Exploring the Growing Gender Imbalance in College Enrollments

Women now outnumber men in college enrollment, leading to efforts to recruit more men and address gender imbalance.

April 24, 2025

An unexpected trend is unfolding on college campuses: women are now overwhelmingly outnumbering men in enrollment. The gender gap stands at about 60% women to 40% men, with the disparity widening. Men who do enroll are increasingly likely to drop out, furthering the divide.

The reasons for this trend are multifaceted. Boys typically receive lower grades than girls in early education and are more likely to face disciplinary actions or be held back. They graduate high school at lower rates, and many opt for skilled trades over college degrees.

Colleges are attempting to balance gender ratios by giving men an edge in admissions. However, this imbalance could impact men’s financial success and broader economic growth.

Colleges are exploring various strategies to address the issue. At the University of Montana, programs like forestry are being promoted to attract male students. Kelly Nolin, director of admissions, notes efforts to help men find community on campus.

The gender imbalance also affects college life, including the dating scene. Amber Turner, a freshman at Nova Southeastern University, observes that men have more dating options due to their scarcity.

The implications extend beyond social aspects, affecting economic prospects. Despite more women earning degrees, they often enter lower-paying fields, while men dominate lucrative disciplines like engineering.

Colleges are innovating to attract more men. The University of Vermont, for instance, runs an entrepreneurship competition, appealing to male high school students. Athletic programs also serve as a draw.

Richard Reeves, of the American Institute for Boys and Men, emphasizes that declining male enrollment in colleges wastes potential talent, impacting the economy and future family dynamics.

Political perceptions also play a role. Some men view colleges as “woke” or anti-male, particularly conservative individuals from rural areas, exacerbating enrollment declines.

Universities like Montana are countering these perceptions by hosting diverse speakers and highlighting appealing campus activities to attract a broader student demographic.