Aug. 25, 2025
Contact: Christopher Ave, christopher.ave@missouri.edu
Photos by Gretta Cohoon and Abbie Lankitus
Enrollment numbers are up again this year at the University of Missouri as more students discover the transformative power of a Mizzou education. At Mizzou, students gain real-world experience, develop leadership skills and build the confidence to conquer any challenge. That’s evidenced by the 95% placement rate of Mizzou graduates.
While official enrollment numbers will be finalized next month, preliminary data shows an increase in total enrollment with over 31,300 students. That includes more than 6,000 first-time college students, 1,200-plus new transfer students and over 1,400 new graduate and professional students.
“Students are excited to choose Mizzou because we are one of America’s leading research universities, an SEC powerhouse and an inviting community that supports their success,” University of Missouri President Mun Choi said. “We are proud to welcome all Tigers to campus and to prepare the next generation of leaders who will make an impact in Missouri and beyond.”
Students aren’t just coming to Mizzou; they’re staying because there is a strong sense of belonging.
The national average retention rate — the percentage of first-year students who return to their university after the first year — sits at 68%, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. Mizzou’s first-year retention is on track to be over 90% again, showing Tigers can’t wait to return to campus.
“Our students recognize the remarkable educational opportunities presented to them here at Mizzou,” Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Matthew Martens said. “Student success is paramount to our mission, and we value what we provide them in terms of teaching from committed, world-class faculty, opportunities to work in impactful research laboratories, and numerous real-world experiences that will have them well-prepared for life after Mizzou. Our Tigers are eager to be part of Mizzou’s standard of excellence.”
Mizzou is currently ranked No. 4 for best value among flagship universities and is consistently ranked as one of America’s best colleges. Rankings take into account factors such as student-to-faculty ratio, student outcomes and return on investment after college.
“Mizzou continues its upward trajectory in terms of academic success, our research enterprise and commitment to the state,” Jim Spain, vice provost for undergraduate studies, said. “We look forward to building on that momentum this coming school year.”
