on a great partnership with our University Advancement staff to help identify regional alumni to engage with families.”
Student behaviors, expectations remain consistent with national average
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 2029 embodies 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 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.
- “Experiential interests” – Driven by a desire for a career, these students want internships and employment opportunities and are also sensitive to affordability.
- “Career pragmatists” – These students care about return on investment, affordability and the likelihood of getting a job right away. They are not necessarily focused on career.
Similar to last year’s class and aligned with the national average, these students are also socially focused, eager to build meaningful friendships, engage in activities and seek strong social environments.
Jesuit high school numbers jump again
Marquette remains a popular destination for graduates of Jesuit high schools nationwide. The university received over 1,200 completed applications from soon-to-be graduates of Jesuit schools, the most such applications since at least 2015, and a 12% increase from 2023.
Applications still being accepted
Applications are still being accepted following Marquette’s Feb. 1 regular decision deadline. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling and space-available basis.
Those interested in learning more about Marquette and applying should visit the Undergraduate Admissions website.
