Georgia Match Program Fuels College Enrollment Growth in the State
The state of Georgia is celebrating a significant boost in college enrolment, thanks to the success of its innovative Georgia Match programme. Designed to connect high school students with higher education opportunities, the initiative has contributed to a notable 5.9% rise in enrolment across the 26 institutions within the University System of Georgia (USG), bringing total enrolment to nearly 365,000 students for 2024.
This increase stands in stark contrast to the national trend, where college enrolment grew by a more modest 3%, according to the National Student Clearinghouse. The resurgence in Georgia’s enrolment figures is seen as a direct result of the proactive strategies employed by Georgia Match.
Quality and Affordability: A Winning Formula
Sonny Perdue, Chancellor of the University System of Georgia, attributes the programme’s success to its emphasis on illustrating the long-term value of a college education. Speaking about the programme, Perdue explained, “We try to promote the facts of the value because people can understand value. That’s really what we’re trying to do: quality versus cost. If you have a great quality product at an affordable rate, then people are more likely to choose that.”
By focusing on these principles, Georgia Match has managed to bridge the gap between high school students and the opportunities available at Georgia’s universities. The initiative provides tailored information and support for students navigating the admissions process, ensuring they see the tangible benefits of pursuing higher education.
Overcoming Declining Trends
Georgia, like much of the nation, experienced a drop in college enrolment in the years leading up to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The decline left state officials grappling with how to reverse the trend. Georgia Match emerged as a solution, targeting students who might not otherwise consider applying to college.
In 2024, the state not only reversed the downward trend but exceeded expectations by doubling the number of incoming first-time freshmen compared to previous years. “We swam against the stream nationally and doubled the incoming first-time freshmen,” Perdue noted, highlighting the programme’s effectiveness. “Where much of the country was down, we were up – and that was 2.6%. So, we’re focusing on value.”
Direct Admission: A Growing Trend
The Georgia Match initiative aligns with a broader movement in the United States towards direct admission, a strategy aimed at simplifying college admissions and reaching students who may be undecided about their future. Through direct admission, Georgia Match sends letters to eligible high school students, detailing pathways to enrolment in public colleges and universities. Over half of the students who received these letters applied for admission.
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By creating a streamlined process, Georgia Match not only increases access to higher education but also builds a sense of possibility for students. Perdue elaborated, “The value of the ability to move within the system is helpful even for those who may not be able to attend or be admitted to one of the larger flagships earlier. They see a path that way eventually, and I think that helps our recruitment in our access colleges.”
Positive Impact Across the Board
The initiative’s success underscores its importance not only to students but also to Georgia’s broader educational ecosystem. By ensuring enrolment growth, Georgia Match contributes to a more robust and competitive University System of Georgia. Moreover, it positions the state as a leader in tackling the challenges of declining college enrolment seen in other parts of the country.
As Georgia officials continue to refine the programme, the impact of Georgia Match serves as a testament to the power of targeted outreach and strategic planning in higher education. With its clear focus on affordability and quality, the programme is not only setting new benchmarks for the state but also providing a model for other regions to emulate.
