The way students explore colleges has changed. The pandemic redefined their expectations, behaviors, and engagement patterns. To stay ahead, institutions need a dynamic strategy—one that adapts to evolving trends and ensures personalized outreach. This is where a CRM in education becomes essential.
Meritto’s CRM in education sector empowers institutions with automation, real-time insights, and a student-first approach. By integrating an enrollment management system, institutions can streamline recruitment, engagement, and conversions with precision.
Let’s dive into three key shifts in student recruitment and how Meritto’s CRM in education industry helps institutions navigate them.
1. The Enrollment Timeline Has Shifted
Traditionally, students started researching colleges by their sophomore year. However, recent trends show a significant delay. In 2019, 67% of students had begun college research by the end of their sophomore year. In 2023, this number dropped to 40%.
Additionally, students are visiting campuses later than before. Many now wait until after acceptance to explore their options. This shift challenges institutions that rely on early engagement to drive applications.
How Meritto’s CRM in Education Bridges the Gap
- Real-Time Engagement: With an enrollment management system, institutions can identify prospective students early, nurturing them through automated touchpoints.
- Omnichannel Communication: Personalize engagement across WhatsApp, email, SMS, and social media to ensure continuous connection.
- Application Tracking: The CRM in education industry provides real-time tracking of student behavior, allowing institutions to adjust strategies based on engagement levels.
2. Mental Health Concerns Influence Enrollment Decisions
The pandemic increased anxiety and uncertainty among students. Mental health now plays a major role in whether students choose to enroll. Among students who opted out of college, a growing number cited “not being mentally ready” as a primary reason.
First-generation and low-income students are particularly affected. These students require greater support and reassurance before making enrollment decisions.
How Meritto’s CRM Software for Higher Education Supports Student Well-Being
- Personalized Outreach: Automated yet personalized messaging reassures students and helps address their concerns.
- AI-Driven Insights: Identify students who need additional guidance and proactively provide resources.
- Counselor Engagement: Track student interactions to ensure timely interventions by admissions teams and counselors.
3. Academic Preparedness Is a Growing Concern
Pandemic-driven disruptions led to significant learning losses. Many students now feel unprepared for college. In a recent survey, 73% of high school counselors reported a decline in student readiness.
Additionally, 26% of students listed “whether I’ll be successful in college” as a top concern—just behind affordability.
How Meritto’s Enrollment Management System Addresses Readiness Gaps
- Pre-Enrollment Support: Automate reminders for preparatory programs, bridge courses, and virtual mentoring sessions.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Use analytics to track student progress and offer customized academic support.
- Intelligent Lead Scoring: Identify students who need additional academic reassurance and tailor engagement accordingly.
Why CRM in Education Is No Longer Optional
The modern student journey is non-linear. Engagement is fragmented across multiple touchpoints, and decision-making is influenced by digital experiences. Institutions that rely on outdated recruitment methods risk losing out to competitors who embrace technology.
A CRM in education sector like Meritto’s ensures institutions remain adaptable. It integrates seamlessly with existing workflows, centralizes student data, and enables smarter, more personalized interactions.
Key Benefits of Meritto’s CRM in the Education Industry
- Automated Lead Nurturing: Keep prospects engaged with timely, personalized communication.
- AI-Powered Predictive Analytics: Forecast student behavior and optimize marketing efforts.
- Multi-Channel Engagement: Communicate across email, WhatsApp, social media, and SMS.
- Seamless Integration: Connect with existing platforms for a unified enrollment strategy.
- Customizable Dashboards: Get real-time insights into application trends and student behavior.
Final Thoughts: Future-Proof Your Enrollment Strategy
Gen P is redefining college search behavior. Institutions must move beyond traditional recruitment tactics and adopt a CRM in education that supports real-time engagement, data-driven decision-making, and automation.
Meritto’s CRM software for higher education ensures your institution stays ahead in the ever-evolving enrollment landscape. Whether it’s reaching students earlier, addressing mental health concerns, or enhancing academic support—our platform delivers.
Ready to transform your enrollment strategy? Schedule a demo today and discover how Meritto can help you recruit, engage, and enroll the next generation of students seamlessly.
