Oklahoma State University welcomed its largest, most diverse freshman class in history. With 4,668-plus first-time freshmen enrolled, the class of 2026 eclipses previous records and represents an increase of more than 9% over last year’s freshman enrollment for the fall semester. The OSU Honors College also set a new enrollment record for the second consecutive year with 3,096 total enrollees. Other notable highlights include online enrollment, which increased nearly 26% compared to last year, and enrollment in STEM programs, which increased more than 11% compared to 2021, besting the previous record established in 2017. New enrollment of first-generation students has risen more than 7%, and the number of OSU freshmen emerging from the top 5% of their high school class reached a new record, leaping 2% over the previous record established last fall. Transfer student enrollment also saw an increase. Year-to-year retention totals have hit a new high, as well, and OSU has posted its second highest retention rate on record, with nearly 84% of students returning to enroll at OSU and a record number of new students returning for their second year. OSU’s total enrollment for the fall semester is up 4% over last year — 24,692 students — and includes students from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and 113 countries. “We were expecting to have record-setting freshman enrollment this semester, but to surpass the previous record by more than 375 students is truly remarkable,” OSU President Kayse Shrum said. “This historic milestone is a testament to the strength of our academic programs, dedicated faculty and staff, and our unwavering commitment to provide a world-class education that empowers our students to learn, grow and succeed. It’s a great time to be a Cowboy."
