This session will explore real-world examples of how Western Connecticut State University (WCSU) is using advanced analytics to increase yield rates and optimize financial aid awards, identifying and nurturing best-fit candidates. WCSU's success from 2023 to 2024 includes impressive results: a 20.7% increase in first-year class size, a 2% reduction in the discount rate, an increase in net tuition revenue by over $2 million, and a 1% improvement in the yield-on-acceptance rate. The session will demonstrate the transformative potential of AI in strategic financial aid distribution, explaining how to leverage this tool as a strategic partner to achieve enrollment goals and expand access to higher education. It will close with a discussion on the ethics of using AI in financial aid strategy, future plans for WCSU and Liaison, and an audience Q&A.

• Attend this session to learn how WCSU successfully used advanced analytics to boost yield rates and optimize financial aid.

• Expect to gain insights into the transformative role of AI in strategic financial aid distribution and enrollment management.

• Discover the ethical considerations of using AI for financial aid strategy and how it can enhance access to higher education.