Augusta University marks 11th year of enrollment growth 

This fall, Augusta University welcomes more than 12,600 undergraduate, graduate, professional and post-professional students for the 2026-2027 academic year, marking the largest enrollment in university history. This marks an 11th consecutive year of enrollment growth, with enrollment increasing nearly 3% over fall 2025. 

“Students have a choice, and for 11 consecutive years, more of them have chosen Augusta University,” said AU President Russell T. Keen. “That speaks to the tremendous momentum of this institution, and the confidence students and families are placing in us. We are proud to welcome more Jaguars than ever before, but growth alone is not the goal. We want every student who comes to Augusta University to feel seen, valued and challenged. We want them to leave prepared to change lives, strengthen communities and help move Georgia forward.”  

The official fall numbers will be finalized after the University System of Georgia’s annual census in early October. The consistent growth brings AU one step closer to its strategic goal of 16,000 students by 2030 while expanding the university’s ability to deliver on its life-changing, life-saving mission. 

Growth can be seen across all student types, from undergraduate and graduate students preparing to make their marks in the classroom, labs and boardrooms to specific graduate programs such as the Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Dental Medicine. In fact, this fall also marks the largest incoming graduate student class, further demonstrating the dedication of those choosing to help, to serve, to create and to heal.  

“Our Admissions teams saw another record-breaking application year, reinforcing AU as a destination of choice,” said Amy Smith, EdD, vice president of Enrollment Management. “Our staff have focused a tremendous amount of effort on personal outreach to streamline the enrollment process and provide a strong support network to our new students. I am continuously impressed by the way our faculty and staff – and even current students – invest in building our institutional brand. They understand that enrollment is everyone’s job and are outstanding ambassadors for AU!” 

With more students choosing Augusta University each year, continued investment in academic opportunities and real-world experiences gives students access to an affordable education at Georgia’s flagship academic medical center. Through one-on-one mentoring programs, campus engagement and leadership opportunities, students are prepared to turn their education into meaningful impact.