(MURRAY, Ky.) – Murray State University enrolled 9,932 students this fall, marking its second-largest student body in eight years and continuing a pattern of growth across several key categories, according to enrollment data released by the institution.
The fall enrollment includes 8,217 undergraduate students and 1,715 graduate students representing 116 Kentucky counties, 49 states and 60 countries.
Over a seven-year period, the university has seen significant increases in first-time freshmen (up 13.3%), first-time graduate students (nearly 20% increase), international students (165% increase) and total enrollment (5% increase).
The university’s first-to-second year retention rate reached 78%, its highest mark in five years. The 1,493-member freshman class includes the largest number of students from Murray State’s 18-county primary service region in six years.
Thirteen percent of incoming freshmen were high school valedictorians, the highest percentage in seven years. Additionally, 70% of freshmen arrived with earned college credit hours, a university record.
“This momentum is not accidental in nature,” University President Dr. Ron Patterson said in a statement. “We are very appreciative of countless individuals both within the University and beyond who are leaders in student recruitment and retention.”
Patterson emphasized that student learning, access, affordability and quality remain central to the university’s mission.
Murray State has received its 35th consecutive year of top-tier rankings from U.S. News & World Report and has been recognized for value and quality by Washington Monthly, Wall Street Journal, Niche and Colleges of Distinction.
The university reports that 44% of its students are first generation, and it has earned Military Friendly designation. According to recent data, Murray State awards $136 million annually in financial aid and scholarships, with 99% of freshmen receiving scholarship or financial aid support.
Applications for fall 2026 admission are currently being accepted at admissions.murraystate.edu. Prospective students can schedule campus visits by calling 270-809-2896 or emailing msu.recruitment@murraystate.edu.
