The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) welcomed a high-achieving freshman class this fall while continuing to draw students from across state lines — reflecting the university’s growing reputation as a top destination for academically driven students across the region. UAH is a part of The University of Alabama System.
UAH enrolled 1,220 new freshmen for Fall 2025, part of an overall increase in first-time undergraduate students. This is the second consecutive year of increasing the first-year class. Even more notably, this year’s incoming class brings some of the strongest academic credentials in recent history, with an average ACT score of 27 and an average GPA of 3.97, both reflecting nearly a 2% increase over last year’s already impressive metrics.
“We’re proud to see not only steady interest in UAH but also increasing academic strength in our newest students,” said Dr. Chuck Karr, President of UAH. “It’s a testament to our faculty, our programs and our growing reputation for providing a world-class education with personal support.”
Strong growth in out-of-state and Tennessee enrollment
UAH continues to expand its footprint beyond Alabama, thanks in part to the success of the Tennessee Resident Scholarship Program, which offers in-state tuition rates to qualifying Tennessee students. Tennessee freshman enrollment increased by 9.8% over last year and new first-time undergraduates from outside Alabama grew by 6.04% overall.
“These numbers show that students across the Southeast and beyond are recognizing the value and quality of a UAH education,” said Karr. “Programs like our in-state tuition for Tennessee residents are making a real difference for families.”
Undergraduate enrollment holds steady; Academic quality on the rise
Overall undergraduate enrollment remains strong at 6,743 students, while academic indicators trend upward.
UAH continues to attract talented master’s and doctoral students in high-impact fields. Graduate enrollment for Fall 2025 reached 1,619 students, with strategic planning already underway to support continued growth across programs. New master’s students rose by 7% compared to last year, driven by strong gains in the colleges of business, engineering and nursing.
In addition to strong enrollment trends, UAH continues to distinguish itself as a national research leader. UAH is recognized in national rankings by both U.S. News & World Report and Forbes, reflecting the university’s excellence in education and research.
According to the National Science Foundation’s latest Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) Survey, four UAH programs rank in the top 10 nationally for federal research funding, including aerospace engineering, computer science, atmospheric science and astronomy. This marks the 12th consecutive year that five or more UAH research programs have ranked in the top 25. With $154.5 million in research expenditures for FY24 and a five-year total of $639 million, UAH remains Alabama’s top research institution in key federal categories and continues to make a significant impact in areas critical to national security, space exploration and scientific innovation.
Huntsville continues to earn national recognition as a hub for talent and innovation, recently ranked the 15th Most Educated City by WalletHub and #4 Best Mid-Size Metro for Science Professionals by CoWorking Cafe. The city’s strong appeal for students, professionals, and researchers alike makes it an ideal environment for academic and career growth.
Applications for admission are now open for Fall 2026. High school juniors and seniors are invited to take a sneak peek of campus at upcoming events for prospective students. UAH at a Glance will be held on Saturday, November 15. The Office of Admissions will also host numerous Prospective Student Receptions throughout Alabama and in surrounding states this fall. View the UAH admissions page for schedule and registration details.