Mercer Enrolls Record Freshman Class
Tuesday, September 16th, 2025
Mercer University began its 193rd academic year by enrolling 1,130 new residential undergraduate students, a record number for the University. The Class of 2029 includes 1,016 first-time freshmen, the most in Mercer’s history and surpassing last year’s total by 24%. Another 114 transfer students enrolled this fall.
“This record-setting class reflects Mercer’s steadfast commitment to providing academic excellence grounded in purpose. By surpassing the previous record and welcoming our largest freshman enrollment, Mercer stands stronger than ever,” said Dr. Penny L. Elkins, executive vice president and interim provost. “The University has never been more stable, and student demand for a Mercer education continues to grow. Most importantly, this milestone affirms our mission to prepare students to lead with integrity and impact, because the world needs more Mercerians.”
Mercer has consistently been recognized as one of the nation’s best values by the Princeton Review and U.S. News & World Report, factors that Dr. Elkins believes contribute to the University’s growing undergraduate enrollment.
The cohort of new undergraduate Bears on the Macon campus includes students from 26 states and 12 countries, 18 high school valedictorians, and six Eagle Scouts. Out of the 1,016 first-time freshmen, 59% had a 4.0 or higher grade point average, and 10% are enrolled in the University Honors Program.
Final overall University fall enrollment will be announced in November, after programs with two eight-week terms complete drop/add.