Applications to attend Ferris State University are up nearly 40 percent from a year ago – and are at an all-time high.

Now university specialists are ready to help prospective students take the next steps and register for classes, guiding them through the enrollment and financial aid processes and sharing details about housing and other options.

Dean of Enrollment Services Kristen Salomonson said 18,772 students have applied to enroll for the Fall 2024 semester, up from 13,457 at this time in 2023, and greater than the 16,839 applicants in the pre-pandemic year of 2018.

The figures include the Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University, which is seeing a 47 percent increase from a year ago. 

University leaders say the application increase is likely tied to students of all ages learning about educational opportunities that will prepare them for rewarding careers and taking classes in a supportive environment with resources to help them succeed.

“Applications are at an all-time high as students recognize the quality and affordability of a Ferris State education,” Salomonson said. “Ferris State degrees lead to great jobs, here in Michigan. The application is the first step, and we are ready to help students enroll in classes that will change their lives.”

A Ferris State application is free and can be found at ferris.edu/apply.

Applications are coming from students graduating from high school this spring, community college graduates looking to continue their education, and older students looking to start or restart their education to gain skills and advance in their careers.

Many Ferris State academic programs are available online, with assistance available at Student Success Hubs across the state.

The university has 180 programs leading to associate, bachelor’s or graduate degrees, small class sizes, and a hands-on approach that will help students move at the speed of industry.

The Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University, located in the heart of Grand Rapids’ thriving cultural scene, offers undergraduate and undergraduate degrees in fields including fine arts, graphic and product design, and architecture.

The Ferris State Admissions Department has hotlines to assist students. Anyone seeking help with applications, transcripts, visits, orientation, and other admissions features can call 231-591-2000 or email admissions@ferris.edu.

Students can get assistance with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid – also known as FAFSA – by calling 231-591-2110 and emailing finaid@ferris.edu. The team can also assist with questions about scholarships, grants, and loans. Students also can schedule one-on-one appointments online.

Salomonson said she knows many students are delaying making a college decision until they hear details about federal financial aid, which has been delayed while the U.S. Department of Education revamps the FAFSA process.

Ferris State is sending students financial award letters this week even though administrators and prospective students are awaiting additional information.

The university helping students make those decisions by increasing the amount of money available in some merit-based Woodbridge N. Ferris Scholarships for new students that are based on academic performance. Increases vary between $500 and $1,500 depending on the scholarship. Those awarded a $1,500 Crimson Scholarship will see a $1,500 increase. Students earning a $3,500 Dean’s Scholarship will get a $1,000 increase.

Students receiving $6,000 President’s Scholarships and $5,000 Provost’s Scholarships will see a $500 increase. The dollar amount for a $1,000 Ferris Forward Scholarship will be the same, but it will be available to more students as students with a 2.25 high school grade point average are now eligible, adjusted from the prior 2.50 requirement.

Woodbridge N. Ferris Scholarship funds are available for students who have already applied and been accepted, as well as those still to apply for the fall 2024 semester.

The university also encourages students to look at its ScholarshipUniverse program, which provides access to thousands of scholarships.

Additional information about the scholarships is available at this link. Bulldog Bonus information is available at this link.