Growing from strength to strength with the University. From its inception in 2007 INTO Newcastle University has proven itself to be an invaluable addition to the university campus, and the community at large. The INTO centre has enjoyed significant growth in terms of student enrollment, staff complement, as well as the enhancement in the range of programmes offered and investment in on-campus facilities. The Pre-Sessional English student numbers alone saw an incredible 101% increase in students in just two years. 600 INTO students progressed to Newcastle University in 2008/9 at a student retention rate of 97 per cent and a pass rate of 88 per cent. A recent review undertaken with the Business School confirmed that INTO students were making better initial progress than directly admitted international students. With the growth of the INTO centre, as well as the improvement of INTO students came a 45% increase in centre staff from mid 2008 to mid 2009. Revenue continues to increase, and INTO is integral in helping Newcastle University achieve its goal of a 25% international student body. Since the centre's launch, Newcastle University has seen an increase in international student population of 74% overall. The new £50 million facility will only increase the appeal of INTO Newcastle University for new students.