Abilene Christian University achieved its ninth consecutive year of record enrollment, with more than 7,800 students enrolled for Fall 2026.
The student body total of 7,877 marks an 8% increase over last year, a 48% increase over the past five years, and a 60% increase over the past decade.
The university’s repeated record enrollments are a result of a clear focus on ACU’s unique offering, disciplined execution from the enrollment teams, and expansion of high-demand, market-facing programs, said Dr. Phil Schubert, ACU president.
“Our strong performance in this highly competitive market speaks to the unique experience we offer,” Schubert said. “At ACU, students don’t have to compromise. They can receive an academically rigorous education at a national research university in a formative, Christ-centered environment. We’re committed to welcoming each new student and walking with them as they seek God’s call in their lives.”
ACU’s fall enrollment includes 1,054 new freshmen who come from every region of Texas, the continental United States and across the world. Among the residential freshman class are 16 valedictorians, three National Merit Finalists and 37 international students. Nursing, engineering, management, finance, kinesiology and psychology are some of the most popular areas of study for residential freshmen this year.
Undergraduate enrollment in online programs rose 25% from last year, and overall enrollment in online programs grew by 18%. The university also has a record number of graduate students system-wide, with 2,355.
Quick Enrollment Facts
- Undergraduate students: 5,522
- Graduate students: 2,355
- Abilene campus: 3,631
- Online programs: 4,246
- International students: 217
New Programs in Fall 2026
- Bachelor of Science in construction management
- Bachelor of Science in data science and statistics
- Bachelor of Science in sports media
- Master of Science in nuclear science and engineering
- Master of Engineering in nuclear science and engineering
- Doctor of Philosophy in nuclear science and engineering
- Bachelor of Science in education studies (online)
- Master of Science in Nursing (online)
- Center for Pre-Law Professions
– Wendy Kilmer
Sept. 14, 2026