Birmingham, AL, September 8, 2025
News Summary
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is expecting a significant rise in freshman enrollment for the upcoming fall semester, with projections showing around 2,500 first-year students. This 25% increase from the previous year highlights the university’s growing appeal, attributed to its strong academic reputation, attractive scholarship opportunities, and ongoing campus improvements. UAB’s diverse enrollment growth across its colleges further signifies a promising future for the institution, amid challenges in national college enrollment trends.
Birmingham, AL – The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is gearing up for an impressive fall semester in 2025, as it anticipates a record-breaking increase in its freshman enrollment. Preliminary figures suggest that approximately 2,500 first-year students are projected to enroll, marking a 25% increase from last year’s total of just over 2,000 students. If these projections hold true, UAB will surpass its all-time high enrollment of 2,415 freshmen recorded in 2021.
The projected increase, equivalent to an additional 550 students, heralds notable success for UAB amid a looming challenge referred to as the “enrollment cliff.” This term describes the anticipated decline in college enrollment in the coming years due to lower birth rates that will result in a smaller pool of high school graduates. UAB’s Senior Vice Provost for Enrollment & Student Success indicated that the university is taking proactive steps and remains optimistic about its recruitment strategies.
Several factors attribute to UAB’s rising enrollment numbers. The university’s strong academic reputation, attractive scholarship offerings, and the vibrant urban environment of Birmingham are particularly appealing to prospective students. Over the last five months, UAB has made significant investments in its campus, completing seven new or renovated buildings, which will ultimately enhance the overall experience for incoming students.
All of UAB’s 12 colleges and schools have reported an enrollment increase, with no single major or degree program dominating this growth. This diversified interest across multiple fields is promising for the university’s future. Furthermore, new facilities such as the Frances and Miller Gorrie Hall, with 110,000 square feet of state-of-the-art labs and classrooms, opened in summer 2025, aligning with UAB’s commitment to providing excellent educational resources.
Recent years have also seen the completion of the Student Assembly Building, which will welcome its first freshman class this fall. This facility aims to foster collaboration among student organizations and enhance the student experience. In addition to the physical improvements, UAB’s distinctive academic programs, such as an undergraduate degree in cancer biology, biomedical engineering, and the new Bachelor of Science in eSports Performance Management and Coaching, are attracting considerable interest.
Student involvement and life on campus are also flourishing, as evidenced by the recent addition of over 1,100 members to the student-led athletics spirit group called Gang Green. The combination of strong academic programs and an active student community suggests a thriving environment for current and future students.
Final enrollment data from UAB will be officially released in October 2025. Notably, UAB has observed a 14% increase in total enrollment since 2015, in contrast to the overall growth of 11% in public colleges across Alabama during the same period. While many public colleges and universities in the state have seen enrollment rises or stability, exceptions include Alabama State, Athens State, and the University of South Alabama, which have reported declines.
Key Enrollment Statistics
| Year | Projected/Actual Freshman Enrollment | Percentage Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2,000 | – |
| 2025 (Projected) | 2,500 | 25% |
| 2021 (Previous Record) | 2,415 | – |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UAB expecting for its fall 2025 enrollment?
UAB is anticipating a record-breaking freshman enrollment of approximately 2,500 students, a 25% increase from the previous year.
What factors are contributing to the increase?
The increase is attributed to UAB’s strong academic reputation, attractive scholarships, and improvements to campus facilities.
When will final enrollment figures be released?
Final enrollment figures will be officially released in October 2025.
How does UAB’s growth compare to other Alabama public colleges?
UAB has experienced a 14% increase in enrollment since 2015, outpacing the average growth of 11% in public colleges across Alabama, although some institutions have seen declines.
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Additional Resources
- WBRC: UAB Expecting Record-Breaking Freshman Enrollment Fall 2025
- Wikipedia: University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Al.com: UAB Freshman Enrollment Surges Sets New University Record
- Google Search: University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Yellowhammer News: UAB Reports Record Freshman Enrollment Growth for Fall 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Alabama at Birmingham
- ABC 3340: UAB Expects Record-Breaking Freshman Enrollment for Fall 2025
- Google News: UAB Enrollment
- CBS42: UAB Anticipating Record-Breaking Freshman Enrollment for 2025
- Google Scholar: University of Alabama at Birmingham Enrollment
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
