The Arkansas State University System has reported a 6.8% increase in preliminary fall enrollment over the previous year, with multiple institutions achieving record growth. This represents a rise of 2,069 students, bringing the system-wide total to 32,366 as of the 11th day of the semester.

“All seven of our institutions had an overall enrollment increase, including record enrollment for Arkansas State and a historic freshmen head count at Henderson State,” said ASU System President Todd Shields. “Our institutions continue to meet students’ diverse needs, from traditional campus experiences to workforce training and expanded online learning.”

Arkansas State University in Jonesboro posted a record enrollment of 18,775 students, a 4.7% increase from last fall's 17,926. The first-year class grew to 2,247 students, with more than 82%—or 1,851—hailing from Arkansas. Additionally, a record 1,576 freshmen are now living on campus. The total enrollment figure also reflects 1,062 students attending A-State's Queretaro campus in Mexico. Interim Chancellor Calvin White Jr. attributed the milestone to ongoing investments in programs and the dedication of university staff.

Henderson State University in Arkadelphia saw a 9.7% increase in total enrollment, which reached 2,465 students. Notably, first-time freshmen enrollment surged 33% to 740, while on-campus residential enrollment rose 21% to 1,324 students. "These numbers reinforce that our campus community is thriving," said Henderson Chancellor Trey Berry. "It’s a testament to the team effort here and their genuine care for students.”

The system also reported substantial growth in high school partnerships, with total high school student enrollment increasing 16.5% to 6,579. Shields noted that this growth aligns with goals set by the Arkansas ACCESS Act and the administration of Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders to strengthen collaborations with state high schools.

All five of ASU’s two-year institutions showed gains: - ASU-Beebe: 3,890 students, up 8.4%. - ASU-Newport: 2,235 students, up 6%. - ASU-Mountain Home: 1,363 students, up 4%. - ASU Mid-South: 1,205 students, up 3%. - ASU Three Rivers: 2,433 students, up 24.9%.

ASU-Mountain Home, which began its classes later than the other campuses, expects to finalize its numbers by September 8. Final enrollment figures will be submitted to the Arkansas Division of Higher Education later this month.