The University of Texas Permian Basin is welcoming its largest-ever first-time-in-college class this
fall, with 699 new freshmen choosing UTPB. Overall, UTPB’s Fall 2026 enrollment is up 5.8% from
last fall, with 5,976 students enrolled this semester.
The record-breaking freshman class is one of several signs that more students are choosing UTPB as
their first-choice institution.
"Seeing more students choose UTPB, from our record freshman class to the continued growth of our
graduate programs, reflects the strength and momentum of this University,” said UTPB President
Sandra Woodley. “We are proud to provide an affordable, high-quality education that connects
students to opportunities in the Permian Basin and beyond. As UTPB grows, our commitment
remains the same: to help every student find their path and prepare for a successful future."
In addition to our freshman class, the University saw growth across every other student population
this fall, including transfer, continuing undergraduate, dual credit, post-baccalaureate and graduate
students.
Fall 2026 enrollment highlights include:
- We have 5,976 students, our highest Fall watermark in the last five years.
- We are up 5.8% in headcount and 5.8% in Student Credit Hours.
- We have a total of 1,112 new undergraduate students.
- A record breaking FTIC class of 699, up from our previous high in Fall 2022 of 616.
- Transfers are at 413, up 5.4% over last year and our best performance since Fall
2023.
- Continuing Undergraduate students were enrolled at 89% of the available pool, a record.
- Post-baccalaureate students increased 16% over last year and 54% over two years ago.
- Graduate Students hit a new enrollment record of 1,488, up 44% since Fall 2022!
- Dual Credit is up 20% over last year.
- UTPB introduced five new courses in specialized dual credit with introductory
courses in Healthcare, Engineering, Business, Education, and Humanities. The new
intro courses have added 72 students - a strong start to this new initiative.
- UTPB introduced five new courses in specialized dual credit with introductory
high-demand careers,” said Dr. Becky Spurlock, Senior VP for Student Affairs and Enrollment
Management. “From Falcon Free to the Falcon Fast-Track pathways, we’re creating opportunities for
students at every level, including high school, undergraduate, and graduate students. I also want to
give a huge congratulations to our hardworking Enrollment Management, Graduate Studies, and
Student Success teams, whose dedication makes all this possible.”
Prospective undergraduate students and families are invited to visit campus during Falcon Day on
one of the following Saturdays: November 14, February 20, and April 10. Guests will explore life as a
Falcon, learn about academic programs, hear from current students, and get important details on
financial aid, housing, and more. The event is free to attend. Register at utpb.edu/falcondays. Visitors are also welcome to tour campus any time during our daily tours at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
UT Permian Basin continues to expand opportunities for students while meeting the workforce
needs of West Texas. To learn more or apply today, visit utpb.edu/apply.
