Enrollment across Mississippi’s public university system for fall 2026 is stable compared to fall 2025, according to data provided by the system’s eight institutions and the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Total student enrollment for fall 2026 is 81,771, compared to 81,961 for fall 2025.
“Serving nearly 82,000 students this fall, our universities continue to provide higher education opportunities and prepare students for the workforce and life,” said Dr. Al Rankins Jr., commissioner of higher education. “In this very competitive higher education environment, all of our universities must be laser focused on recruitment, retention, and positive student outcomes.”
Figures are unduplicated and count students one time regardless of on-campus and off-campus enrollment. Figures are based on enrollment as of October 30th of the fall term.
| Institution | Fall 2025 | Fall 2026 | Number Change | % Change |
| Alcorn State University | 2,900 | 2,903 | 3 | 0.1 |
| Delta State University | 2,791 | 2,863 | 72 | 2.6 |
| Jackson State University | 6,464 | 5,773 | -691 | -10.7 |
| Mississippi State University | 23,563 | 23,721 | 158 | 0.7 |
| Mississippi University for Women | 2,371 | 2,457 | 86 | 3.6 |
| Mississippi Valley State University | 2,276 | 1,976 | -300 | -13.2 |
| University of Mississippi | 28,405 | 28,960 | 555 | 2.0 |
| University of Mississippi | 25,222 | 25,690 | 468 | 1.9 |
| University of Mississippi Medical Center | 3,183 | 3,270 | 87 | 2.7 |
| University of Southern Mississippi | 13,191 | 13,118 | -73 | -0.6 |
| System Total | 81,961 | 81,771 | -190 | -0.2 |
Source: Institutional Research Offices, 11/2/26
