Illinois State University reports largest freshman class in 36 years

Posted on September 7, 2023
This year’s class came into college with an average 3.64 GPA in high school, with over 1,000 of the students having earned a 4.0 or better. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By WMBD News

NORMAL – Welcoming 4,417 freshmen to the school this fall, Illinois State University said Thursday it is the largest class the university has seen in the last 36 years.

“We are excited to welcome another large, diverse, and academically talented incoming class for the 2023-2024 academic year,” said Interim President Aondover Tarhule.

The university said the freshman class continues the trend of classes with strong academic profiles. This year’s class came into college with an average 3.64 GPA in high school, with over 1,000 of the students having earned a 4.0 or better.

With a four percent increase in new freshmen, the trend of strong overall enrollment for the university continues, according to its fall 10-day enrollment numbers.

The total enrollment for the school is 20,989, which is a 1.5 percent increase.

“Illinois State’s continued strong enrollment is a testament to the University’s high quality academic programs, individualized attention, and commitment to student success,” said Tarhule. “Students and their families recognize these elements combine to make a first-rate college experience.”

ISU said the student body is becoming more diverse as 41% of the freshmen come from traditionally underrepresented groups. In total, 32% of the entire student population comes from traditionally underrepresented groups.

Illinois State University listed its total enrollment for Fall 2023:

  • Total: 20,989
  • Freshmen: 4,147
  • Transfer students: 1,814
  • Undergraduate students: 18,450
  • Graduate students: 2,539
  • International students: 744

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