Since 2010, Ariste professionals worked with over 20 not-for-profit and for-profit postsecondary schools; we are acutely aware of the opportunities and challenges facing postsecondary education institutions.
Student demand and enrollments have been declining over the last ten years.
population declines are not expected to improve.
FAFSAS are down, transfers are down and stop outs are up.
COVID-19 accelerated the implementation of online education.
School operating costs are increasing.
Schools are focused on retention and diversifying revenue.
The most troubled schools will continue to close, and the attractive schools will continue consolidating.
Postsecondary Schools that annually struggle to balance budgets need a focused plan to turn the corner.
ADMISSIONS FUNNEL
THERE ARE FOUR
AREAS THAT WILL
PROVIDE THE
HIGHEST IMPACT
Enrollments
Small improvements in digital marketing management will increase the number of applicants and increase conversions to enrollments that will yield significant revenue and profit.
A high-touch admissions process using CRM messaging capabilities and mobile phone applications will increase enrollments.
Retention and Outcomes
Creating an accountable culture for student retention and student outcomes across the entire Administration, Faculty, Student Services and Auxiliary Services will make the institution more financially stable.
Student retention is typically the biggest financial opportunity for schools because the improvement is all profit.
Innovative Programs
Create new programs without carrying the total cost by participating in cost sharing consortiums with other schools.
Develop hybrid programs and pathways with Online and In Person formats.
Design popular programs for adult learners and corporate training.
productivity
Find opportunities to increase the productivity of current program offerings based on a fully loaded cost analysis.
Re-evaluate contracts for facilities, food service and security to align the spending with the school’s required levels of service.
Zero based budgeting helps remove spending that is no longer needed.
Colleges and universities
Does your school need an objective assessment?
Are budgets approved with operating deficits?
Do you need to restructure the school's debt?
Is your school attractive to strategic partners?
Ariste Advisors helps the Board of Trustees and Administration do the analysis and work through their fiduciary duty and exercise of business judgment.
Companies, sponsors
AND Lenders
Is run-rate EBITDA below the YTD Budget?
Are you facing a covenant default?
Do you need to restructure debt?
Do you need M&A support?
Does your lender group want boots on the ground?
With Ariste Advisors, your interests are our obligation.
