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The University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire’s decision to join the Universities of Wisconsin Direct
Admit program marks an exciting opportunity for both the university and the Eau Claire business
community. Beginning with the fall 2026 incoming class, local high school students will have
access to a simplified college admissions process designed to remove barriers and help more
students pursue higher education.

“The purpose of Direct Admit was really to engage with students who probably were thinking,
‘College is not for me,’” explained UW–Eau Claire’s Vice Chancellor, Billy Felz. “It literally
removed all the barriers and said college is for you.”. The program ultimately aims to make college more accessible; it could also create new opportunities for local businesses. While more applications do not necessarily mean a larger incoming class, the increase could bring more prospective students and their families to Eau Claire to explore the campus and community.

“When I talk with incoming freshmen about what helped them make the decision to come to
UW–Eau Claire, they tell me, ‘As soon as I stepped foot on campus, I just knew this was the
place I had to be at,’” Vice Chancellor Felz said. Those campus visits can create economic benefits throughout the community. Families traveling to Eau Claire may stay in local hotels, dine at restaurants, visit coffee shops, and explore local retailers and attractions. For businesses, these visits offer an opportunity to make a positive first impression on prospective students and their families.

Additionally, Vice Chancellor Felz emphasized that attracting students requires more than an
excellent university. “If we have a great community and a great university, that’s really going to
help us win in the Direct Admit landscape,” he explained. This creates an opportunity for UW–Eau Claire, the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce, and local businesses to draw possible students to the area. By highlighting the area’s cultural attractions, outdoor recreation, entertainment, and welcoming business community, Eau Claire can strengthen its appeal to students considering where to spend the next four years of their lives. The long-term benefits could extend beyond campus visits. Attracting and retaining students can help strengthen the regional talent pipeline, support local employers, and encourage graduates to build their careers in the Chippewa Valley.

UW–Eau Claire’s participation in Direct Admit is more than a change to the college admissions
process. It is an opportunity for the university and local businesses to work together to showcase
Eau Claire as a place where students can learn, live, work, and build a future.

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