On Thursday, August 21, 2025, Arizona State University (ASU) will welcome a record 42,900 new students. This number includes first-year students, transfers, and graduate students, surpassing last year’s figures by over 1,000.
A significant factor in this growth is ASU’s dedication to being the top choice for Arizona residents. An estimated 18,000 new students will come from within the state, including over 9,700 straight from Arizona high schools.
ASU’s online programs are also experiencing a surge. This fall, more than 80,000 students are expected to enroll in ASU Online—a 9% increase from the previous year’s record. Over 19,700 of these students will be new to the online platform.
On-campus enrollment is projected to hit 78,000 students across ASU’s four metropolitan campuses in Phoenix:
- Downtown Phoenix: 10,000+
- Polytechnic: 6,300+
- Tempe: 55,500+
- West Valley: 5,400+
ASU President Michael Crow stated, “More individuals are choosing ASU each year. They see the degree as a key to a better future.” This reflects a growing belief that a college education remains invaluable despite common perception.
This fall, ASU anticipates a record 17,900 first-year students from an impressive pool of over 84,100 applications. Among these newcomers, about 2,200 students will join Barrett, The Honors College, displaying a 4.7% growth since last year and showing the caliber of students seeking an ASU education.
Barrett’s dean, Tara Williams, expressed pride in attracting high-achieving students, noting their average GPA is around 4.2. She believes these students will significantly impact the ASU community.
International enrollment is also thriving. Despite changes in federal guidelines, ASU expects to host 14,600 international students this fall. Matt López, an administrator at ASU, emphasized the school’s commitment to assisting students with visa issues, allowing them to begin their studies online if necessary. This flexibility exemplifies ASU’s inclusive approach to education.
ASU’s total enrollment has skyrocketed, surpassing 194,000 for the past academic year, marking a 7.2% increase. Among these students, 69,000 are Arizona residents—an all-time high. Additionally, over 25,000 students are military-connected, and more than 60,000 accessed federal Pell Grants, underscoring the university’s dedication to accessibility.
In light of these trends, it’s clear that ASU is not just a place of learning but a growing community where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive. With a vast array of programs and support, ASU reinforces its place as a leading institution that adapts to the evolving needs of its students.
As the new academic year approaches, Executive Vice President Nancy Gonzales reflected on the excitement and opportunities that come with it. “Our students will explore their passions, gain important skills, and forge lasting friendships. We’re honored to support them in achieving their ambitions.”
For updated enrollment statistics or more information, you can visit the ASU admissions website.
