Tuscaloosa, Alabama, September 23, 2025
News Summary
The University of Alabama has set a new record with 42,360 students enrolled for the fall semester. This marks the fifth consecutive year of enrollment growth, driven by a significant increase in in-state students and the incoming freshman class, which includes 362 National Merit Scholars. Additionally, the university’s graduate enrollment has also seen an uptick. This trend underscores UA’s commitment to providing quality education and fostering future leaders.
Tuscaloosa, Alabama — The University of Alabama (UA) has achieved a historic milestone by recording an enrollment of 42,360 students for the fall 2025 semester, as announced on September 15, 2025. This figure surpasses the previous record of 40,846 students set in 2024.
This 2025 academic year marks the fifth consecutive year of record enrollment at UA. The most recent decline in enrollment was noted in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to surpassing enrollment numbers, there has been a notable increase in in-state student enrollment, which rose by more than 4% compared to the previous year.
The incoming freshman class at UA is also marked by excellence, including a record 362 National Merit Scholars, a significant 37.1% increase from the previous year. This promising trend reflects the university’s focus on nurturing a student-centered experience that cultivates future leaders in Alabama and beyond.
Students from all 67 counties in Alabama are enrolled at UA, which has also attracted students from all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and 92 countries globally. This diverse student population highlights the university’s broad appeal and commitment to quality education.
Recent Enrollment Trends
UA’s growth has been significant over the past two decades; around 20 years ago, enrollment was approximately 19,000 students. Since 2015, enrollment has increased by about 10%, with the notable exception of the 2020 dip. Despite the overall growth, there has been a 2% decrease in out-of-state student enrollment, which now stands at 54%.
Initiatives and Facilities Enhancements
To support this growing enrollment, UA has prioritized recruiting in-state students significantly. One of the initiatives includes partnerships with the Small Town and Rural Student (STARS) College Network, designed to reach students in less populated areas. The unveiling of the Randall Welcome Center in 2024 has also greatly enhanced the overall recruitment experience for prospective students.
Early College Program and Graduate Enrollment
Enrollment among high school students in the Early College program has surged by 30.8% this year, following a 90% decrease in Early College tuition announced in May. Furthermore, in a noteworthy trend, enrollment of students under the age of 18 has increased by approximately 32% compared to the previous year.
On the graduate level, enrollment has reached 6,200 students, marking a 4% increase from 2024. This growth in both undergraduate and graduate enrollments showcases UA’s expanding influence and the ongoing demand for its educational programs.
Conclusion
As the University of Alabama continues to break enrollment records, it remains steadfast in its commitment to provide quality education and enhance the student experience. This upward trajectory underscores UA’s role in shaping the workforce and leadership of the future, meeting both local and national needs.
FAQ
What is the record enrollment number for the University of Alabama in Fall 2025?
The University of Alabama announced a record enrollment of 42,360 students for the fall 2025 semester.
How does Fall 2025’s enrollment compare to previous years?
This enrollment figure surpasses the previous record of 40,846 students set in 2024.
When was the last decrease in enrollment at the University of Alabama?
The last enrollment decrease was recorded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What initiatives are in place to recruit in-state students?
UA has prioritized recruiting in-state students, with initiatives including partnerships with the Small Town and Rural Student (STARS) College Network.
Key Features of UA’s Enrollment
| Feature | Fall 2025 Data |
|---|---|
| Record Enrollment | 42,360 students |
| In-state Enrollment Increase | More than 4% |
| National Merit Scholars | 362 |
| Increase in Early College Enrollment | 30.8% |
| Graduate Enrollment | 6,200 students |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Tuscaloosa News: UA Achieves Record Enrollment
- Wikipedia: University of Alabama
- ABC3340: UA Hits Record Student Enrollment
- Google Search: University of Alabama record enrollment
- CBS42: UA Announces Record Enrollment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University
- AL.com: UA Breaks Enrollment Records
- Google News: University of Alabama enrollment
- Tuscaloosa Thread: Alabama Enrolls Over 42,000 Students
- Google Scholar: University of Alabama enrollment
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
