From the latest estimates on future populations of high school graduates to financial forecasts for higher ed, here are the top-line figures from some of our biggest stories of the week.
By the numbers
10.3%
The projected drop in high school graduates between 2025 and 2041, according to the latest forecast by Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education. The number of graduates is expected to peak next year between 3.8 million and 3.9 million, beginning a long-anticipated decline in traditional-age college students.
33%
The approximate share of private colleges that will see budget deficits of over 2% in 2025 amid high expenses and enrollment pressures, according to estimates from analysts at Moody’s Ratings. They also expect 20% of public institutions to have similar budget issues.
183
The number of high school students that the University of Northwestern admitted through a Minnesota dual enrollment program in the 2023-24 academic year. A 2023 state law barred the conservative Christian college, along with Crown College, from participating in the program because they make on-campus students sign a statement of faith. A judge is considering whether to strike down the law, which is not currently being enforced against the two colleges.
$70 million
The funds that Saint Augustine’s University expects to make from a recent land-leasing deal with a sports firm. After its accreditor voted recently to revoke accreditation, Saint Augustine’s leaders hope the deal and other recent developments will shore up its financial stability enough to persuade accreditation officials to reverse their decision on appeal.
75
The number of University of Baltimore employees who have participated in a homeownership incentive program since it launched in 2018. Under the program, the university contributes $16,000 toward a down payment for employees as a way to help revitalize neighborhoods around the university. It’s one of a handful of such programs at colleges around the country.
