University of Alabama sets fall enrollment and National Merit Scholars record

The University of Alabama is setting all kinds of enrollment records this fall.

Let’s take an inside look at the latest numbers:

According to UA, 38,645 students are enrolled this fall topping the previous record of 38,563 set in 2017. 

The record enrollment was boosted by the largest freshman class in the University’s history with 8,037 students. Those numbers were powered by an increase of freshmen coming from the state of Alabama. For the 4th consecutive year, the number of in-state first year students to the Capstone has increased, totaling  2,987.

1088 National Merit Scholars

In addition to the record numbers of students, this fall there are also 1,088 students recognized as National Merit Scholars, the most ever to attend the Capstone and 16% more than a year ago. The freshman class alone includes 322 National Merit Scholars, a 15% increase from last year.

“The University of Alabama experience is continuing to draw diverse, talented students from all over the state, nation and world,” said UA President Stuart R. Bell. “As high achieving students graduate and begin their careers or further their education, they demonstrate the incredible value of a UA degree. The many who do so by remaining in Alabama are critical to growing and strengthening our local and state economies.”

More Positive Numbers

Across the board, the University is growing and setting records..

This 2022-23 academic year, the University will welcome a record number — 8,542 — ethnic and racial minorities students, a more than 2% increase from last year. 

This includes an all-time high of 4,344 Black students and 2,138 Hispanic students. The freshman class, too, set enrollment records for all three groups.

One final list of numbers: Students from all 67 of Alabama’s counties, all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia AND 88 countries attend UA in Tuscaloosa.

The University also educates and graduates more students than any university in the state, awarding more than 9,300 degrees over the past year.

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