PULLMAN, WA — Washington State University announced Thursday that the number of new first-year students across its campuses has grown for the third consecutive year. Enrollment rose from 4,350 in fall 2024 to 4,420 this fall, marking a 1.6% increase.

WSU Tri-Cities and Global Campus led the gains, posting double-digit increases of 11.1% and 14.7%, respectively. WSU Vancouver, Everett, and Spokane also reported growth in new or professional student groups. Overall system enrollment remained relatively steady, dipping slightly from 25,685 students in 2024 to 25,477 this year.

Provost and Executive Vice President Chris Riley-Tillman said the upward trend reflects renewed momentum in recruitment and retention. “This steady progress shows that we are firmly back on an upward trajectory,” he said, noting retention rates also improved from 78.8% to 80.5% for new students between fall 2024 and fall 2025.

More than half of WSU’s undergraduates are low-income or first-generation students, and about 37% receive Pell Grants. University leaders emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen financial aid access and expand pathways through initiatives such as Instant Decision Days, the Common App, and Washington’s Guaranteed Admissions Program.