Building Connections in Graduate Education
New pathways help graduate programs reach best-fit students and streamline the path from interest to application.
In a strategic move to improve graduate education enrollment processes, Liaison, a leader in higher education application solutions, is joining forces with Niche, a top platform connecting students and families with ideal educational institutions. Together, they are aiming to enable graduate programs to attract more qualified interest from students and convert that interest into completed applications.
This collaboration is particularly focused on creating seamless connections between students looking for graduate programs and application submissions via Liaison's Centralized Application Services (CAS), which include platforms like GradCAS, BusinessCAS, and EngineeringCAS. By integrating resources from both organizations, graduate institutions can enhance their outreach, attract better-suited prospective students, and foster growth in their application numbers.
As institutions find themselves under pressure to expand, it becomes crucial to effectively transform student interest into actual applications. Todd Abbott, Vice President of Business Development at Liaison, emphasizes the importance of this partnership by stating, "Graduate programs are under increasing pressure to grow, yet too often student interest doesn't translate into completed applications. This partnership with Niche is designed to close that gap by helping institutions reach more qualified prospects and making it easier for students to move from discovery to applying through Liaison's graduate application services."
Program Benefits
At launch, graduate programs that participate will receive several essential benefits:
Complimentary Premium Profiles
Institutions will have access to complimentary Niche Premium Profiles, allowing them to showcase their unique offerings and enhance visibility among prospective applicants.
Fee Waivers
Niche graduate program clients who opt to join a CAS can also enjoy waivers for implementation and annual membership fees, easing the financial burden while enabling access to these valuable services.
These strategic initiatives are designed to help institutions deliver qualified engagement without adding layers of operational complexity or technical dependence for their enrollment teams.
Enhancing the Student Experience
Mark Eshelman, EVP of Sales at Niche, shares insights on the collaboration, stating, "Niche helps students find graduate programs where they can thrive while helping institutions connect with students who are genuinely interested. Partnering with Liaison ensures that interest is met with clarity and momentum—so students know what to do next, and institutions engage earlier with applicants who are ready to apply." This shared dedication aims to provide students with clear directions, making the application process more accessible and less daunting.
About Liaison and Niche
About Liaison
Liaison stands as a technology leader in the higher education space, supporting over 1,500 institutions both nationwide and internationally. For more than 35 years, they have offered purpose-built technology alongside consultative expertise that drives sustainable enrollment success, supported by dedicated assistance from the planning stages through implementation and beyond.
About Niche
Niche is revolutionizing how students and families assess and choose their most suitable educational institutions. Each year, over 70 million individuals utilize Niche's comprehensive school profiles, rankings, reviews, and search tools to make informed decisions about their education. Additionally, their innovative Direct Admissions program facilitates opportunities for students, offering acceptance and scholarships based on the informative profiles provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of the Liaison and Niche partnership?
The partnership aims to connect graduate programs with ideal students, streamline the application process, and boost enrollment.
What services do the CAS like GradCAS provide?
Centralized Application Services like GradCAS simplify applications by allowing students to apply to multiple programs through one platform.
Are there any costs for universities participating in this partnership?
Initially, beneficiaries will receive waivers for implementation and membership fees, minimizing costs for institutions.
How does this partnership benefit students?
Students will gain enhanced clarity throughout the application process and easier access to programs that fit their aspirations.
Who can benefit from the services offered by Liaison and Niche?
Graduate institutions seeking to grow enrollment and students looking for suitable graduate programs can both benefit significantly.
