UW schools see rise in enrollment; international student population to decline

MADISON (WKOW) -- Preliminary data shows that enrollment at eight campuses in the Universities of Wisconsin has increased this fall.

But as that number goes up, the amount of international students could go down.

According to an early survey based on the first day of classes, freshman enrollment is up by at least 3% at eight of 13 Universities of Wisconsin schools.

It translates to about 900 students statewide.

Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman says affordability is the driving factor behind the increase.

"We are the most affordable public university system in the Midwest and beyond. We are a great value and I think students understand that accessibility," Rothman said.

Rothman also credits direct admission and dual-enrollment as a factor in the enrollment increase.

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