Mississippi Public Universities See Nearly 3% Enrollment Increase in 2025

Mississippi's public universities experienced nearly 3% enrollment growth in fall 2025, with total student enrollment reaching 81,961 compared to 79,817 in 2024. The University of Mississippi set a record for the third consecutive year with 28,405 students across its campuses, driven by a 5.2% increase and a freshman class representing all Mississippi counties, states, and multiple countries. Mississippi State University also broke enrollment records, with a 12.6% surge in first-time students and total enrollment rising to 23,563, bolstered by strategic recruitment and partnerships aimed at workforce development. Other institutions such as Delta State and Mississippi State University for Women saw significant increases, while Alcorn State University was the only one to see a decline. The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning and state officials highlighted the growing confidence in the university system, supported by investments from the legislature and governor. These trends reflect a statewide momentum in higher education enrollment despite national declines, emphasizing the universities' commitment to academic excellence and student success.