Murray State University鈥檚 preliminary fall 2026 enrollment data shows growth and momentum
By MSU Public Relations | Sep 8, 2026
MURRAY, Ky. 鈥� Preliminary enrollment data in several key categories reflect continued increases and positive momentum at Murray State University for the 2026-27 academic year, which began on Aug. 18.
Based on University data as of September 8, 2026, this year鈥檚 entering freshman class of 1,523 students is the third largest over the past decade (a 2.2% increase over last fall鈥檚 freshman class), and holds the highest average high school GPA in the past decade. The University is experiencing an increasing number of entering freshmen who are residents of neighboring states such as Illinois, Tennessee, Missouri and Indiana.
Enrollment in the University鈥檚 Racer Academy dual credit program for high school students reflects a 13.6% increase from the previous year.
Murray State鈥檚 overall current enrollment of 9,982 students reflects a 1.1% increase from last fall. Student credit hours are ahead of last year at this time as well. Students come from 49 states, 54 countries and 114 Kentucky counties, and 40% are first generation college students.
Student progression and success metrics also reflect continued positive momentum. The University鈥檚 first-time, full-time freshmen retention rate has risen to 80.4%, with a persistence rate of 92% for first-time freshmen.
The official 2026-27 final enrollment report will be completed later this fall.
鈥淭hese preliminary results are very encouraging and reflect the positive momentum we are seeing at Murray State University,鈥� President Dr. Ron K. Patterson said. 鈥淚 am especially grateful to our enrollment management team for their tremendous work and commitment to recruiting and supporting our students, as well as to our faculty, staff, students, alumni, community partners and the entire Racer family who continue to support our recruitment initiatives. These results demonstrate the strength of our collective efforts, and this is truly an exciting time to be a Racer. We remain focused on providing an exceptional experience for our students to succeed and thrive.鈥�
Admission for the fall 2027 semester and 2027-28 academic year at Murray State University
is now open. Students interested in joining the Racer family can learn more as well
as schedule a campus visit at , calling the Office of Recruitment at 270-809-2896 or emailing msu.recruitment@murraystate.
Individuals can also visit to refer a high school, transfer or graduate student to receive more information about Murray State.