Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma each are touting enrollment records as classes for the 2026-27 academic year are set to begin at the state’s two primary research institutions.
OSU said that across its five campuses, it has recorded all-time highs in the enrollment of full-time students — more than 23,000 — as well as records for the number of online students and Native American students, while OU said it has enrolled its largest freshman class ever, consisting of more than 6,400 students.
OU and OSU’s increasing enrollment comes even colleges and universities in the U.S. brace for what’s colloquially known as the “demographic cliff” as a result of population markers. U.S. Census numbers show the number of high school graduates peaked in 2025, then are projected to drop off sharply in the years after that.
online enrollment climbing to a record 3,289 students. In-state enrollment stands at 17,999, its highest level since 1984 and Native American enrollment at OSU has reached an all-time high of 3,657 students.
The freshman class of 4,712 providing an educational experience that helps students succeed while strengthening the communities and state we are proud to serve.”
Meanwhile, at OU, 6,437 freshmen have enrolled, making it the sixth straight academic year in which This year’s OU freshman class includes 137 Oklahoma State Regents’ Scholars, a 17% increase over last year, along with 702 students who earned a 4.0 or higher grade-point
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average and 299 who graduated first in their high school class.
“There has never been a more exciting time to be a Sooner,” OU President Joseph Harroz said. “At a time when universities across the country are struggling, OU is experiencing remarkable momentum. Students and families recognize the extraordinary value of an OU education – an unparalleled experience inside and outside the classroom, exceptional academic opportunities and a degree that opens doors for a lifetime.
“Just as importantly, we are proving that excellence and affordability can go hand in hand, keeping the American Dream within reach for more Oklahoma families. This is a defining moment for our university. We are growing in size, strength, reach and impact, and we are just getting started.”
OU said its final enrollment reports for the semester will be available the third week of classes.
OU has students on its primary campus in Norman, as well as on its Health Sciences Campus in Oklahoma City and on a satellite campus in Tulsa. ___
Murray Evans has reported in Oklahoma for nearly 40 years, covering subjects including education, tribal affairs, energy and sports. Previously working for The Oklahoman and The Associated Press, Evans has travelled the state to tell the stories of Oklahomans, winning multiple awards in sports and news writing along the way. He can be reached at murray. evans@wsoknews.com.