The University of Oklahoma (OU) has welcomed its largest freshman class in history, with a total of 6,251 incoming students for the Class of 2029. This milestone was marked on the first day of classes, which began on August 14, 2023. The new enrollment figures not only set a record for the university but also establish a new benchmark for the state.
This increase continues a trend for OU, marking the fifth consecutive year of record freshman enrollment. Additionally, it is the third year in a row that the university has seen a record number of Oklahomans choosing to start their higher education journey at OU. Overall, total enrollment across all OU campuses has surpassed 36,500 students, reflecting a growth of 16% in the fall term and a remarkable increase of over 30% in freshman enrollment within the last three years.
Significance of the Record Enrollment
OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. emphasized the significance of this influx of students, stating, “The Class of 2029 symbolizes the unmatched value of an OU education that is rapidly drawing students and families from across Oklahoma and beyond. We are excited to champion another outstanding freshman class as they begin the life-changing journey that comes with earning an OU education.”
The academic achievements of the incoming class are noteworthy. The students boast a collective unweighted high school GPA of 3.64, with 711 students achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA or better. Among them, 26% are first-generation college students. Furthermore, 330 freshmen ranked first in their high school graduating classes, and 117 are recipients of the Oklahoma State Regents’ Scholarship, while 770 qualified for Oklahoma’s Promise program.
Celebratory Events and Campus Expansion
To celebrate the incoming class, OU hosted its annual Class Kickoff event on August 13, 2023, at the Gaylord Family — Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. The event featured addresses from prominent figures, including OU quarterback John Mateer and Aaliyah Chavez, a highly regarded freshman and the top recruit in women’s basketball.
In response to the growing student population, OU has invested in modern facilities, including the opening of new state-of-the-art dormitories. This fall semester marks the debut of McCasland Hall, designed to accommodate the increasing number of students on campus.
As the university embarks on this new academic year, the record enrollment reflects not only the institution’s appeal but also its commitment to providing quality education and support for a diverse student body. The Class of 2029 is poised to embark on an enriching journey at the University of Oklahoma, contributing to the vibrant community that defines the school.
