SIUE Spring 2026 Continues Trend of Enrollment Success

SIUE Spring 2026 Continues Trend of Enrollment Success

For the third consecutive term, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has posted an enrollment increase. SIUE's overall enrollment for spring 2026 increased by 6.5% to 11,932 when including continuing, first-time, transfer and early college students. This is SIUE's highest overall enrollment for spring since the Spring 2022 semester.

Through intentional dual enrollment/dual credit partnerships, SIUE has strengthened the pathway to college, resulting in more than 500 high school students enrolling in SIUE courses this spring term.

New domestic student enrollment increased 4.4% over last year with the strongest growth observed among first-year/first-time in college and transfer students.

Several academic programs experienced notable enrollment growth, with Nursing showing an 18.1% increase. Business grew by 3.5%, and Arts and Sciences increased by 3.3%. SIUE's two professional schools also experienced growth, with the School of Pharmacy's enrollment increasing by 9.2% and the School of Dental Medicine's enrollment rising by 1.3%.

"Our current enrollment trends demonstrate that students and families still recognize the value of a high-quality, accessible college degree," said Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD. "These numbers are also a reflection of our collective focus on retention, our intentional institutional effort to keep a greater number of students on track towards graduation-something that is at the core of our mission."

Retention of first-year students from fall 2025 to spring of 2026 reached 89%, up from 86% in 2025. The University's focus on improved advising, direct access to majors and enhanced student engagement opportunities is fostering an environment that supports academic achievement and a strong sense of belonging.

"At SIUE we have worked to optimize enrollment by creating a student-centered experience, enhancing recruitment and outreach efforts, while at the same time working across campus to create a collaborative environment focused on improving advising, academic support, and engaging student life experiences" said Andy Benoit, EdD, Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management.

The University will host SIUE Preview Days for students interested in the upcoming summer and fall terms on Feb. 21 and March 28.

PHOTO: SIUE students on the Stratton Quad