Strong student demand pushes MSU to near-record enrollment

Enrollment posted another banner year, with MSU proving once again it is a top choice for students and their families, boasting its second largest-ever enrollment of 51,838 students.

The impressive enrollment includes students from 139 countries, all 50 states and all of Michigan’s 83 counties, with Oakland, Wayne and Macomb counties boasting the highest number of enrollees — solidifying MSU as “Michigan’s state university.”

Additionally, MSU welcomes 10,720 new undergraduates (new first-time students and transfers), including 8,200 from Michigan. This number includes 1,365 transfer students and more than 600 new members of the Honors College.

“Michigan State’s strength is its people. Currently enrolling more undergraduate students than ever before, it’s clear that students and families place their trust in us to provide an education that is practical, exceptional and accessible,” said President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. “Spartans come from every corner of Michigan, every state in the nation and across the globe. Their presence strengthens our campus and enriches the entire university community.”

Michigan State remains the top choice for in-state students seeking a higher education degree, which includes an array of top-ranked programs to choose from. Six undergraduate programs are ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, which published its 2026 rankings this week:

• No. 1 overall and among public institutions: Supply chain management  

• No. 7 overall and No. 4 among public institutions: Production/operations  

• No. 16 overall and No. 10 among public institutions: Management  

• No. 21 overall and No. 9 among public institutions: International business  

• No. 22 overall and No. 13 among public institutions: Accounting  

• No. 24 overall and No. 14 among public institutions: Undergraduate business  

And these standings aren’t new: MSU’s undergraduate Supply Chain Management program has ranked No. 1 for 15 years in a row. These programs equip students with the skills and experience necessary to thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.

“Michigan State is home to some of the nation’s strongest academic programs across a wide range of disciplines. These rankings reflect the dedication of our faculty and staff and our commitment to providing students with an education that opens doors, prepares them for meaningful careers and empowers them to make a difference in the world,” said MSU Provost Laura Lee McIntyre.

Through initiatives such as the Joseph R. and Sarah L. Williams Scholarship, expanded community college transfer programs and the new First-Gen Center, Michigan State University continues to strengthen access, support and opportunities for all students. These efforts — including providing full-ride scholarships with experiential learning, creating welcoming spaces and resources for first-generation students, and streamlining pathways for transfer students — reflect MSU’s commitment to ensuring every Spartan can thrive academically, personally and professionally, positioning the university to attract and develop the next generation of leaders.