How Oglethorpe University Boosted Awareness and Yield with Intersect
- type
- Private, Liberal Arts School
- location
- Atlanta, GA
- undergraduates
- 1,500
Impact Highlights
37%
increase in Seniors considering Oglethorpe on Naviance year-over-year
12
states saw at least twice as many students considering Oglethorpe in Naviance in 2025 compared to the previous year
6x
considerations in Oglethorpe’s local markets in 2025 vs. 2024
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Challenge
As a small enrollment team, Oglethorpe University sought to scale its reach in its local market (and beyond) while recuperating from 2024’s disorderedly FAFSA rollout. With a significant percentage of its prospective student population using Naviance and a growing number of students admitted through direct admissions, the university wanted to optimize their presence on Naviance and put engaging, accurate information about Oglethorpe in front of students during their college search
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Solution
Partnering with EAB through Intersect, Oglethorpe enhanced its digital presence on Naviance and expanded its impact across the enrollment funnel:
- Expanded its Intersect profile with program info, messaging, and photo/video assets. Oglethorpe regularly refreshes these assets to deliver a consistent, authentic story about their school and campus.
- Added an Appily Tour to their profile to provide prospective students with an immersive, personalized campus preview.
- Leveraged competitor messaging within advanced awareness campaigns to differentiate Oglethorpe in crowded markets.
- Coordinated admissions counselor visits to high schools and recruiting events using RepVisits in Intersect
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Impact
Oglethorpe has seen strong early results from its expanded Intersect strategy. In the past cycle, the university recorded its highest application volume in over a decade, with Naviance contributing to this success. Student interest in Oglethorpe has surged, with a 37% year-over-year increase in “considerations” (students shortlisting the institution on Naviance). Growth has been particularly strong in Atlanta, while new markets beyond the region are also showing momentum. Of note, 41% of applications sourced through Naviance were direct-admit eligible, indicating that students are likely using Intersect as a trusted research tool after gaining admission. By pairing direct admissions with a stronger digital presence in Naviance enabled by Intersect, Oglethorpe is ensuring that students admitted early in the funnel remain engaged and choose Oglethorpe over competing institutions.