TAMUK Sets Enrollment Record With Largest First-Year Class

Texas A&M University Kingsville

KINGSVILLE, TEXAS (News Release) - The fall 2026 semester at Texas A&M University-Kingsville marks an incredible milestone as the university welcomes its largest first-year class in the institution’s 100-year history and celebrates the highest freshmen retention rate on record. Total fall 2026 enrollment at the university has increased one percent over last year’s certified total. Based on census day data, the university saw meaningful increases among all new enrolled populations including:

• a 12 percent increase in total new enrollment

• a nearly 12 percent increase in new First-Time-In-College (FTIC) students

• a 10 percent increase in new transfer students

• a 4 percent increase in new master’s students

• a remarkable 161 percent increase in new doctoral students

In addition to these enrollment achievements, TAMUK experienced a 1.2 percent increase in Semester Credit Hours (SCHs), meaning students are enrolling in more courses this fall—a positive indicator for timely degree completion. 

As part of growing efforts to prioritize educational access and social mobility across South Texas, the university continues to expand its Workforce Development portfolio this fall. In August, 84 students enrolled in workforce certification programs including electrical trades, carpentry and certified medical assisting, including the inaugural cohort of the Workforce Initiative Rural Expansion Program focused on broadband training. In total, TAMUK Workforce Development trained approximately 1,336 individuals since 2024.  

While the beginning of the semester is typically a time for celebrating new students and new starts—the university’s success extends beyond enrollment growth. Preliminary fall data show record gains in FTIC retention. With a FTIC retention rate of more than 75 percent, the University has increased retention by 4 percentage points in one year and by nearly 11 percentage points in two years. 

As more students persist, more are earning their degrees. In 2025-2026, the University experienced a 9 percent increase in bachelor's degree completion and a 52 percent increase in doctoral degree completion.