USI sees increases in key enrollment segments, continues focus on growth
The University of Southern Indiana saw increases across several key enrollment segments, including gains in new first-time graduate students, international students, Hispanic students and dual credit.
"While we are optimistic about these areas of growth, we continue to take a thoughtful and proactive approach to strengthening enrollment,” said Steven J. Bridges, USI President. “Through the work of new enrollment-focused committees and University-wide planning efforts, we are examining how we recruit, retain and support students at every stage of their educational journey.”
Overall enrollment, including undergraduate, graduate and dual-credit students increased to 9,444 this fall, up 0.48% from fall 2025. A growing Hispanic population increasingly is choosing USI first with an 8.67% surge in Hispanic students. International enrollment is up as well by 1.65%.
The Fall 2026 entering class includes 1,307 first-time freshmen. Freshman enrollment remains near the stronger levels achieved during the University's recent period of growth.
Graduate enrollment totals 1,855 students pursuing advanced degrees, including an increase of 4.07% in new first-time graduate students.
This fall, 2,296 students are enrolled in dual-credit coursework through the College Achievement Program (CAP), and High School Agreement (HSAG), which continue to provide Indiana high school students with opportunities to earn college credit while completing their high school education. Dual credit enrollment is up 6.25% from fall 2025.
Student success measures also remain steady. Retention from first to second year remains stable at 71.3%. The University's four-year and six-year graduation rates are projected to remain consistent with recent performance.
"Our student success indicators reflect that students are engaged with their coursework, making progress toward their degrees and benefiting from the resources and opportunities designed to support their success," said Dr. Shelly Blunt, Provost.
USI's students represent 89 Indiana counties, 48 states and 40 countries. In-state students account for 74.96% of enrollment, while 25.04% come from outside Indiana or from countries around the world.