University Census 2026: More Alabama students choose UAH as freshman class grows for the third consecutive year

New students smile during Charger Camp orientation sessions during the summer of 2026.

Michael Mercier | UAH

More students from across Alabama are choosing The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), while the university continues to attract students from beyond the state. UAH welcomed 1,276 new freshmen for Fall 2026, including students from 38 states, as the university’s first-year class grew for the third consecutive year. UAH is a part of The University of Alabama System.

The incoming class also brings the strongest academic credentials in recent UAH history, with an average ACT score of 27 and an average GPA of 4.0. Students in the class represent 38 states, extending UAH’s reach well beyond North Alabama.

“We’re pleased to welcome a strong incoming class to UAH this fall, with students bringing impressive academic credentials and experiences from across the country,” said Dr. Donald Leo, UAH president. “These results reflect the quality of our academic programs and the dedication of our faculty and staff. We’re proud to welcome this class and look forward to what they will accomplish at UAH.”

Gains among Alabama students

UAH’s freshman enrollment gains include particularly strong growth among students from its home state. New freshman enrollment from Alabama increased 10% compared with last year, while the number of new freshmen from Madison County, where UAH is located, increased 15%.

Overall, new first-year undergraduate enrollment increased 4.6%, while new graduate enrollment increased 2.4%, marking the first increase in new graduate enrollment in four years. The gains come as UAH continues to strengthen relationships with students, families and schools throughout Alabama and refine its approach to recruitment and enrollment.

Overall, undergraduate enrollment is 6,831 and graduate enrollment is 1,582, bringing the university’s total enrollment for Fall 2026 to 8,413.

Academic programs with real-world impact

UAH students can pursue programs in fields ranging from engineering and science to business and nursing while gaining hands-on experience through research and connections with Huntsville’s aerospace, technology and business communities. The university’s location in one of the nation’s leading aerospace and technology hubs gives students opportunities to apply what they learn beyond the classroom and build connections with organizations across the region and beyond.

Applications for Fall 2027 are now open. Prospective students and families can explore UAH through campus visits, admissions events and opportunities to connect with the Charger community. Visit the UAH admissions website for upcoming events and registration details.