9 Simple Ways To Increase Student Signups This 2026

Summary

• With 42% of U.S. institutions reporting enrollment declines, a great course alone is no longer enough; a strategic marketing approach is essential for growth.

• Key strategies for success include hyper-personalizing communication, building trust with authentic social proof, and creating valuable content to attract students organically.

• Implementing smart technology like an AI-powered assistant automates outreach and qualifies leads 24/7, freeing up your team to focus on high-intent students and boost conversion rates.

You've invested countless hours creating your course, perfecting the curriculum, and setting up your learning platform. But when you launch, the signups trickle in at a disappointingly slow pace—or worse, don't come at all. It feels like shouting into the void.

"I have heard horror stories of people dropping thousands of dollars on FB ads and getting zero sales. That's a nightmare to me," confesses one course creator on Reddit. This fear resonates with many educational institutions and course creators today.

Let's get one thing straight: there's no "set it and forget it" magic button for growing enrollment. As countless experienced educators have learned, "selling courses online is primarily a marketing task, no matter how good your course is."

The enrollment landscape is challenging: 42% of U.S. institutions reported a decline in new international student enrollments for Fall 2024. Yet simultaneously, the global admissions software market is expected to grow from USD 1.5 billion in 2024 to USD 3.2 billion by 2033, showing there's massive investment in solving these challenges.

This article offers nine straightforward, proven strategies to boost your student signups in 2026—without breaking the bank or getting lost in overly complex marketing tactics.

1. Master Hyper-Personalization with Data and AI

Today's students expect personalized experiences from their first touchpoint through enrollment and beyond. Generic, one-size-fits-all messaging no longer cuts it.

Leverage data analytics to understand your prospective students' demographics, interests, and online behaviors. This information allows you to tailor your marketing approach to specific audience segments rather than blasting identical messages to everyone.

AI-powered support tools have become game-changers. For instance, AI assistants like Havana can automate responses to frequently asked questions 24/7, freeing up staff to focus on high-value conversations. This not only improves the student experience with instant answers but also boosts team efficiency.

Action step: Integrate an AI communication tool like Havana with your Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to create personalized recruitment campaigns. Use it to set up automated, personalized email and SMS sequences based on where students are in your application funnel.

2. Build Trust with Authentic Storytelling and Social Proof

"If you already have a bunch of people who have taken your course and value it, then you can use that for word of mouth," advises one experienced course creator. But what if you're just starting?

Prospective students want reassurance they're making the right choice. They need to see themselves succeeding with your program.

Start small: offer a free module or discounted access to your first batch of students in exchange for detailed feedback and testimonials. Feature these success stories prominently on your website, in emails, and throughout your marketing materials.

Develop a clear brand identity that communicates your unique strengths and values. Whether it's innovative teaching methods, industry connections, or exceptional student support, make sure your differentiators shine through consistently across all channels.

Action step: Create a dedicated "Student Success Stories" section on your website featuring video testimonials, written quotes, and specific outcomes achieved by past students.

3. Create an Engaging Digital Campus Experience

For many prospective students, your online presence is their first and most important impression of your institution. Make it count.

Offer virtual tours and interactive webinars that bring your campus or learning environment to life. Host Q&A sessions where prospective students can engage directly with instructors and current students.

Institutions using Wisr Virtual Communities saw up to 6x higher yield rates for students who engaged in these communities before enrolling. These pre-enrollment communities create a sense of belonging that significantly impacts conversion rates.

Ensure your digital experience is seamless across all devices and platforms. With many students browsing on mobile, your website and application process must be fully optimized for smartphones.

Action step: Create a prospective student portal with personalized resources like program guides, sample lectures, and easy access to application materials.

4. Drive Organic Growth with Content Marketing & SEO

"Create valuable content and establish your own channel(s)" is a recurring recommendation from successful course creators. Instead of solely paying for attention through ads, earn it by solving problems for your target audience.

Invest in search engine optimization (SEO) to ensure your institution appears when prospective students search for relevant programs. Identify the keywords your ideal students use when researching educational opportunities and optimize your website accordingly.

Create high-quality blog posts, videos, and guides that address common questions and concerns. This positions you as a helpful authority in your field while attracting organic traffic to your website.

Use your best content as lead magnets—valuable resources offered in exchange for contact information. A "Complete Guide to Financial Aid Applications" or a sample lecture can convert casual browsers into leads while pre-qualifying them as interested in your offerings.

Action step: Develop a content calendar focused on addressing your prospective students' most pressing questions, with clear calls-to-action leading to your application or information request forms.

5. Harness the Power of Direct Communication (SMS & Email)

Social media algorithms constantly change, potentially limiting your reach. Building direct communication channels through email and SMS gives you control over your message delivery.

Implement SMS for time-sensitive communications like application deadlines and event reminders. With open rates typically exceeding 95%, text messaging ensures your important notifications get seen.

Develop a nurturing email sequence that gradually builds trust and interest. Share success stories, program updates, and exclusive content that demonstrates your value proposition.

Segment your email list based on interests, application stage, and engagement level to ensure messages remain relevant. Generic email blasts typically generate poor results compared to targeted communications.

Action step: Use an AI-powered tool like Havana to set up automated SMS reminders for key deadlines and implement a multi-touch welcome sequence for new leads that introduces your program benefits over several communications.

6. Focus on Diversity and Inclusion to Widen Your Reach

A genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion isn't just ethically important—it's a strategic advantage that broadens your potential student base.

Develop targeted recruitment strategies for underrepresented student groups. This includes creating specific outreach materials that address their unique concerns and opportunities.

Showcase your commitment through cultural events, DEI initiatives, and highlighting diverse student experiences on your platforms. Let prospective students see that your institution welcomes everyone.

Agapanthus University shifted its strategy to focus on underrepresented students, resulting in a 12% increase in enrollment of students of color and a 7% overall enrollment growth over three years.

Action step: Review your marketing materials through a diversity lens and ensure they represent the inclusive community you aim to create. Consider establishing scholarship opportunities specifically for underrepresented groups.

7. Build Strategic Partnerships and Engage Your Community

You don't need to build your audience from scratch. Leverage existing communities and organizations to expand your reach efficiently.

Collaborate with local businesses for internships, co-branded events, and scholarship opportunities. These partnerships strengthen community ties while creating valuable experiences for students.

Engage in community events, college fairs, and sponsorships to build brand awareness and meet prospective students where they are. Personal connections often convert at higher rates than digital-only outreach.

Implement referral programs that incentivize current students and alumni to recommend your programs. Word-of-mouth from trusted sources remains one of the most powerful enrollment drivers.

Action step: Identify 3-5 potential community partners whose audience aligns with your ideal student profile and reach out with specific collaboration proposals.

8. Implement Smart Enrollment Technology to Boost Efficiency

The right technology doesn't just automate tasks; it enhances the student experience and frees your team to focus on building meaningful relationships.

Start by integrating an AI-powered communication tool like Havana to automate outreach and qualify leads efficiently. While comprehensive enrollment management systems like Blackbaud or Element451 handle the entire student lifecycle, Havana supercharges the top of your funnel, ensuring your team engages only with high-intent students.

The ROI of these systems is compelling:

• Cost reduction: Automation lowers the cost per enrollment by 15-30%

• Increased conversion: Streamlined processes can boost applications by 15-25% in the first year

• Improved efficiency: Staff can focus on high-value interactions rather than administrative tasks

For example, institutions that automate their initial follow-up and application processes have seen enrollment increases of up to 59% by ensuring every lead is contacted promptly and nurtured effectively.

Action step: Evaluate your current enrollment technology stack against your needs. Look for solutions with customizable workflows, user-friendly dashboards, and real-time analytics to support data-driven decisions.

9. Optimize Relentlessly with Data-Driven Insights

Don't guess what works—know what works by tracking key metrics and continuously optimizing your approach.

Implement analytics to track engagement patterns, website traffic, and campaign performance. Understanding which channels and messages drive the most qualified leads allows you to allocate resources efficiently.

Conduct regular A/B testing on your messaging, headlines, and calls-to-action. Small improvements in conversion rates can significantly impact your overall enrollment numbers.

Auburn University leveraged historical data analysis across 100+ touchpoints to develop a comprehensive recruitment strategy. The result was a 73% increase in applications from 2021-2023 and a 15% increase in overall yield. Net deposits from underrepresented students grew by 37%.

Action step: Establish a dashboard of key enrollment metrics and schedule monthly reviews to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.

The Path Forward

Increasing student signups in 2026 isn't about finding a silver bullet or magical shortcut. As one experienced educator noted, "There's no magic trick that you can learn in a Reddit discussion or two that is going to give you what you need."

Success comes from a sustained, strategic commitment to understanding and serving your students. It requires consistent effort in marketing, regardless of how excellent your educational offering may be.

The strategies outlined above provide a practical roadmap, but implementation is key. Start by selecting one or two approaches that align with your current capabilities and resources. Build momentum with small wins, then expand your efforts.

Remember that "selling courses online is primarily a marketing task, no matter how good your course is." By embracing this reality and approaching enrollment growth systematically, you can build a sustainable pipeline of qualified, enthusiastic students for your programs.

The tools and strategies to succeed are within your reach—it's time to put them into action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to increase student enrollment?

The best way to increase student enrollment is to implement a multi-faceted strategy that combines personalization, content marketing, and smart technology. Rather than relying on a single tactic, success comes from understanding your ideal students, building trust with authentic stories, and using data to continuously optimize your marketing and recruitment efforts.

How can I market my course with a small budget?

You can effectively market your course on a small budget by focusing on organic growth strategies. Prioritize creating valuable content like blog posts or guides to attract students through search engines (SEO), build an email list for direct communication, and gather testimonials from early students to use as powerful and free social proof.

Why is personalization so important for student recruitment?

Personalization is crucial for student recruitment because today's prospective students expect tailored experiences, not generic, one-size-fits-all messages. Using data to understand their interests allows you to create targeted communications that resonate, build stronger connections, and significantly increase the likelihood of them choosing your program.

What role does AI play in boosting student signups?

AI plays a key role in boosting student signups by automating and personalizing communication at scale. AI-powered tools can answer common questions 24/7, nurture leads with tailored email and SMS sequences, and qualify high-intent prospects, which frees up your team to focus on building relationships with the most promising candidates.

How do I get testimonials if my course is brand new?

To get testimonials for a new course, you can offer a free or heavily discounted spot to an initial group of students. In exchange for this special access, ask for detailed feedback and permission to feature their success stories and quotes in your marketing materials. This is an excellent way to build social proof from the ground up.

How long does it take to see results from these enrollment strategies?

The time to see results varies by strategy. You can see quick engagement from direct communication tactics like an SMS campaign within weeks. However, more sustainable, long-term strategies like content marketing and SEO typically require 3-6 months to build momentum and deliver a consistent flow of organic leads and signups.

Learn more about implementing data-driven enrollment strategies or discover how Havana's AI-powered recruiter can automate your outreach and boost efficiency.