Meet the Challenge of Enrolment Pressure

Enrolment pressure is real. The good news: small, consistent improvements across your website, email, and events can add up fast. Here are five proven moves you can implement this month.

Streamline the Apply and Enquire Path

One of the most effective ways to boost enrolments is to make the application and enquiry process as seamless as possible. A cumbersome process can deter prospective students and their families, leading to missed opportunities. Start by placing a clear and compelling call-to-action (CTA) in the header of your website. This CTA should lead visitors directly to your application or enquiry page in just two clicks. Simplifying the journey not only enhances user experience but also increases the likelihood of conversions.

Ensure that your forms are straightforward and only ask for essential information. Complex forms with too many fields can be off-putting. Additionally, consider implementing chatbots or live chat features to assist visitors in real-time, answering any queries they might have about the application process.

Revamp Course Pages with Key Information

Your course pages are often the first point of contact for prospective students, so they need to be engaging and informative. Start by highlighting the outcomes of each course. Prospective students want to know what they can achieve by enrolling in your program. Include student quotes and testimonials to add a layer of authenticity and relatability.

FAQs are another crucial element. Address common questions and concerns directly on the course pages. This not only saves time for your admissions team but also provides immediate answers to potential students, helping them make informed decisions. High-quality images and videos showcasing campus life and classroom experiences can also make your course pages more appealing.

Engage Your Warm List Weekly with Valuable Emails

Email marketing remains a powerful tool for engaging prospective students who have already shown interest. Your warm list consists of individuals who have interacted with your institution in some capacity, such as attending an open day or downloading a prospectus.

Send out weekly emails that provide value and include a clear next step. This could be an invitation to an upcoming event, a reminder about application deadlines, or a success story from a current student. Personalization is key; tailor your messages based on the recipient's interests and previous interactions with your institution. This approach keeps your audience engaged and more likely to convert.

Leverage Social Proof to Build Credibility

Social proof is a psychological phenomenon where people look to others to determine their own actions. In the context of education, this means showcasing the successes and achievements of your students and alumni. Create a social proof carousel on your website that highlights results, destinations, Ofsted/TEF ratings, and awards.

Feature stories of successful alumni, display testimonials, and share milestone achievements. This not only builds credibility but also helps prospective students envision their own success at your institution. Regularly update this carousel to keep the content fresh and relevant.

Optimize Your Open Evening Strategy for Maximum Impact

Open evenings are a critical component of the enrolment process. They provide an opportunity for prospective students and their families to experience your institution firsthand. Start by creating a comprehensive "Open Evening Engine" that includes save-the-date notifications, reminders, and post-event follow-ups.

Promote your open evenings across all channels, including social media, email, and your website. During the event, ensure that attendees have a memorable experience by offering campus tours, interactive sessions, and opportunities to meet faculty and current students. After the event, send follow-up emails thanking attendees for their time and providing additional resources, such as links to application forms or informational videos.

Utilize Data and CRM Tools for Better Tracking and Scaling

Data-driven decision-making can significantly enhance your enrolment strategies. Implement a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system like HubSpot to track interactions with prospective students. This allows you to see what’s working and scale those efforts.

Set up dashboards and automations to streamline your processes. For example, automated email sequences can nurture leads without requiring constant manual effort. Regularly review your data to identify trends and adjust your strategies accordingly. Transparent reporting can also help you keep senior leadership and governors informed about your progress and impact.

By implementing these five practical strategies, you can boost enrolments and create a more engaging, efficient, and effective admissions process. Small, consistent improvements across your website, email, and events can add up to significant gains for your institution. Ready to take the next step? Book a 30-minute audit to prioritize actions for your intake and see immediate results.