ASU enrolls record number of freshmen

August 24, 2007

ASU anticipates its freshman class will break records again, with a projected 9,300 students. This number of first-time freshmen is the largest in history, almost twice as large as the entering class 10 years ago.<separator></separator>The number of national scholars in the class (National Merit, National Hispanic and National Achievement) totals 266. The number of freshman national scholars at ASU has increased by 25 percent in the past five years, with the number of National Hispanic Scholars increasing by 180 percent during this time. ASU is among the top schools in the country for national scholars.<separator></separator>More than one-third of the 2007 freshman class are students of color, doubling over the past 10 years, reflecting the changing demographics of Arizona and the nation. ASU students come from all 50 states and more than 150 foreign countries.<separator></separator>The number of top scholars from Arizona enrolling at ASU also continues to increase at record pace. ASU President and Provost Scholars increased 11 percent over last year and 64 percent in the past five years. These are students who perform at the very top of their high school graduating class. More than 1,700 President and Provost Scholars, 30 percent of the freshmen from Arizona, are part of this year’s class.<separator></separator>“Our growth in scholars outpaces the overall growth rate, demonstrating that quality and size go together,” says Jim Rund, vice president for university student initiatives. “ASU’s outstanding academic offerings enable our ability to enroll more top students reflecting the demographics of our state.”<separator></separator>“It’s exciting to see so many students take advantage of the high-quality academic experience that is offered at ASU,” adds Martha Byrd, dean of undergraduate admissions. “Our freshman class is entering with a new energy and focus and with high expectations. We look forward to providing them with a world-class university experience.”<separator></separator>Official enrollment numbers for ASU will not be available until after the 21st day of class.

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