In a surprising turn of events, North Dakota State University (NDSU) has reported consistent enrollment figures for the fall of 2025, a trend that stands out against the backdrop of a significant increase in the overall state university system. This stability at NDSU is not merely a coincidence; it reflects the university's strategic focus and priorities aimed at fostering growth in key areas.
This fall, NDSU proudly announced that it has an enrollment of 11,952 students, maintaining the same number as in both 2024 and 2023. This consistency is particularly noteworthy given that prior to 2023, the university had experienced a steady decline in enrollment numbers since peaking at 14,747 students in 2014, as reported by The Forum.
Seinquis Leinen, who serves as the senior director for strategic enrollment management at NDSU, emphasized the importance of this data, stating, "While it may seem surprising to have identical enrollment three years running, our enrollment data is carefully tracked and verified." This careful monitoring has allowed NDSU to stabilize its headcount, while also witnessing slight increases in scheduled credit hours and full-time equivalency (FTE) metrics.
Notably, NDSU has experienced a 3% rise in new first-year students, alongside a significant influx of new international undergraduate students, as highlighted in a university news release. Furthermore, NDSU leads all colleges and universities in North Dakota in terms of in-person enrollment, with an impressive 95% of students attending classes on campus.
President David Cook remarked on the appeal of NDSU, noting that students are drawn to the university because they envision a promising future in North Dakota. "They’re joining a vibrant campus community, contributing to the local economy and preparing to meet workforce needs in critical fields across the state," Cook stated in the release.
This fall, nearly 4,100 students, which constitutes about one-third of the total student body, are residing in on-campus housing, including residence halls and apartments. In addition to this, NDSU is expanding its online program offerings, with a remarkable 56% increase in students opting for flexible learning options.
The College of Engineering at NDSU has also seen a 2% increase in enrollment this fall, a trend that is expected to continue with the anticipated opening of the $100 million Offerdahl Complex in the fall of 2026.
In contrast, the North Dakota University System (NDUS), which includes all 11 state colleges and universities, has reported a notable surge in enrollment for fall 2025, marking its highest figures since 2014. With a total of 47,552 students enrolled, this represents a 3.8% increase from last year’s count of 45,806 students, as detailed in a recent news release. This current enrollment is not far from the record high of 48,883 students achieved in 2011.
The enrollment figures are based on census data that has been validated by the 11 institutions within the NDUS. Brent Sanford, the newly appointed NDUS Commissioner, noted that the state’s colleges and universities are successfully attracting students from across the region due to their innovative programs, robust career pathways, and welcoming campus environments. "This fall, the energy on our campuses has been extraordinary," Sanford remarked in the release.
More detailed demographic information is expected to be released in the 2025 Fall Enrollment Report, which will be available in October.
With over 35 years of experience in broadcast and print journalism in the Fargo-Moorhead area, Huebner brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion.
