National Student Clearinghouse Corrects Enrollment Error

The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center has corrected its earlier report, revealing that freshman college enrollment increased in fall 2024, contrary to a previously reported 5% decline due to a methodological error misclassifying some freshmen as dual-enrolled students. The initial incorrect data had significant implications, particularly affecting perceptions of enrollment trends among Pell Grant recipients. The revised data indicates a 3% rise in overall undergraduate enrollment, aligning with local observations such as in Minnesota, where institutions reported increases contrary to the initial data. Further details will be provided in a forthcoming report on January 23. The Center has acknowledged the error and is reviewing its methodologies to prevent future inaccuracies.