Knoxville TN, September 9, 2025

News Summary

The University of Tennessee has reported record enrollment figures for the fall semester of the 2025 academic year, featuring a retention rate of 92.4% for first-year students. This marks the third consecutive year of increasing retention rates. Additionally, total enrollment has reached 40,421 students, with over 7,100 in the largest freshman class in university history. The university continues to prioritize in-state students and has seen a significant rise in first-year applications for the upcoming academic year.

Knoxville: University of Tennessee Reports Record Enrollment and Retention Rates for 2025 Academic Year

The University of Tennessee (UT) has announced record-setting numbers for the fall semester of the 2025 academic year, reporting a retention rate of 92.4% for first-year students. This figure marks a significant increase for the third consecutive year, indicating a successful strategy in student engagement and support.

Overall enrollment has also reached historic levels, with more than 40,421 students registered, establishing a new institutional record. Among this total, the incoming Class of 2029 comprises over 7,100 first-year students, making it the largest freshman class in the university’s history. Notably, 60% of these new students hail from Tennessee, reflecting UT’s commitment to prioritizing in-state residents in its enrollment strategy.

The university has witnessed a growing interest in its programs, receiving nearly 63,000 first-year applications for the upcoming 2025-26 school year, which is a 5.1% increase from the previous year. This surge in applications is attributed to ongoing improvements in the university’s reputation, academic offerings, and student support services.

Furthermore, UT has achieved an impressive four-year graduation rate of 67%, which represents a 5.4% increase, alongside a six-year graduation rate that has now reached 75%. These trends underscore a growing commitment to student success.

The fall semester commenced on August 18, with expectations for continued enrollment growth. UT’s previous highest retention rate was recorded at 91.9%, showcasing an upward trend in student satisfaction and retention.

Chancellor Donde Plowman has set a goal to enroll 55,000 students by 2030, which will include 14,000 students in online programs. To accommodate this growth, UT is planning several construction projects, including new facilities for the Haslam College of Business and a Chemistry Building. Additionally, the university has already opened the new UT Medical Nursing Building at the onset of the semester.

The university’s focus on enhancing student success is further augmented by Vice Provost for Student Success Amber Williams, who leads initiatives aimed at providing necessary resources and support for students. The notable increase in both enrollment and retention rates can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of faculty, staff, and university leadership.

Summary of Key Statistics for UT’s 2025 Academic Year

• Total Enrollment: 40,421
• First-Year Retention Rate: 92.4%
• Largest Freshman Class: 7,100
• In-State Freshman Percentage: 60%
• First-Year Applications: 63,000
• Four-Year Graduation Rate: 67%
• Six-Year Graduation Rate: 75%
• Projected Enrollment Goal by 2030: 55,000 students

Background Information

This substantial growth in enrollment and retention rates is reflective of UT’s emphasis on student engagement and support services, ensuring that students have the resources necessary to succeed academically and socially. The university’s long-term goals and the introduction of new infrastructure and programs are aimed at maintaining UT’s growth trajectory and continuing to improve student outcomes.

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Additional Resources

• Knox News: University of Tennessee Breaks Enrollment Record
• WATE: UT Begins Fall Semester with Record Enrollment
• Times Free Press: UTC Enrollment Surpasses 12,000
• Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Tennessee
• WBIR: UT Record Enrollment Fall 2025

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