The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, begins the fall semester with historic success, setting records in retention and enrollment, thanks in part to its innovative student success programs and student experience.
Enrollment data, finalized on the 14th day of the semester in keeping with state guidelines, shows that UT’s retention rate has risen for the third consecutive year, with more than 92.4% of first-year students from last year returning for their sophomore year. The university’s strong record of retaining students and keeping them on track to graduate has been a key driver of enrollment growth, which hit an institutional record of 40,421 this fall.
“These records are a testament to the innovative approach of our faculty and staff, and the hard work of our students,” said Chancellor Donde Plowman. “Every year, more students want to come to UT because they are looking for an experience that will change their lives and an education that will prepare them for the future. They know when they become Volunteers that they will have the community, resources and support they need to thrive both in the classroom and out of it.”
The university’s graduation rates have also risen, for the fifth consecutive year, with an estimated 75% of students graduating within six years — the standard for federal and state reporting. The four-year graduation rate climbed by 5.4%, reaching a record high of 67%.
“UT’s investment in the success of our scholars is continuing to pay off, and it’s wonderful to celebrate these milestones together,” said Vice Provost of Student Success Amber Williams. “We are especially thrilled to have the highest first-year retention figure in UT’s history, an incredible increase in the four-year graduation rate and to see the positive gains in the five- and six-year graduation rates. We are thankful for the collaboration with leadership, campus partners and faculty that made these achievements possible. It’s great to have more Vol alumni!”
Vols on the rise
The university received nearly 63,000 first-year applications for the 2025-26 academic year, a new record that includes a 5.1% increase in Tennessee applicants. The increase in enrollment and applications is supported by the university’s strategic enrollment plan, which for the first time includes graduate and fully online enrollment goals in addition to undergraduate enrollment. The plan focuses on expanding access through online learning while providing an unparalleled Volunteer experience for campus-based students and aims to empower and prepare Tennessee’s future workforce.
“Creating a personalized student experience is our anchor, from recruitment to graduation,” said Kari Alldredge, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management. “The record number of students choosing Rocky Top reflects the passion that defines the Volunteer family and the Volunteer experience. With many college options, there’s only one UT—where the genuine care of the Vol community supports students throughout their college journey.”
Some of the final numbers for the First-year Class of 2029:
- More than 7,100 first-year students are joining UT this fall, with 60% of them coming from in-state. This is the largest ever first year-class in university history. To support enrollment growth and meet the needs of students, UT opened two new residence halls this fall and a third is set to open in fall 2026.
- First-year students hail from all 95 Tennessee counties and 46 states plus the District of Columbia, and 33 countries.
- First-generation college students make up 15% of incoming students.
- 94% of first-year students are receiving some form of scholarship or financial aid.
This fall’s transfer class includes more than 1,700 students, with more than 1,100 of them coming from in-state. Transfer applications topped 5,300 — setting a new record — with a 7% increase in Tennessee applicants.
Reimagining student success
Since its founding in 2019, UT’s Division of Student Success has steadily advanced student outcomes by focusing on each student’s unique strengths and goals. By taking a strengths-based approach that begins during the first semester, the division provides tailored support that helps students grow as leaders, scholars and professionals.
The division offers a number of initiatives throughout the academic year — such as Student Success Express and Vol Edge — that connect students with professional and academic development resources.
The new Student Success Center building is scheduled to open in fall 2027, further advancing the division’s mission to support students. The building will feature active learning classrooms and study areas, offer spaces for mentoring, coaching and collaboration, and house Student Disability Services.
Enriching the Volunteer experience
By creating opportunities that inspire connection and embody the Volunteer spirit, the Division of Student Life is advancing the university’s historic momentum through a rich student experience.
Before classes began on Aug. 18, the division celebrated the new academic year with its third annual Tennessee Saturday Night. More than 7,800 students gathered at the Student Union to enjoy activities like glow-in-the-dark laser tag, vision board crafting and caricature drawing while learning about the division’s resources and services.
The university also celebrated the opening of Poplar and Beacon halls, two new residential communities that house a combined 1,959 students. During move-in week, a record 9,100 students were welcomed to campus by more than 150 faculty and staff members and 300 student volunteers.
With nationally competitive enrollment and retention, record fundraising efforts, competitive athletic programs and a number of campus improvements underway, UT is proving there has never been a better time to be a Volunteer.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Tyra Haag (865-974-5460, tyra.haag@tennessee.edu)