7 must-have features to look for in a CRM for Universities

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Growth doesn’t happen by accident. It’s planned.

And if you’ve been wondering how some universities across the MENA region are scaling enrollments, reducing dropout rates, and improving student experience, here’s the truth: They’ve all replaced their spreadsheets, generic CRMs, ERPs, and manual follow-ups with one tool built specifically for them.

A purpose-built CRM for universities.

The problem: Traditional tools are slowing you down

Most enrollment teams in MENA still run their admissions on a patchwork of spreadsheets, generic CRMs, and siloed tools.

At first, it may seem manageable. But as inquiry volumes increase, so do the cracks:

Missed follow-ups.
Delayed applications.
Disconnected communication.
No visibility across departments.

You’re hiring more people, working longer hours, but conversions aren’t improving.

This is exactly why universities are now switching to Meritto — a CRM for universities that is purpose-built to solve these problems at scale.

Why a CRM built for B2B sales won’t work for Higher Ed

Generic CRMs were built for B2B pipelines, not student journeys.

They weren’t made to handle application workflows, payment schedules, student portals, document verifications, or counselor routing.

But Meritto’s CRM for universities is different.

It understands that a student’s enrollment journey is not a sales deal — it’s a lifecycle. And every touchpoint matters.

So what makes Meritto the #1 CRM for Universities?

Let’s break it down.

1. Lead centralization across all channels

Whether inquiries come from your website, education fairs, Facebook ads, or walk-ins, Meritto captures them all.

No more juggling spreadsheets or losing leads to chaos.

2. Automated lead allocation based on logic

Distribute leads to counselors automatically, based on course, geography, language, or any logic you set. This ensures faster response times, better engagement, and zero lead leakage.

3. Omnichannel communication, all in one place

Engage every student with WhatsApp, email, SMS, or calls — all from one CRM screen. And yes, everything is tracked. So no message goes unanswered.

4. AI nudges to keep students moving

Meritto’s AI-based admission software doesn’t wait for you to remember. It sends nudges to counselors. Follows up with students. Flags dormant leads. Recommends actions. That means fewer drop-offs. And more conversions, even while you sleep.

5. Smart application workflows that work like clockwork

Students apply via a custom portal. They track their status, upload documents, and schedule interviews, all in one place. Meanwhile, your team can view everything in real-time. No back and forth. No delays.

6. In-built document verification + offer letter generation

Say goodbye to manual checks and PDF juggling. Meritto lets you verify documents online, define approval workflows, and even automate offer letter rollouts — with full compliance.

7. Real-time reporting to track what’s working

Want to know your best-performing source? Counselor productivity? Funnel drop-offs? Meritto’s 100+ advanced dashlets and visual reports give you that clarity — instantly.

What happens when you deploy a CRM for universities?

Here’s what MENA’s top universities are already experiencing:

Faster inquiry response time
Better counselor performance
Personalized student journeys
Fewer drop-offs in the admission funnel
Higher conversions at lower costs

And most importantly, admissions teams finally get their time back.

It’s not just a CRM. It’s your complete Enrollment OS.

Unlike traditional tools, Meritto isn’t just software. It’s a unified platform that brings marketing, admissions, finance, and counseling teams together — so they work in sync. It’s what makes it the most trusted CRM for universities across the region.

Final thought: You don’t need more leads. You need a better system.

Your team is working hard. The intent is there.

But without the right systems, you’re always playing catch-up.

The fastest-growing institutions in the MENA region have already made the switch. And they’re scaling, streamlining, and succeeding — without burning out their teams.

So ask yourself: Is your CRM built for the student journey?

If not, it’s time to switch to a CRM for universities, that is.

Ready to see Meritto in action?

Click to book a personalized walkthrough with our enrollment experts. Let’s show you how Meritto can help you attract, convert, and enroll more students — faster and smarter.

Schedule a personalized demo today