JACKSONVILLE, AL — Jacksonville State University has reached a new all-time enrollment record for the sixth consecutive year, with 10,433 students enrolled for the Fall 2026 semester.
The total surpasses the university’s previous record of 10,339 students in Fall 2025 and marks the eighth consecutive year of enrollment growth at Jax State.
Since Fall 2018, enrollment has increased from 8,479 students to 10,433, representing an increase of more than 1,950 students. The university surpassed the 10,000-student mark for the first time in Fall 2025.
“This sustained growth reflects the confidence students and families continue to place in Jax State and the work our faculty and staff are doing every day to provide an exceptional student experience,” President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth Jr. said. “While we are proud to see Jax State continue to grow, our focus remains on providing the personal connections, opportunities and sense of community that make this university special. Our students remain at the center of everything we do.”
The Fall 2026 enrollment includes 1,813 first-time freshmen, an increase of 172 students, or approximately 10.5%, compared with Fall 2025. The university reported 9,090 undergraduate students and 1,343 graduate students this fall.
The enrollment increase coincides with the addition of new academic programs and investments in campus facilities. This fall, Jax State welcomed the first students into its new Bachelor of Science in Aviation and Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship programs.
“Our continued growth is a reflection of the experience students find at Jax State,” said Dr. Jessica Wiggins, vice president for Enrollment Management. “Students are looking for a university where they can find outstanding academic opportunities, meaningful connections and a community invested in their success. Eight consecutive years of growth demonstrate that students continue to see Jax State as that place.”
The university has also expanded its residential capacity. West Village opened this fall, adding more than 700 beds to on-campus housing. Other recent campus investments have focused on academics, student life and the arts.
Applications are currently open for Spring 2027 and Fall 2027. Prospective students can find additional information about academic programs and admissions through Jacksonville State University.
