Multiple Colleges Report Record Freshman Enrollment Growth

Several colleges across the U.S. are experiencing significant enrollment growth and record-breaking freshman classes. Northeast Community College reported a 7% increase in total headcount, marking its fourth consecutive year of growth, with its largest first-time freshman class in over a decade. The Hope Collegiate Academy in Arkansas also welcomed its largest sophomore class since 2018, highlighting the success of its early college program that allows high school students to earn an Associate of Arts Degree alongside their diploma. The University of South Alabama saw its largest freshman class in history, with total enrollment rising to 14,285 students, a 30% increase in freshman enrollment over three years, and notable growth in various academic colleges. The university's incoming class is also academically talented, with an average high school GPA of 3.75, and the number of students living on campus reached a historic high of nearly 3,000. These enrollment surges reflect strong recruitment efforts, expanding educational opportunities, and partnerships that support student success.