IMMACULATA, PA — Immaculata University expects to welcome 495 new students this fall, extending enrollment growth for a second consecutive year as first-year applications and transfer enrollment continued to climb, the university announced.
The incoming class includes 421 first-year students and 74 transfer students as of Aug. 12, an increase of more than 8% from the 2025 entering class. First-year enrollment is up 7% year over year, while transfer enrollment increased by more than 20%.
The gains follow last year’s largest first-year class in a decade and coincide with a 14.9% increase in undergraduate applications, which rose to 3,836 for fall 2026 from 3,339 a year earlier.
University President Barbara Lettiere attributed the enrollment growth to sustained confidence in the institution among prospective students and families.
“Immaculata’s enrollment momentum reflects the confidence students and families place in the value of an Immaculata education,” Lettiere stated. She added that faculty and staff have helped create an environment where students “thrive.”
The university has expanded campus housing to accommodate the larger student body. Recent residence hall renovations increased residential capacity by approximately 40 beds.
Patricia Canterino, vice president of student development and undergraduate admissions and dean of students, indicated the enrollment gains stem from long-term recruitment efforts that often begin when prospective students are sophomores in high school.
“Each incoming class represents months of building relationships with students and their families,” Canterino noted. “Getting to know our students, learning about their goals and helping them find the right fit is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.”
Immaculata expects total enrollment this fall to range between 2,500 and 2,600 students, excluding dual-enrollment participants. Final enrollment figures will be determined after the university’s official October census.
Christine Rhine, executive director of undergraduate admissions, characterized the incoming class as evidence of university-wide recruitment efforts.
“These numbers reflect the incredible work happening across the University,” Rhine remarked. “Every student who chooses Immaculata becomes part of our community, and we are committed to providing an exceptional experience that prepares them for meaningful lives and careers.”
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