The numbers are in, and once again UNC Greensboro is growing. The incoming class of more than 2,700 Spartans raises UNCG’s total enrollment to 19,078, representing the largest student body in five years.
It’s an announcement that celebrates recruitment strategy, consistent growth, and student retention efforts across University departments and units.
“We’re seeing what can happen when the entire UNCG community is focused on helping students succeed,” says Chancellor Franklin D. Gilliam, Jr. “This year, UNCG welcomed our largest first-year class since before COVID, achieved the highest first-year retention rate in our history, and enrolled the largest graduate class we’ve ever had. These milestones speak to our shared commitment to student success, belonging, and opportunity at every stage of the academic journey.”
Spartan Recruitment Overcomes Dismal National Predictions
On a steamy August morning, more than 2,000 incoming first-year students filed into Bodford Arena for a formal welcome to campus. They sat in groups according to their majors, but cheered with one boisterous Spartan voice. It was a scene that 2020 experts warned might never happen again, as colleges around the nation braced for an enrollment cliff that could change the state of higher education in post-COVID years.
Despite the predictions, UNCG leaders rolled up their sleeves to boost student recruitment and the hard work paid off. In just the past two years, UNCG has added 1,000 students to its total enrollment.
“Our banner year at UNCG is the result of the large welcome mat we offer to students from all walks of life and the culture of care we wrap around them when they’re here,” says Joel Lee, vice chancellor of Enrollment Management. “Students have a great experience at UNCG, and that word has spread within their communities, high schools, and extended families. We have also leaned into partnerships with community colleges, Triad employers, K-12 systems, and others to build natural bridges to higher education.”
Meet the New Spartans
2700 first-year Spartans represent:
85 of 100 N.C. counties
33 U.S. states
20 countries
Among 500 artists, 320 play an instrument. Four play the accordion.
Of the many athletes, nine have black belts in taekwondo.
All are student leaders including valedictorians, Eagle Scouts, student body presidents,
entrepreneurs, club founders, and community volunteers.
Graduate Growth at the G
Beyond a strong first-year class, this year’s enrollment climb was also bolstered by growth in graduate programs. 2026 student enrollment in UNCG master’s and doctoral programs is the highest in school history.
Whether graduate prospects are looking for flexible online programs, impactful research opportunities, or nationally ranked programs, North Carolina students are entrusting their futures to UNCG.
Retention Remains the True Test
Although attracting new students to unique and rigorous academic programs is a challenge in today’s higher education landscape, faculty members are quick to point out that retention is the true mark of a university.
“Getting students here is only the beginning,” Dean Debra Barksdale says as she celebrated the School of Nursing welcoming a record number of students into clinical rotations last month. She reinforces the importance of “providing support for the students we have in the form of scholarships, faculty and staff, and academic resources.”
Among UNCG’s enrollment census wins, paramount is the steady strength of its student retention. This year, UNCG’s first-time, full-time student retention is the highest number on record. The milestone underscores UNCG’s campuswide commitment to elevate student success through tutoring programs, financial assistance, and academic policy changes.
According to a 2025 study by the UNC System Board of Governors, these efforts earned UNCG the top performance metrics score in the UNC System. The score was based on four-year graduation rates, earned credits and degree efficiency, and cumulative student debt at graduation, including University expenses per degree granted and external funding. Many of these efforts kicked into high gear to address gaps in learning during the pandemic, but it’s evident that UNCG’s student support investments are still paying dividends.
Rising enrollment and retention numbers demonstrate that UNCG is not only connecting students with academic programs, but also supporting them through graduation. This momentum positions UNCG to continue expanding opportunity, strengthening the Triad, and preparing more Spartans to lead, in N.C. and beyond.
Story by Becky Deakins, University Communications.
Photos by Sean Norona, University Communications.
