IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) is experiencing strong early momentum in spring enrollment, with increases in both student headcount and total credits compared to the same time last year.

As of January 26th, 1,944 students are enrolled for Spring 2026, representing a 7.3% increase year over year. Those students have registered for 17,415 credits, a 4.7% increase compared to last spring.

These figures represent preliminary enrollment and are expected to continue growing. CEI is still enrolling students in Block B courses, and Early College has one additional trimester remaining. Based on current trends, the college anticipates surpassing Spring 2025’s final totals of 2,488 students and 18,157 credits.

Early College enrollment continues to be a major driver of this growth. Each year, more high schools and teachers choose to align dual credit courses with CEI, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school.

“CEI has built a strong reputation for high-quality coursework, rigorous academic expectations, and exceptional student support,” said Mary Stephenson, Associate Vice President of K–14 & Rural Initiatives. “Our teams regularly visit classrooms and schools to help students understand how their hard work in high school can translate into clear educational pathways after graduation.”

In addition to enrollment growth, CEI continues to focus on supporting students throughout their educational journey. Academic advising and campus-wide support services play a key role in helping students stay motivated and progress toward completion.

“We are excited and deeply proud of how CEI continues to remove barriers and help support students’ motivation to continue their educational journey,” said Josh Peterson, Director of Virtual Campus and Advising. “This work, led by our academic advising team and strengthened by campus-wide resources from many departments, helps every student feel valued, supported, and capable of success.”

College of Eastern Idaho will continue monitoring enrollment as additional courses and Early College sections begin later in the semester.