The University of Northern Iowa saw the size of its incoming class of first-year students grow for the second straight year, as well as all-time high graduation rates for its most recent graduating class.

This fall’s new freshman enrollment increased by 5% over last year to 1,554 students, and increased by 6% over the fall 2019 freshman class. The class of 2025 includes an increase in both Iowa residents and out-of-state students. 

Graduation rates for UNI students are also at record levels and are uniquely strong - nearly 20 percentage points higher than those of similar universities. The continued increases in three-year, four-year, and six-year graduation rates are a direct result of the university’s commitment to student success. One in 14 UNI students graduated in just three years, also a record.

Not only are students graduating in less time, they also have the second-lowest average debt of graduates from all four-year colleges and universities in Iowa.

In addition to welcoming more freshmen, the campus community has seen record involvement in welcome week activities among new students this fall, with hundreds of students participating in each of the many social and educational events offered during the semester’s opening weeks.

“We’re very encouraged by the continued growth of our freshman classes and the increases in our graduation rates,” said President Mark A. Nook. “Both are a reminder of the appeal and value of the accessible, high-quality education offered through UNI.”

Total fall enrollment at UNI is 9,231. That number includes students from all 99 Iowa counties, 45 U.S. states and 56 countries across the globe.

"It's encouraging to see the excitement of our students as they return to a wide range of campus activities this fall," said Kristin Woods, associate vice president for Enrollment Management. "They're highly involved in academic and social programs and focused on their educational goals. It's been a great start to the new academic year."