The future is roaring: 9,138 new Tigers join Mizzou this fall

Aug. 24, 2026
Contact: Travis Zimpfer, [email protected]
Photo by Abbie Lankitus

COLUMBIA, Mo. - More students are choosing the University of Missouri, drawn by academic excellence, hands-on experiences and a proven path to success.

That momentum continues this fall, with Mizzou's total enrollment projected to top 31,650 students. The 9,138 new Tigers arriving on campus include 6,078 first-time college students, 1,211 transfer students and 1,849 graduate and professional students.

Students aren't just choosing Mizzou - they're thriving. Mizzou's first-year retention rate has climbed to 91%. Its 77% graduation rate is well above state and national averages, and more than 95% of graduates begin their careers or continue their education within six months of earning a degree.

And Mizzou's newest Tigers are ready to make their mark. Nearly 4,000 new students bring grade point averages of at least 3.5. Together, incoming students will pursue more than 120 academic programs across the university. More than 120 will compete as student-athletes, while 87 will take the field with Marching Mizzou.

"At Mizzou, Tigers earn a degree that delivers incredible value, and they become part of a community that drives transformative discoveries and prepares future leaders to make an impact," University of Missouri President Mun Choi said. "We are a world-class, AAU research university and an SEC powerhouse with an 187-year tradition of excellence. Our students continue this proud legacy, and I look forward to seeing how they will move our university, state and nation forward."

That success translates into exceptional value. Mizzou is ranked No. 4 for best value among flagship universities and is consistently recognized as one of America's best colleges. Such rankings consider factors including student outcomes, student-faculty ratios and graduates' return on investment.

"Our students understand the value of a world-class education at Mizzou," said Matthew Martens, provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs. "With renowned faculty, research opportunities and an exceptional campus community, we are excited to see our incoming Tigers thrive academically, engage in hands-on learning and become the next generation of leaders."