Case Study: Marquette University achieves higher freshman enrollment and a stronger applicant pool with Ruffalo Noel Levitz

How our yield increased through a counterintuitive decline in applications

Marquette University faced a challenge: despite growing application numbers, freshman yield wasn’t improving. Working with Ruffalo Noel Levitz and using RNL Complete Enrollment™ tools (including RNL Demand Builder, RNL Applicant Cultivator, and RNL predictive analytics), Marquette shifted to a data-driven search strategy to find a smaller, better-qualified pool of applicants who were more likely to enroll.

Ruffalo Noel Levitz helped Marquette revamp communications, implement a new CRM, and apply predictive modeling and targeted outreach, complemented by strategic financial aid. The result: a 163-student increase in freshmen (from 1,818 to 1,981), a 39% drop in applications (23,302 to 14,257), a higher conversion rate and exceeded deposit goals (well over the 1,935 target), all while maintaining class quality.

Marquette University

Jean Burke

Interim Dean of Admissions