Jax State Sets Enrollment Record for Sixth Consecutive Year 

09/10/2026

Eight straight years of enrollment growth continue the university’s sustained upward trajectory 

JACKSONVILLE, Ala. – Jacksonville State University has set a new all-time enrollment record for the sixth consecutive year, continuing an unprecedented stretch of record-setting growth. 

Jax State enrolled 10,433 students for Fall 2026, surpassing last fall’s record of 10,339. The new record is part of an even longer upward trajectory, with enrollment increasing for eight consecutive years.  

“This sustained growth reflects the confidence students and families continue to place in Jax State and the work our faculty and staff are doing every day to provide an exceptional student experience,” said President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. “While we are proud to see Jax State continue to grow, our focus remains on providing the personal connections, opportunities and sense of community that make this university special. Our students remain at the center of everything we do.” 

Since Fall 2018, Jax State’s enrollment has grown from 8,479 to 10,433, an increase of more than 1,950 students. During that span, the university has reached significant milestones along the way, most recently surpassing 10,000 students for the first time in Fall 2025. 

This fall’s enrollment includes 1,813 first-time freshmen, an increase of 172 students, or nearly 10.5%, from Fall 2025. Jax State also saw growth in both undergraduate and graduate enrollment, with 9,090 undergraduate students and 1,343 graduate students enrolled this fall. 

The continued growth comes as Jax State expands academic opportunities and invests in the student experience. This fall, the university welcomed the first students into its new Bachelor of Science in Aviation and Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship programs, adding to a growing portfolio of academic programs designed to meet student and workforce needs. 

“Our continued growth is a reflection of the experience students find at Jax State,” said Dr. Jessica Wiggins, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “Students are looking for a university where they can find outstanding academic opportunities, meaningful connections and a community invested in their success. Eight consecutive years of growth demonstrate that students continue to see Jax State as that place.” 

As enrollment has grown, the university has also continued to invest in facilities and resources to serve its expanding student body. The opening of West Village this fall added more than 700 beds to on-campus housing, while other recent investments across campus have expanded opportunities for students in academics, student life and the arts. 

Applications are now open for Spring 2027 and Fall 2027. Prospective students can learn more about Jax State, explore academic programs and apply for admission at jsu.edu.