September 12, 2006 > Fall Enrollment at Ohlone

Classes began at Ohlone College on Monday, August 28 for the newly implemented 16-week-long semester. By the following Thursday, Full Time Student Enrollment (FTES) was 3,285, up10.6% from last year. FTES is the number used to determine budget allocations from the state. This number differs from unduplicated headcount, the total number of individuals registered at Ohlone, taking at least one class. Unduplicated head count is also up 3.43% to 9,287.

If these figures remain solid, Ohlone is quickly approaching its largest fall term enrollment ever. Along with many other community colleges around the state, Ohlone saw a drop in enrollment two years ago that coincided with a state-mandated increase in tuition from students. Ohlone has worked hard to bring that number back to the level of 2003.

Increased financial aid awards have helped offset the financial burden experienced by the state's tuition increase. California Board of Governors awards increased by 11%; Pell Grant awards increased by 6%; and Cal Grant awards increased by an amazing 21%. In addition, the state agreed to roll back tuitions, beginning Spring 2007. Fees will drop 20%, from $26 per unit to $20 per unit.