‘Enrolment' vs 'Enrollment': What's the Difference?

By Shanea Patterson, updated on December 7, 2022

Not sure whether to spell the word ‘enrollment/enrolment’ with one ‘l’ or two? We can help you spell it correctly in your writing. You’ll also learn how to use it correctly in a sentence, among other things.

Ready for the answer now? The correct answer is that ‘enrollment’ is the correct way to spell the word in American English. ‘Enrolment’ is acceptable in British American English.

Enrol vs. Enroll

If you’re writing for an American audience, ‘enroll’ is the better spelling to use.

Enrollment vs. Enrollment – What’s the Difference?

Just like with ‘enrol’ and ‘enroll,’ the version with two ‘l’s’ is more appropriate for American English writing, while ‘enrol’ and ‘enrolment’ are better for British American writing.

Let’s define the word, so we know exactly how to use it in a sentence correctly. Then, we’ll take a look at some examples.

Definition and Meaning

The Merriam-Webster definition of the word is: “to insert, register, or enter in a list, catalog, or roll,” “to prepare a final perfect copy of (a bill passed by a legislature) in written or printed form,” and “to roll or wrap up.”

As an intransitive verb, the definition is: “to enroll oneself or cause oneself to be enrolled.”

The Cambridge definition of the word is: “the act of putting yourself or someone else onto the official list of members of a class, college or university, or group.

A few synonyms of the word include:

  • Inscribe
  • Register
  • List
  • Matriculate

Using ‘Enrollment’ in a Sentence 

Now that we know a little bit more about the word, we can take a look at how to use it in a sentence correctly.

Here are a few examples of how to do that:

  • Enrollment for my local college is now open.
  • The enrollment period has passed. You’ll have to start next semester.
  • This is the highest level of enrollment we’ve seen at our country club since it was established.
  • Enrollment numbers are down compared to this time last year.
  • We’ve got high enrollment numbers for our STEM after-school program.
  • It seems the majority of our enrollment is women.

Concluding Thoughts on ‘Enrolment’ and ‘Enrollment’

To recap, we learned that ‘enrolment’ is the British English spelling of the word and ‘enrollment’ is the American English spelling of the word.

Remembering the American and British spellings of multiple words can be tricky. But you can always pop on back over to refresh your memory anytime you need to. We've got an entire library of content dedicated to explaining confusing words and phrases you might come across when learning English for the first time.

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook. Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

Written By:
Shanea Patterson
Shanea Patterson is a writer based in New York and loves writing for brands big and small. She has a master's degree in professional writing from New York University and a bachelor's degree in English from Mercy College.

Add new comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

WritingTips.org Newsletter
Receive information on
new articles posted, important topics, and tips.
Join Now
We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.
magnifier