College Enrollment & Student Demographic Statistics

Last Updated: 2026-09-07
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Report Highlights. College enrollment totaled 19.4 million students nationwide in Fall 2025, down 7.66% from peak enrollment in 2010 (21.0 million).

  • Projections indicate slightly lower enrollment for Spring 2026 enrollment (18.6 million).
  • 83.7% of postsecondary students are undergraduates; the remaining 16.3% are in graduate programs.
  • 17.8% of the student population is Hispanic or Latino, up 410% since 1976.
  • The number of female college attendees has doubled since 1976; as a share of total students, female representation has increased 12.2%.

College Enrollment & Student Demographic Statistics - college enrollment student demographic statistics

Related research reports include Student Loan Debt Statistics | College Graduation Statistics | College Dropout Rates | Average Cost of College | Student Loan Refinancing

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College Enrollment Statistics

College enrollment statistics indicate that more Americans are forgoing higher education; some may be putting off college attendance to build savings.

  • Postsecondary enrollment peaked in 2010 at 21.02 million.
  • 12.6 million undergraduates and graduate students are enrolled full-time, representing 64.9% of postsecondary students.
  • 62.8% of high school (or equivalent) graduates go on to postsecondary study.
  • Enrollment among new high school graduates has declined 10.4% since its peak in 2009 (70.1%).
  • In 1960, 45.1% of new high school graduates were enrolled in college.
  • Among first-time, first-year college students, 82.7% are full-time students.
  • As many as 7.2% of American adults are enrolled in college as part-time or full-time students.
  • 72.0% of college students at all education levels attend public institutions.
  • Among the 4.98 million undergraduates who attend private institutions, approximately 82.0% attend nonprofit schools.
  • 49.9% of graduate students attend public institutions.
  • 60.8% of undergraduates are full-time or full-time equivalent (FTE) students.
  • In the 2022-2023 academic year, 1.06 million enrolled college students (5.69%) were internationals.
College Enrollment (Undergraduate & Graduate Students) from 1947 to 2026, Selected Years
Year Total %Public Institution
2026* 18,590,777 71.7%
2025 19,413,629 72.1%
2024 19,226,524 71.4%
2023 18,521,466 71.3%
2022 18,580,026 72.6%
2021 18,658,756 72.6%
2020 19,027,410 73.0%
2015 19,988,204 72.9%
2010 21,019,438 72.0%
2005 17,487,475 74.5%
2000 15,312,289 76.8%
1995 14,261,781 77.8%
1990 13,818,637 78.5%
1985 12,247,055 77.4%
1980 12,096,895 78.2%
1975 11,184,859 79.0%
1970 8,580,887 74.9%
1965 5,920,864 67.0%
1961 4,145,065 61.8%
1955 2,653,034 55.6%
1950 2,281,298 50.0%
1947 2,338,226 49.3%

*Spring Enrollment

College Enrollment by Degree

College enrollment statistics indicate that, whether they earn their degree or drop out, most undergraduate students make only one attempt to complete their college education.

  • 17.5%  of undergraduates enrolled in 4-year institutions in Fall 2025 are declared business majors, making it the most popular bachelor’s degree. 
  • Other popular majors among students enrolled in 4-year institutions for Fall 2025 include:
    • Health professions and related clinical sciences (11.1%) 
    • Liberal arts and sciences (7.19%) 
    • Engineering (6.98%) 
  • 25.1% of undergraduates enrolled in 2-year institutions in Fall 2025 declared a liberal arts and sciences major.
  • Other popular majors among students enrolled in 2-year institutions for Fall 2025 include:
    • Healthcare (13.8%) 
    • Business (8.48%) 
    • Computer and information technology (8.48%) 
  • 23.9% of graduate students enrolled in Fall 2025 sought advanced degrees in healthcare. 
  • Other popular fields of study among graduate students enrolled in Fall 2024 include:
    • Business (14.4%) 
    • Education (13.3%) 
    • Computer and information technology (5.97%)
Fall Post-secondary Enrollment (Undergraduate & Graduate) from 1970 to 2026, Selected Years
Year %Full-Time %Undergraduate
2026* 61.6% 83.3%
2025 64.9% 83.6%
2024 64.6% 83.4%
2023 64.7% 83.2%
2022 60.7% 82.9%
2021 60.7% 82.8%
2020 61.0% 83.5%
2015 61.5% 85.3%
2010 62.3% 86.0%
2005 61.7% 85.6%
2000 58.8% 85.9%
1995 57.0% 85.8%
1990 56.6% 86.5%
1985 57.8% 86.5%
1980 58.7% 86.6%
1975 61.2% 86.5%
1970 67.8% 85.9%

College Enrollment by Institution Type

A majority of postsecondary students enroll full-time in degree-granting 4-year public institutions.

  • Among new high school graduates, 20.7% enroll in 2-year colleges; 42.1% enroll in 4-year programs.
  • 78.7% of all undergraduate college students enrolled in 4-year institutions.
  • Among those enrolled in 4-year institutions, 61.9% enroll full-time.
  • 76.4% of undergraduates enroll in public institutions. 
  • Among public institution enrollees, 56.9% enroll in 4-year programs.
  • Most students who enroll in private institutions (80.3%) attend 4-year nonprofits.

College Enrollment by Sex

Limited data makes no significant representation of genders beyond the standard binary. Updates to data collection policies may make these statistics available in the future.

  • 39.7% of enrolled undergraduate students are male; 54.5% are female.
  • 77.0% of male and 75.4% of female college undergraduate students attend public institutions.
  • Among college undergraduate students enrolled in public schools, 53.7% are female.
  • 39.0% of enrolled graduate students are male; 61.0% are female.
  • Among all postsecondary students, graduate and undergraduate, 42.1% are male and 57.9% are female.
  • In 1970, 41.2% of college students were female, up from 29.0% in 1949.
  • 34.2% of American males aged 18 to 24 years are enrolled in college or graduate school.
  • 43.8% of American females aged 18 to 24 years are enrolled in college or graduate school.
  • Among first-time, full-time bachelor’s degree-seekers, females are 32.3% more likely to complete their degree at the first institution they enrolled in and within six (6) years compared to men.
  • 59.8% of bachelor’s degrees are conferred to females.
  • 64.6% of associate’s degrees and 63.4% of master’s degrees are conferred to women.
  • 59.9% of doctorates conferred belong to women.
Fall Post-secondary Enrollment (Undergraduate & Graduate) from 1976 to 2024, Selected Years
Year % Female Enrollment % Female Racial or Ethnic Minority Enrollment
2024 57.76% 28.35%
2023 57.64% 27.61%
2022 57.94% 27.19%
2021 58.37% 26.91%
2020 58.56% 26.80%
2019 57.39% 25.89%
2018 57.03% 25.21%
2017 56.66% 24.64%
2016 56.47% 24.11%
2015 56.36% 23.71%
2014 56.47% 23.45%
2010 56.96% 21.55%
2000 56.10% 16.53%
1990 54.28% 11.06%
1980 51.44% 8.80%
1976 47.23% 7.85%

College Enrollment by Race or Ethnicity

Demographic statistics are imperfect because many people do not fit easily into just one category. Not all races are represented and some historical data use obsolete definitions and terminology. The language of this report conforms to the language used in available data sets.

  • 49.9% of college students are White or Caucasian; excluding nonresident noncitizens or international students.
  • 48.8% of White or Caucasian students enroll in undergraduate programs.
  • As a percentage of total student enrollments, the rate of enrollment of students of color has increased from 15.4% in 1976 to 47.5% in 2024, an absolute increase of 32.1%.
  • Black and African American student enrollment has seen an absolute increase of 3.6% (since 1976 relative to total enrollment.
  • 20.6% of postsecondary students were white males in Fall 2024.
  • 18.0% of postbaccalaureate students were white males in Fall 2024.
  • Enrollment among Hispanic females has seen an absolute increase of 11.3% from 1976 to 2024 relative to total enrollment.
  • American Indians and Alaska Natives had a low absolute increase of enrollment relative to total enrollments, increasing by 0.035% since 1976.
  • The absolute increase in enrollment of American Indian and Alaska Native students in postbaccalaureate programs is similarly low, increasing by 0.019% since 1976.

College Enrollment & Student Demographic Statistics - college enrollment student demographic statistics 1

American Indian or Alaska Native Enrollment

Postsecondary attendance among American Indian or Alaska Native students was in decline between 2012 and 2021, but has risen every year since. 

  • 0.66% of students identify as American Indian or Alaska Native.
  • Attendance among students of this demographic has increased 69.9% relative to 1976.
  • American Indian or Alaska Native students saw their highest rate of attendance in 2007 (1.08%).
  • 77.6% of students in this demographic attend public institutions.
  • 66.1% of American Indian or Alaska Native students attend 4-year institutions.

Asian or Asian American Enrollment

Postsecondary attendance among Asian or Asian American students has steadily grown since 2010; attendance rates prior to 2010 combine Asian and Pacific Islander student populations.

  • 7.51% of students identify as Asian or Asian American.
  • Attendance among students of this demographic has increased 21.3% relative to 2010.
  • 72.9% of Asians or Asian Americans attend public institutions.
  • 79.2% of Asian or Asian American students attend 4-year institutions.

Black or African-American Enrollment

Postsecondary attendance among Black or African American students was on the rise until 2010; since then, it has been in decline. However, as of 2023, enrollments started to rise.

  • 13.0% of students identify as Black or African American.
  • Attendance among students of this demographic has increased by 147.6% relative to 1976.
  • 67.1% of students in this demographic attend public institutions.
  • 72.5% of Black or African American students attend 4-year institutions.

Hispanic or Latino Enrollment

Postsecondary attendance among Hispanic or Latino students has skyrocketed in the last 50 years and continues to grow annually.

  • 21.7% of the college student population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.
  • Attendance among this demographic has increased by 1010% relative to 1976.
  • 85.0% of students in this demographic attend public institutions.
  • 66.6% of Hispanic or Latino students enroll in 4-year colleges.

Pacific Islander Enrollment

As with the Asian or Asian American category, attendance rates prior to 2010 combined Asian and Pacific Islander student populations.

  • 0.23% of the college student population identifies as Pacific Islander.
  • Attendance among this demographic has declined by 30.2% relative to 2010.
  • 63.8% of students in this demographic attend public institutions.
  • 70.8% of Pacific Islander students enrolled in 4-year colleges.

Multiracial Enrollment

Students who identify as two or more races are categorized as multiracial. Data prior to 2010 is unavailable.

  • 4.39% of the college student population identifies as multiracial.
  • Attendance among multiracial students has increased by 165% relative to 2010.
  • 74.2% of students in this demographic attend public institutions.
  • 75.1% of multiracial students enroll in 4-year colleges.
Fall Post-secondary Enrollment (Undergraduate & Graduate) from 1976 to 2024, Selected Years
Year % Racial or Ethnic Minority Enrollment % Black or African American Enrollment
2024 57.76% 28.35%
2023 57.64% 27.61%
2022 45.23% 12.50%
2021 44.35% 12.48%
2020 43.94% 12.54%
2019 43.41% 12.57%
2018 42.52% 12.70%
2017 41.77% 12.89%
2016 40.97% 13.05%
2015 40.36% 13.41%
2014 39.84% 13.82%
2010 36.11% 14.46%
2000 28.22% 11.30%
1990 19.57% 9.02%
1980 16.11% 9.15%
1976 15.35% 9.38%

U.S. Nonresident Enrollment

The phrase US nonresident is defined as “A person who is not a citizen or national of the United States and who is in the United States on a visa or temporary basis and does not have the right to remain indefinitely”.

  • 5.33% of enrolled college students are nonresident non-citizens.
  • The attendance rate among these students increased 1.85% YoY. 
  • Attendance among these students has increased by 378.8% relative to 1976. 
  • Since 2010, attendance is up 47.0%. 
  • 58.0% of students in this demographic attend public institutions.
  • 94.3% of nonresident, non-citizen students enroll in 4-year colleges.

College Enrollment & Student Demographic Statistics - college enrollment student demographic statistics 2

College Enrollment by Age

Most college students first enroll in their late teens as full-time students. Part-time students are more likely to be older.

  • Among Americans aged 25 years and older, 38.7% have a bachelor’s degree or higher.
  • 24.7% of undergraduate students are aged 25 years and under in 2025.
  • 65.0% of all enrolled undergraduate students are aged 18-24 years old.
  • 10.4% of all enrolled undergraduate students are aged 17 years old and younger.
  • 14.6% of all enrolled undergraduate students are aged 18 years old.
  • 27.1% of all enrolled undergraduate students are aged 19-20 years old.
  • 23.3% of all enrolled undergraduate students are aged 21-24 years old.
  • 8.71% of all enrolled undergraduate students are aged 25-29 years old.
  • 16.0% of all enrolled undergraduate students are aged 30 years and older.
  • People aged 50 to 64 made up 1.92% of all enrolled students in 2021.
  • 2.18% of all enrolled students were aged 50 and over in 2021.
  • Students enrolled in Fall 2024 were 1.11% more likely to be between the ages of 18 and 24 than students enrolled in Fall 2005.
  • Among all postsecondary students, the rate of 30- to 64-year-old enrollees declined by 27.0% between 2005 and 2024.

College Enrollment & Student Demographic Statistics - college enrollment student demographic statistics 3

College-Bound High School Graduates

The percentage of high school graduates (referred to sometimes as completers) who enroll in either 2-year or 4-year institutions following graduation is referred to as the “immediate college enrollment rate”.

  • In 2024, 3.22 million students graduated from high school, a 0.31% increase relative to the Class of 2018 (the second largest graduating class).
  • 62.8% of the Class of 2024 enrolled in postsecondary institutions in Fall 2025.
  • Among the Class of 2024, 20.7% enrolled in 2-year institutions in Fall 2025.
  • 42.1% of the Class of 2024 enrolled in 4-year institutions.
  • Among males who graduated high school in 2024, 55.4% immediately enrolled in college.
  • Females in the Class of 2024 had a 69.5% immediate matriculation rate.
  • Among the Class of 2024, female students were 127.8% more likely to immediately matriculate. 
  • 2024 female high school graduates were 77.8% more likely to immediately enroll in 4-year institutions compared to graduating males.
  • Among immediately college-bound members of the Class of 2023, female students were 24.3% more likely to attend 4-year institutions compared to males.

College Enrollment & Student Demographic Statistics - college enrollment student demographic statistics 4

College enrollment statistics indicate that many students are willing to travel out of their home state for their college education.

  • California has the highest number of enrolled college students at 2.487 million, a 97.9% increase relative to 1970.
  • New York, and Texas are the only other states with more than a million college students enrolled.
  • Alaska has the smallest student population with 20,523 students enrolled; that’s a 116.7% increase relative to 1970.
  • Wyoming, Montana, South Dakota, and Vermont all have fewer than 50,000 enrolled college students.
  • Idaho, Utah, and Texas have seen the largest increases in enrollment rates relative to 2010 at 40.8%, 11.5%, and 7.45% respectively.
  • 44 (states have seen a decline in postsecondary enrollment since 2010.
  • Iowa and West Virginia saw the largest declines in enrollment since 2010, losing 51.1% and 42.1% of their respective student populations
  • The only jurisdictions to see an increase in the number of students enrolled since 2010 are Utah, Idaho, Delaware, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas.
  • Alabama and Georgia had the largest YoY student population growth at 4.94% and 4.92%, respectively.
College Enrollment Trends Among States
State College Enrollment Fall 2025 % Change, 2010 to 2025
Alabama 288,569 -11.90%
Alaska 20,523 -41.00%
Arizona 523,143 -34.10%
Arkansas 139,069 -20.90%
California 2,487,488 -8.37%
Colorado 279,876 -24.20%
Connecticut 181,162 -9.14%
Delaware 57,173 3.47%
District of Columbia 78,390 -14.80%
Florida 974,554 -13.40%
Georgia 588,054 3.36%
Hawaii 57,323 -26.60%
Idaho 119,944 40.80%
Illinois 632,458 -30.30%
Indiana 341,322 -25.70%
Iowa 186,667 -51.10%
Kansas 183,382 -14.60%
Kentucky 272,470 -6.40%
Louisiana 218,598 -17.10%
Maine 72,179 -0.31%
Maryland 361,416 -4.38%
Massachusetts 435,752 -14.20%
Michigan 466,877 -33.10%
Minnesota 298,841 -35.80%
Mississippi 164,971 -8.35%
Missouri 304,791 -31.50%
Montana 47,946 -10.00%
Nebraska 119,947 -17.10%
Nevada 110,223 -14.80%
New Hampshire 50,013 -33.80%
New Jersey 355,466 -20.00%
New Mexico 105,244 -35.30%
New York 1,061,006 -18.70%
North Carolina 598,710 2.21%
North Dakota 54,891 -3.54%
Ohio 557,360 -25.20%
Oklahoma 198,887 -13.70%
Oregon 189,310 -24.80%
Pennsylvania 664,969 -17.40%
Rhode Island 69,898 -17.90%
South Carolina 255,671 -0.54%
South Dakota 46,968 -19.50%
Tennessee 319,788 -9.09%
Texas 1,650,223 7.45%
Utah 284,969 11.50%
Vermont 35,037 -23.10%
Virginia 544,007 -5.87%
Washington 291,545 -24.90%
West Virginia 75,487 -50.50%
Wisconsin 305,722 -20.40%
Wyoming 30,005 -21.70%

College Enrollment in Alabama

Among students enrolled full-time in Alabama postsecondary institutions, 68.3% are state residents and 31.7% are nonresidents.

  • 288,569 students are enrolled in Alabama colleges.
  • Enrollment in Alabama has declined by 11.9% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment in Alabama increased by 215.2%.
  • 57.9% of full-time students in Alabama are female.
  • 93.0% of students enrolled in Alabama postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Alabama residents enrolled in college, 14.6% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Alaska

Among students enrolled full-time in Alaska postsecondary institutions, 86.7% are state residents and 13.3% are nonresidents.

  • 20,523 students are enrolled in Alaska colleges.
  • Enrollment in Alaska has declined 41.0% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 267.4%.
  • 57.2% of full-time students in Alaska are female.
  • 97.1% of students enrolled in Alaska postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Alaska residents enrolled in college, 51.3% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Arizona

Among students enrolled full-time in Arizona postsecondary institutions, 60.3% are state residents and 39.7% are nonresidents.

  • 523,123 students are enrolled in Arizona colleges.
  • Enrollment in Arizona has declined 34.1% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 624.2%.
  • 60.4% of full-time students in Arizona are female.
  • 75.1% of students enrolled in Arizona postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Arizona residents enrolled in college, 14.7% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Arkansas

Among students enrolled full-time in Arkansas postsecondary institutions, 68.3% are state residents and 31.7% are nonresidents.

  • 139,069 students are enrolled in Arkansas colleges.
  • Enrollment in Arkansas has declined by 20.9% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 237.9%.
  • 58.6% of full-time students in Arkansas are female.
  • 89.4% of students enrolled in Arkansas postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Arkansas residents enrolled in college, 17.3% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in California

Among students enrolled full-time in California postsecondary institutions, 88.8% are state residents and 11.2% are nonresidents.

  • 2,487,488 students are enrolled in California colleges.
  • Enrollment in California has declined by 8.37% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 115.9%.
  • 57.3% of full-time students in California are female.
  • 84.6% of students enrolled in California postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all California residents enrolled in college, 12.5% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Colorado

Among students enrolled full-time in Colorado postsecondary institutions, 66.3% are state residents and 33.7% are nonresidents.

  • 369,450 students are enrolled in Colorado colleges.
  • Enrollment in Colorado has declined by 24.2% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 199.4%.
  • 56.1% of full-time students in Colorado are female.
  • 87.8% of students enrolled in Colorado postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Colorado residents enrolled in college, 31.8% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Connecticut

Among students enrolled full-time in Connecticut postsecondary institutions, 61.4% are state residents and 38.6% are nonresidents.

  • 279,876 students are enrolled in Connecticut colleges.
  • Enrollment in Connecticut has declined by 9.14% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 59.9%.
  • 57.2% of full-time students in Connecticut are female.
  • 51.3% of students enrolled in Connecticut postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Connecticut residents enrolled in college, 43.5% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Delaware

Among students enrolled full-time in Delaware postsecondary institutions, 50.5% are state residents and 49.5% are nonresidents.

  • 57,173 students are enrolled in Delaware colleges.
  • Enrollment in Delaware has increased by 3.47% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 118.8%.
  • 59.4% of full-time students in Delaware are female.
  • 72.9% of students enrolled in Delaware postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Delaware residents enrolled in college, 37.4% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in the District of Columbia

Among students enrolled full-time in D.C. postsecondary institutions, 6.9% are D.C. residents and 93.1% are nonresidents.

  • 78,390 students are enrolled in D.C. colleges.
  • Enrollment in D.C. has declined by 14.8% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 19.2%.
  • 62.1% of full-time students in D.C. are female.
  • 3.6% of students enrolled in D.C. postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all D.C. residents enrolled in college, 78.1% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Florida

Among students enrolled full-time in Florida postsecondary institutions, 79.4% are state residents and 20.6% are nonresidents.

  • 974,554 students are enrolled in Florida colleges.
  • Enrollment in Florida has declined by 13.4% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 377.6%.
  • 57.3% of full-time students in Florida are female.
  • 80.7% of students enrolled in Florida postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Florida residents enrolled in college, 15.2% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Georgia

Among students enrolled full-time in Georgia postsecondary institutions, 79.9% are state residents and 20.1% are nonresidents.

  • 588,054 students are enrolled in Georgia colleges.
  • Enrollment in Georgia has increased by 3.36% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 349.7%.
  • 59% of full-time students in Georgia are female.
  • 86.2% of students enrolled in Georgia postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Georgia residents enrolled in college, 23.8% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Hawaii

Among students enrolled full-time in Hawaii postsecondary institutions, 66.7% are state residents and 33.3% are nonresidents.

  • 57,323 students are enrolled in Hawaii colleges.
  • Enrollment in Hawaii has declined by 26.6% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 113.5%.
  • 62.8% of full-time students in Hawaii are female.
  • 74.5% of students enrolled in Hawaii postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Hawaii residents enrolled in college, 42.4% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Idaho

Among students enrolled full-time in Idaho postsecondary institutions, 60.3% are state residents and 39.7% are nonresidents.

  • 119,994 students are enrolled in Idaho colleges.
  • Enrollment in Idaho has increased 40.8% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 146.5%.
  • 55.4% of full-time students in Idaho are female.
  • 64.6% of students enrolled in Idaho postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Idaho residents enrolled in college, 28.7% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Illinois

Among students enrolled full-time in Illinois postsecondary institutions, 79.9% are state residents and 20.1% are nonresidents.

  • 632,458 students are enrolled in Illinois colleges.
  • Enrollment in Illinois has declined 30.3% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 100.6%.
  • 55.6% of full-time students in Illinois are female.
  • 70.1% of students enrolled in Illinois postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Illinois residents enrolled in college, 32.9% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Indiana

Among students enrolled full-time in Indiana postsecondary institutions, 67.2% are state residents and 32.8% are nonresidents.

  • 341,322 students are enrolled in Indiana colleges.
  • Enrollment in Indiana has declined by 25.7% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 138.5%.
  • 54.6% of full-time students in Indiana are female.
  • 56.9% of students enrolled in Indiana postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Indiana residents enrolled in college, 16.3% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Iowa

Among students enrolled full-time in Iowa postsecondary institutions, 64.3% are state residents and 35.7% are nonresidents.

  • 186,667 students are enrolled in Iowa colleges.
  • Enrollment in Iowa has declined 51.1% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 250.7%.
  • 52% of full-time students in Iowa are female.
  • 74.3% of students enrolled in Iowa postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Iowa residents enrolled in college, 15.2% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Kansas

Among students enrolled full-time in Kansas postsecondary institutions, 69.4% are state residents and 30.6% are nonresidents.

  • 183,382 students are enrolled in Kansas colleges.
  • Enrollment in Kansas has declined by 14.6% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 109.6%.
  • 53% of full-time students in Kansas are female.
  • 91.0% of students enrolled in Kansas postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Kansas residents enrolled in college, 19.4% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Kentucky

Among students enrolled full-time in Kentucky postsecondary institutions, 77% are state residents and 23% are nonresidents.

  • 272,470 students are enrolled in Kentucky colleges.
  • Enrollment in Kentucky has declined by 6.40% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 195.3%.
  • 59.7% of full-time students in Kentucky are female.
  • 78.1% of students enrolled in Kentucky postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Kentucky residents enrolled in college, 16.7% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Louisiana

Among students enrolled full-time in Louisiana postsecondary institutions, 79.1% are state residents and 20.9% are nonresidents.

  • 218,598 students are enrolled in Louisiana colleges.
  • Enrollment in Louisiana has declined 17.1% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 118.4%.
  • 60.6% of full-time students in Louisiana are female.
  • 73.0% of students enrolled in Louisiana postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Louisiana residents enrolled in college, 15.9% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Maine

Among students enrolled full-time in Maine postsecondary institutions, 61.7% are state residents and 38.3% are nonresidents.

  • 72,179 students are enrolled in Maine colleges.
  • Enrollment in Maine has declined by 0.31% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 112.1%.
  • 57.9% of full-time students in Maine are female.
  • 73.0% of students enrolled in Maine postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Maine residents enrolled in college, 28.4% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Maryland

Among students enrolled full-time in Maryland postsecondary institutions, 77.3% are state residents and 22.7% are nonresidents.

  • 361,416 students are enrolled in Maryland colleges.
  • Enrollment in Maryland has declined by 4.38% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 152.6%.
  • 55.4% of full-time students in Maryland are female.
  • 84.7% of students enrolled in Maryland postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Maryland residents enrolled in college, 36.6% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Massachusetts

Among students enrolled full-time in Massachusetts postsecondary institutions, 55.7% are state residents and 44.3% are nonresidents.

  • 435,752 students are enrolled in Massachusetts colleges.
  • Enrollment in Massachusetts has declined by 14.2% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 67.1%.
  • 55.8% of full-time students in Massachusetts are female.
  • 44.9% of students enrolled in Massachusetts postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Massachusetts residents enrolled in college, 37.7% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Michigan

Among students enrolled full-time in Michigan postsecondary institutions, 83.5% are state residents and 16.5% are nonresidents.

  • 466,877 students are enrolled in Michigan colleges.
  • Enrollment in Michigan has declined 33.1% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 77.7%.
  • 55% of full-time students in Michigan are female.
  • 88.9% of students enrolled in Michigan postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Michigan residents enrolled in college, 14.0% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Minnesota

Among students enrolled full-time in Minnesota postsecondary institutions, 77.9% are state residents and 22.1% are nonresidents.

  • 298,841 students are enrolled in Minnesota colleges.
  • Enrollment in Minnesota has declined by 34.8% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 189.5%.
  • 59.7% of full-time students in Minnesota are female.
  • 79.4% of students enrolled in Minnesota postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Minnesota residents enrolled in college, 34.7% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Mississippi

Among students enrolled full-time in Mississippi postsecondary institutions, 72.5% are state residents and 27.5% are nonresidents.

  • 164,971 students are enrolled in Mississippi colleges.
  • Enrollment in Mississippi has declined by 8.35% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 143.3%.
  • 60.1% of full-time students in Mississippi are female.
  • 90.9% of students enrolled in Mississippi postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Mississippi residents enrolled in college, 13.0% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Missouri

Among students enrolled full-time in Missouri postsecondary institutions, 75% are state residents and 25% are nonresidents.

  • 304,791 students are enrolled in Missouri colleges.
  • Enrollment in Missouri has declined by 31.5% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 141.8%.
  • 56.2% of full-time students in Missouri are female.
  • 64.9% of students enrolled in Missouri postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Missouri residents enrolled in college, 23.9% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Montana

Among students enrolled full-time in Montana postsecondary institutions, 54.6% are state residents and 45.4% are nonresidents.

  • 47,946 students are enrolled in Montana colleges.
  • Enrollment in Montana has declined by 10.0% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 77.2%.
  • 53.0% of full-time students in Montana are female.
  • 93.8% of students enrolled in Montana postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Montana residents enrolled in college, 28.6% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Nebraska

Among students enrolled full-time in Nebraska postsecondary institutions, 74% are state residents and 26% are nonresidents.

  • 119,947 students are enrolled in Nebraska colleges.
  • Enrollment in Nebraska has declined by 17.1% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 116.2%.
  • 55.7% of full-time students in Nebraska are female.
  • 78.8% of students enrolled in Nebraska postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Nebraska residents enrolled in college, 24.9% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Nevada

Among students enrolled full-time in Nevada postsecondary institutions, 89.5% are state residents and 10.5% are nonresidents.

  • 110,223 students are enrolled in Nevada colleges.
  • Enrollment in Nevada has declined by 14.8% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 846.4%.
  • 59.4% of full-time students in Nevada are female.
  • 97.8% of students enrolled in Nevada postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Nevada residents enrolled in college, 26.0% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in New Hampshire

Among students enrolled full-time in New Hampshire postsecondary institutions, 21.4% are state residents and 78.6% are nonresidents.

  • 50,013 students are enrolled in New Hampshire colleges.
  • Enrollment in New Hampshire has increased 33.8% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 156.9%.
  • 58.6% of full-time students in New Hampshire are female.
  • 64.0% of students enrolled in New Hampshire postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all New Hampshire residents enrolled in college, 50.1% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in New Jersey

Among students enrolled full-time in New Jersey postsecondary institutions, 88.7% are state residents and 11.3% are nonresidents.

  • 355,466 students are enrolled in New Jersey colleges.
  • Enrollment in New Jersey has declined 20.0% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 105.5%.
  • 52.8% of full-time students in New Jersey are female.
  • 83.0% of students enrolled in New Jersey postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all New Jersey residents enrolled in college, 39.2% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in New Mexico

Among students enrolled full-time in New Mexico postsecondary institutions, 82.7% are state residents and 17.3% are nonresidents.

  • 105,244 students are enrolled in New Mexico colleges.
  • Enrollment in New Mexico has declined by 35.3% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 265.6%.
  • 59.2% of full-time students in New Mexico are female.
  • 95.8% of students enrolled in New Mexico postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all New Mexico residents enrolled in college, 18.7% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in New York

Among students enrolled full-time in New York postsecondary institutions, 73.9% are state residents and 26.1% are nonresidents.

  • 1,061,006 students are enrolled in New York colleges.
  • Enrollment in New York has declined by 18.7% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 61.8%.
  • 56.4% of full-time students in New York are female.
  • 53.2% of students enrolled in New York postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all New York residents enrolled in college, 22.9% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in North Carolina

Among students enrolled full-time in North Carolina postsecondary institutions, 78.6% are state residents and 21.4% are nonresidents.

  • 598,710 students are enrolled in North Carolina colleges.
  • Enrollment in North Carolina has increased by 2.21% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 240.7%.
  • 57.9% of full-time students in North Carolina are female.
  • 85.2% of students enrolled in North Carolina postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all North Carolina residents enrolled in college, 15.7% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in North Dakota

Among students enrolled full-time in North Dakota postsecondary institutions, 49.5% are state residents and 50.5% are nonresidents.

  • 54,891 students are enrolled in North Dakota colleges.
  • Enrollment in North Dakota has declined by 3.54% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 80.7%.
  • 51.7% of full-time students in North Dakota are female.
  • 79.7% of students enrolled in North Dakota postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all North Dakota residents enrolled in college, 26.7% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Ohio

Among students enrolled full-time in Ohio postsecondary institutions, 75.8% are state residents and 24.2% are nonresidents.

  • 557,360 students are enrolled in Ohio colleges.
  • Enrollment in Ohio has declined 25.2% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 98.0%.
  • 55.4% of full-time students in Ohio are female.
  • 77.7% of students enrolled in Ohio postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Ohio residents enrolled in college, 17.4% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Oklahoma

Among students enrolled full-time in Oklahoma postsecondary institutions, 76.0% are state residents and 24.0% are nonresidents.

  • 198,887 students are enrolled in Oklahoma colleges.
  • Enrollment in Oklahoma has declined by 13.7% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 109.3%.
  • 56.4% of full-time students in Oklahoma are female.
  • 84.5% of students enrolled in Oklahoma postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Oklahoma residents enrolled in college, 17.2% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Oregon

Among students enrolled full-time in Oregon postsecondary institutions, 69.5% are state residents and 30.5% are nonresidents.

  • 189,310 students are enrolled in Oregon colleges.
  • Enrollment in Oregon has declined by 24.8% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 106.0%.
  • 56.6% of full-time students in Oregon are female.
  • 86.4% of students enrolled in Oregon postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Oregon residents enrolled in college, 21.8% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Pennsylvania

Among students enrolled full-time in Pennsylvania postsecondary institutions, 67.1% are state residents and 32.9% are nonresidents.

  • 664,969 students are enrolled in Pennsylvania colleges.
  • Enrollment in Pennsylvania has declined by 17.4% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 95.8%.
  • 55.4% of full-time students in Pennsylvania are female.
  • 49.6% of students enrolled in Pennsylvania postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Pennsylvania residents enrolled in college, 24.0% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Puerto Rico

Among students enrolled full-time in Puerto Rico postsecondary institutions, 94.8% are residents and 5.2% are nonresidents.

  • 159,682 students are enrolled in Puerto Rico colleges.
  • Enrollment in Puerto Rico has declined by 35.5% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 292.8%.
  • 60.2% of full-time students in Puerto Rico are female.
  • 28.2% of students enrolled in Puerto Rico postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Puerto Rico residents enrolled in college, 5.4% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Rhode Island

Among students enrolled full-time in Rhode Island postsecondary institutions, 39.7% are state residents and 60.3% are nonresidents.

  • 69,898 students are enrolled in Rhode Island colleges.
  • Enrollment in Rhode Island has declined by 17.9% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 85.4%.
  • 56.1% of full-time students in Rhode Island are female.
  • 47.7% of students enrolled in Rhode Island postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Rhode Island residents enrolled in college, 33.2% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in South Carolina

Among students enrolled full-time in South Carolina postsecondary institutions, 70.9% are state residents and 29.1% are nonresidents.

  • 255,671 students are enrolled in South Carolina colleges.
  • Enrollment in South Carolina has declined by 0.54% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 269.8%.
  • 57.5% of full-time students in South Carolina are female.
  • 85.6% of students enrolled in South Carolina postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all South Carolina residents enrolled in college, 16.6% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in South Dakota

Among students enrolled full-time in South Dakota postsecondary institutions, 58.3% are state residents and 41.7% are nonresidents.

  • 46,968 students are enrolled in South Dakota colleges.
  • Enrollment in South Dakota has declined by 19.5% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 90.5%.
  • 52.0% of full-time students in South Dakota are female.
  • 86.2% of students enrolled in South Dakota postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all South Dakota residents enrolled in college, 26.4% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Tennessee

Among students enrolled full-time in Tennessee postsecondary institutions, 71.0% are state residents and 29.0% are nonresidents.

  • 319,788 students are enrolled in Tennessee colleges.
  • Enrollment in Tennessee has declined by 9.09% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 160.4%.
  • 59.1% of full-time students in Tennessee are female.
  • 69.8% of students enrolled in Tennessee postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Tennessee residents enrolled in college, 20.7% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Texas

Among students enrolled full-time in Texas postsecondary institutions, 91.9% are state residents and 8.11% are nonresidents.

  • 1,650,223 students are enrolled in Texas colleges.
  • Enrollment in Texas has increased by 7.45% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 247.3%.
  • 56.7% of full-time students in Texas are female.
  • 90.2% of students enrolled in Texas postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Texas residents enrolled in college, 14.7% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Utah

Among students enrolled full-time in Utah postsecondary institutions, 63.1% are state residents and 36.9% are nonresidents.

  • 284,969 students are enrolled in Utah colleges.
  • Enrollment in Utah has increased by 11.5% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 213%.
  • 59.0% of full-time students in Utah are female.
  • 79.7% of students enrolled in Utah postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Utah residents enrolled in college, 11.4% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Vermont

Among students enrolled full-time in Vermont postsecondary institutions, 25.5% are state residents and 74.5% are nonresidents.

  • 35,037 students are enrolled in Vermont colleges.
  • Enrollment in Vermont has declined by 23.1% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 105.2%.
  • 55.0% of full-time students in Vermont are female.
  • 63.3% of students enrolled in Vermont postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Vermont residents enrolled in college, 54.6% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Virginia

Among students enrolled full-time in Virginia postsecondary institutions, 75.1% are state residents and 24.9% are nonresidents.

  • 544,007 students are enrolled in Virginia colleges.
  • Enrollment in Virginia has declined by 5.87% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 280.4%.
  • 56.6% of full-time students in Virginia are female.
  • 67.1% of students enrolled in Virginia postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Virginia residents enrolled in college, 21.4% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Washington

Among students enrolled full-time in Washington postsecondary institutions, 83.0% are state residents and 17.0% are nonresidents.

  • 291,545 students are enrolled in Washington colleges.
  • Enrollment in Washington has declined 24.9% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 111.5%.
  • 57.3% of full-time students in Washington are female.
  • 86.7% of students enrolled in Washington postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Washington residents enrolled in college, 25.8% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in West Virginia

Among students enrolled full-time in West Virginia postsecondary institutions, 56.2% are state residents and 43.8% are nonresidents.

  • 75,487 students are enrolled in West Virginia colleges.
  • Enrollment in West Virginia has declined by 50.5% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased 141.4%.
  • 56.5% of full-time students in West Virginia are female.
  • 87.5% of students enrolled in West Virginia postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all West Virginia residents enrolled in college, 17.5% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Wisconsin

Among students enrolled full-time in Wisconsin postsecondary institutions, 71.9% are state residents and 28.1% are nonresidents.

  • 305,722 students are enrolled in Wisconsin colleges.
  • Enrollment in Wisconsin has declined by 20.4% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 90.1%.
  • 56.0% of full-time students in Wisconsin are female.
  • 86.1% of students enrolled in Wisconsin postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Wisconsin residents enrolled in college, 21% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment in Wyoming

Among students enrolled full-time in Wyoming postsecondary institutions, 63.8% are state residents and 36.2% are nonresidents.

  • 30,005 students are enrolled in Wyoming colleges.
  • Enrollment in Wyoming has declined by 21.7% since 2010.
  • Between 1970 and 2010, enrollment increased by 151.6%.
  • 52.4% of full-time students in Wyoming are female.
  • 64.0% of students enrolled in Wyoming postsecondary institutions attend public schools.
  • Among all Wyoming residents enrolled in college, 26.9% leave the state to attend school.

College Enrollment & Student Demographic Statistics - college enrollment student demographic statistics 5

International Student Population & Enrollment Statistics

International enrollment for 2021 declined significantly due to COVID-related travel restrictions.

  • In the 2022-2023 academic year, 1,057,188 international students enrolled in U.S. postsecondary institutions.
  • 70.8% of international students studying in U.S. postsecondary institutions were from Asia.
  • Among Asian international students, 38.8% were from China and 25.4% were from India.
  • Relative to 1980, enrollment numbers among Asian international students increased by 690.5%.
  • 4.95% of international students were from the Middle East or North Africa.
  • International students from more than 30 countries studied in the U.S. in 2022-2023.
    • 8.50% of international students were from Europe.
    • 7.75% of international students were from Latin America.
    • 4.99% of international students came from Southeast Asia (including Indonesia).
    • 4.75% of international students were Sub-Saharan African.
    • 2.64% of international students were Canadian.
    • 0.43% of international students were Australian.

Study Abroad Enrollment Statistics

Nearly 350,000 students studied abroad in the 2018-2019 academic year; students are most likely to study abroad over a summer, and women are more than twice as likely to study abroad compared to men.

  • In 2019-2020, 162,633 U.S. college students studied overseas, 67.4% of them were women.
  • 42.7% of study-abroad students travel overseas during their junior year.
  • 38.6% of study abroad students travel during a summer term.
  • 30.7% of study abroad students study overseas for one (1) semester.
  • 19.3% of study abroad students stay for a term of eight (8) weeks or less; 0.2% remain for a full calendar year.
  • 55.7% of all study abroad students travel to Europe.
  • American students are more than 58.1% more likely to study in Europe as they are in any other host region.
  • 13.8% of study-abroad students travel to Latin America; 11.7% travel to Asia.
  • In 10 years, the number of students studying abroad decreased 33.3%.
  • 68.7% of study abroad students identify as white.
  • 10.9% of study abroad students identify as Hispanic; 8.9% identify as Asian or Pacific Islander.
  • 0.6% of study abroad students remain in North America (includes Canada and Antarctica).

Sources

  1. United States Census Bureau, Current Population Survey
  2. National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), Digest of Education Statistics
  3. National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, Current Term Enrollment Estimates
  4. NCES, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System