University of Illinois sees record freshmen enrollment this year

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has achieved a historic milestone with the enrollment of 9,008 first-year students for the current academic year, marking the largest freshmen class in its history. This surge in enrollment has contributed to a total student body of 59,238, which includes both on-campus and online students. Chancellor Robert J. Jones emphasized the university's commitment to excellence and the importance of supporting students in their academic journeys, ensuring they progress and graduate successfully. A significant portion of this year's freshmen, approximately 71%, hail from Illinois, representing a wide geographic diversity across 85 of the state's 102 counties. The remaining students come from 43 other states and territories, as well as 48 countries worldwide. This diverse student body reflects the university's appeal and its efforts to attract talent from various backgrounds. Notably, 22% of the incoming freshmen are first-generation college students, highlighting the university's role in providing opportunities for those who may not have a family history of higher education. Additionally, the university has seen a 19% increase in enrollment from underrepresented populations, with a 25% rise in Hispanic students and a 13% increase in African American students, showcasing its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Furthermore, the university has also set a record for graduate student enrollment, with 20,765 students pursuing advanced degrees. This growth in both undergraduate and graduate populations underscores the institution's reputation as a leading educational establishment and its ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive and supportive academic environment.