Missouri State University set new enrollment records for the system and Springfield campus this fall. System enrollment increased from 26,874 to 27,235. Enrollment on the Springfield campus increased from 25,038 to 25,238.

Growth in dual enrollment and transfer students, along with stable retention, are the leading factors for this success. Dual enrollment increased 9.1% to 7,778 students. First-time transfer students increased 2.8% to 1,342.

Enrollment on the West Plains campus is up 2.8% to 1,997. Census day was Sept. 22.

The number of Missourians attending Mo State also increased from 20,699 to 21,266.

“Missouri State is delivering for the state,” said President Richard B. Williams. “As we implement our strategic plan, ‘Igniting Opportunity,’ and develop a strategic enrollment management (SEM) plan, we’re strengthening the pathways that matter — dual enrollment with our high school partners, seamless transfer opportunities and affordable access for students across Missouri.”

Enrollment plan will target strategic areas for growth

A decrease in international students contributed to a drop at the graduate level of 8%. International students comprise 5.7% of total enrollment, down from 6.9% last fall. Doctoral program development, workforce development and adult student re-engagement will be areas of emphasis in the SEM plan.

“While we serve more Missourians, we’re expanding our recruitment of out-of-state students and making Missouri State more transfer-friendly for community college students and returning adults,” said Dawn Medley, vice president for enrollment management. “We’re also refining scholarships and aid to build on the MoState Access Award so more students can afford to finish what they start.”

Improving retention for all students is also a focus in the strategic plan. Retention remained stable overall at 76%.

“Faculty and advisors are focused on student success and retention in every college,” said Provost Dr. Clarenda Philips. “As we expand doctoral offerings and enhance academic support, we’re aligning programs with workforce needs and building clearer pathways from undergraduate to graduate study.”

Apply and visit

High school seniors are encouraged to apply for admission early in their senior year and to be aware of scholarship application deadlines.

New Missouri undergraduate students eligible for Pell Grants will not pay any tuition or fees at Missouri State. The MoState Access Award will cover all tuition and fees that are not covered by other scholarships and grants. Eligible students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by Feb. 1 and apply for admission by June 1 (for the fall 2026 semester).

Prospective students are encouraged to visit campus. The university will host Showcase, a special open house for prospective students, on Oct. 25.