As a result of multiple cuts in state funding, Oakland University's Admissions Office is limiting the number of new freshmen to the 2003 level.
   

"With declining state appropriations, we have to be very careful that student enrollment does not outstrip our ability to deliver the high-quality education and support services for which we are known," said OU President Gary Russi. "It is important to add as much resources as possible to critical areas to preserve quality in times of budget stress.
    

"The move is intended only to slow the rate of growth – the entire university will continue to grow overall – and we will assess the success of the limit on a year-to-year basis."

The new limit has been shared with admitted students and their parents, high school counselors and principals.
    

"Once the freshman class reaches the 2003 level, admitted applicants will be placed on a waiting list," said Pete Nacy, director of Admissions. "We are encouraging admitted students to sign up for orientation as quickly as possible."
    

The OU Admissions Office already has experienced a 40-percent increase in orientation sign-ups over the same period last year.

In response to market demand, Oakland's enrollment has grown nearly 26 percent over the past 10 years, from 13,165 students in fall 1994 to 16,576 in 2003.