Georgia Southwestern sets historic enrollment record surpassing 4,000 students for the first time

AMERICUS, GA (Nov. 21, 2025) — Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) has reached a major milestone this fall, surpassing 4,000 students for the first time in its history. Total enrollment climbed to 4,017 students, an 8.5 percent increase over last year, marking the University’s third consecutive year of record-breaking growth.

This year’s surge reflects strong student retention and continued momentum across key student populations. Compared to last fall, dual enrollment increased by 20.5 percent, transfers by 10.4 percent, undergraduates by 7.4 percent and graduates by 13.2 percent.

Dual enrollment remains a strong driver of growth, with 523 high school students earning college credit through GSW this fall, underscoring the University’s commitment to expanding college access and strengthening partnerships with regional school districts. Graduate programs have also been a major factor in the University’s continued enrollment gains, as more students pursue advanced degrees in high-demand fields. This sustained interest highlights GSW’s strong academic reputation and the increasing value of its graduate-level offerings in education, nursing, business and computer science. 

“Surpassing 4,000 students is a remarkable achievement for Georgia Southwestern and for our entire region,” said GSW President Michelle Johnston, Ph.D. “This growth is the result of strong partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, programs that meet today’s workforce needs and the confidence students and families place in a GSW education. We are committed to continuing this positive momentum and ensuring that every student has the support and opportunities they need to succeed.”

GSW’s enrollment success reflects its commitment to fostering a welcoming environment that supports academic excellence, student engagement and personal growth. This momentum is driven by expanded scholarship opportunities, comprehensive recruitment and outreach efforts, enhanced student success and leadership initiatives, ongoing investment in campus facilities, accredited and nationally recognized academic programs and a continued focus on keeping tuition affordable for students and families.

Additionally, the statewide Georgia Match initiative, which sends direct admissions offers to high school seniors, has contributed to increased interest and applications among prospective students.

According to the University System of Georgia’s (USG) annual fall enrollment report, enrollment grew at 23 of the system’s 26 institutions. Statewide enrollment reached a record high of 382,142 students, a 4.8 percent increase over Fall 2024 and the third consecutive year of system-wide growth.

“Across the state, we’re not just enrolling students but we’re preparing them for the real-world demands of a fast-changing workforce,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “Thanks to the hard work of our presidents, faculty and staff, we’re helping more students enter college, stay on track and get to graduation. Coupled with a record number of degrees awarded this past year, we’re contributing to the virtuous cycle of a more educated workforce and more prosperous Georgia.”

The USG fall enrollment report analyzes data by institution, age, gender, race and ethnicity, and residency status. The full report is available online.

There is still time to apply to GSW for the Spring semester. The undergraduate application fee is waived through the remainder of November. Visit gsw.edu/Apply or contact the Office of Recruitment and Admissions to get started today.