SIU has first overall enrollment gain in nine years

For the first time since 2014, enrollment at Southern Illinois University Carbondale has grown. 

Overall enrollment for the fall semester is 11,359, which is an increase of 252 students, or 2.3%, more than last year.

Officials said it's the highest overall boost in the number of students in 21 years and highest percentage increase in over 30 years. 

A total of 1,621 new freshmen are starting college at SIU, which is 103 more than last year. It's reportedly the first time in at least 50 years the university has increased its freshman class for four consecutive years. 

International student enrollment also increased 6.5% to 853 students.

The university has a goal of reaching 15,000 enrollment by the year 2030.

Record enrollment at SIU was 24,869 students in 1991.



Photo: SIU