MARSHALL, Minn. — Southwest Minnesota State University reports fall 2026 enrollment of 8,300 students, down 2.8% from last year’s record levels.
The university’s 30-day enrollment figures include 2,490 undergraduate students, 476 graduate students and 5,270 students enrolled through College Now and Postsecondary Enrollment Options programs. Another 64 non-degree-seeking students are taking classes.
Undergraduate enrollment remained relatively steady, while graduate enrollment declined 12%. International enrollment fell 15.2%, from 132 students last fall to 112 this year.
SMSU President Dr. David P. Jones said the university anticipated a possible decline after several years of enrollment growth.
“Although we experienced a modest decline this fall, we are not alone in seeing enrollment pressures. Many colleges and universities are facing similar challenges,” Jones said.
