U.S. College Enrollment Rises 2 Percent This Fall, Led by Community College Gains

File photoTotal postsecondary enrollment increased 2 percent this fall compared to the previous year, with undergraduate enrollment rising 2.4 percent across all sectors, according to preliminary data released Tuesday by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center.

Community colleges posted the strongest gains among undergraduate institutions, with enrollment climbing 4 percent. Public four-year institutions saw a 1.9 percent increase, while private nonprofit four-year colleges grew 0.9 percent.

Graduate enrollment remained largely flat, edging up just 0.1 percent from fall 2024.

The data, based on a panel of institutions that consistently reported enrollment figures across multiple years, provide an early look at fall term trends. Final enrollment figures will be published in January.

Undergraduate certificate programs experienced the largest growth among all credential types, surging 6.6 percent and continuing robust gains from the previous year. Associate degree programs increased 3.1 percent, bachelor's programs rose 1.2 percent, and doctoral programs grew 1.1 percent.

Master's degree enrollment declined 0.6 percent, making it the only credential category to see a decrease this fall.

The enrollment increases spanned all undergraduate age groups. Students aged 18 grew 3.2 percent, while adult learners aged 25 to 29 increased 3.3 percent and those 30 and older rose 2.7 percent.