The University of Illinois Springfield has enrolled 312 first-year students for fall 2025, a 19.1% increase from last fall’s 262 freshmen. New students cite UIS’ academic programs, personalized attention and career outcomes as key reasons for enrolling.
“We are pleased to see more first-year students choosing UIS to begin their college journey,” said Janet L. Gooch, UIS chancellor. “Through new scholarships like the Prairie Promise Program, innovative academic programs and hands-on experiences such as internships, UIS is opening doors and preparing students for successful careers.”
Transfer enrollment also remains strong, with 1,419 students enrolled, up from 1,413 a year ago. The increase was driven by more continuing transfer students returning to UIS.
Total enrollment at UIS after the first 10 days of classes is 4,364, down from 4,628 last fall. Much of the overall decline can be attributed to international enrollment. UIS enrolled 638 international graduate students this fall, compared to 875 in 2024. Undergraduate international enrollment also declined slightly, with 77 students enrolled this year, down from 82.
“UIS remains committed to welcoming students from around the world,” said Vickie Cook, UIS vice chancellor for enrollment and retention management. “This fall, many international students faced hurdles such as visa processing delays, increased documentation requirements and limited appointments at U.S. consulates, which prevented them from arriving in time.”
In response, UIS is expanding virtual outreach, offering individualized admissions guidance and exploring flexible start options for students whose travel is delayed. UIS is also strengthening global partnerships through new exchange agreements with international universities and expanded cultural and academic support for students studying at UIS.
While addressing international enrollment challenges, UIS is also focused on strengthening academic offerings. The university has launched its first Academic Portfolio Review, a comprehensive evaluation of programs based on workforce demand, enrollment trends and community impact, with the goal of ensuring long-term sustainability and student success.
“This process allows us to identify where we can strengthen programs and explore new opportunities,” Gooch said. “It keeps UIS forward-thinking and responsive to the needs of Illinois and beyond.”
By the numbers:
- Undergraduate enrollment is 2,337, compared to 2,309 in fall 2024.
- Graduate enrollment is 2,027, compared to 2,319 in fall 2024.
- Illinois residents make up 71.6% of the student body, with 3,126 students enrolled from across the state.
- There are 1,928 online majors this fall, compared to 1,967 in fall 2024.
- 81.8% of UIS students take at least one online course, with online learners residing in 44 states, 81 Illinois counties and 25 foreign countries.
The University of Illinois Springfield, part of the world-class University of Illinois System, is a public regional comprehensive university committed to serving students from all backgrounds. UIS prepares and empowers students to succeed and make a lasting impact through an engaging and individualized learning experience with leadership development at its core.