As of Fall 2023, Auburn University enrolled approximately 33,015 students. This figure includes both undergraduate and graduate students, reflecting the university’s continued growth and its status as one of Alabama’s largest higher education institutions.
Overview of Auburn University’s Enrollment
Auburn University, located in Auburn, Alabama, is a public research university known for its strong academic programs, spirited campus life, and storied traditions. Each year, it attracts thousands of students from across the United States and internationally. The 33,015 students enrolled in Fall 2023 mark a record high for the university, underscoring its increasing popularity and expanding programs.
Breakdown of Student Population
The total enrollment at Auburn University comprises both undergraduate and graduate students. Here’s how the numbers break down for Fall 2023:
- Undergraduate students: Approximately 26,874
- Graduate and professional students: About 6,141
Most Auburn students are enrolled full-time, with undergraduates making up roughly 81% of the total student body. The graduate student population encompasses those pursuing master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees (such as in pharmacy and veterinary medicine).
Historical Enrollment Trends
Auburn University’s student population has grown steadily over the past several decades. In the early 2000s, total enrollment hovered around 21,000. The university has experienced consistent increases, driven by academic reputation, a vibrant campus culture, and investment in new facilities and programs. Notably, the undergraduate population has seen the most substantial growth, while graduate enrollment has remained steady or grown more modestly.
Major milestones in Auburn’s enrollment history include:
- Crossing 25,000 total students in the mid-2010s
- Record freshman classes in recent years, often exceeding 5,000 new students
- Increasing diversity, with more out-of-state and international students enrolling
Admissions and Selectivity
As Auburn’s popularity has risen, so has its selectivity. For Fall 2023, Auburn received more than 48,000 undergraduate applications. The university admitted about 13,000 of those applicants, resulting in an acceptance rate of around 27%. This marks a significant shift from earlier decades, when acceptance rates were much higher.
Key factors influencing Auburn’s admissions include:
- High school GPA and rigor of coursework
- Standardized test scores (though Auburn is test-optional for many applicants)
- Extracurricular involvement and leadership
- Essays and letters of recommendation
As a result, incoming classes are academically strong, with an average freshman GPA above 4.1 (weighted) and competitive ACT/SAT scores among those who submit them.
Student Demographics and Diversity
Auburn University’s student body is diverse in many respects, though like many public universities in the South, it has historically drawn a large proportion of in-state students. As of Fall 2023:
- About 56% of students are from Alabama
- Roughly 44% are from out-of-state, with significant numbers from Georgia, Florida, Texas, and Tennessee
- International students make up about 3% of the student population, representing over 80 countries
- The ethnic composition is around 80% White, 8% Black or African American, 5% Hispanic or Latino, and 3% Asian, with the remainder identifying as multiracial or other
- The gender split is close to even, with a slight majority of female students (about 51%)
Auburn has made efforts to increase diversity and inclusion through targeted recruitment, scholarships, and campus programming.
Academic Programs and Colleges
Auburn University offers over 150 majors across 14 colleges and schools, including:
- College of Engineering (the largest undergraduate college)
- Harbert College of Business
- College of Sciences and Mathematics
- College of Education
- Samuel Ginn College of Engineering
- College of Agriculture
- School of Nursing
- College of Architecture, Design and Construction
- College of Liberal Arts
The most popular majors at Auburn include engineering, business, biological sciences, education, and nursing. The university is also home to professional schools such as the Harrison College of Pharmacy and the College of Veterinary Medicine, which draw students nationally and internationally.
Campus Life and Student Experience
With over 33,000 students, Auburn offers a vibrant campus environment. Students can participate in more than 500 student organizations, including fraternities and sororities, academic clubs, service groups, and intramural sports. Auburn is known for its school spirit, particularly around athletics; the Auburn Tigers compete in NCAA Division I and are members of the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
The university’s traditions, such as the Auburn Creed, Tiger Walk, and rolling Toomer’s Corner after football victories, are central to campus life. The size of the student body allows for a wide range of events, activities, and support services, while the campus itself is considered walkable and community-oriented.
Comparisons to Peer Institutions
In terms of student population, Auburn University is among the largest universities in Alabama, alongside the University of Alabama and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Here’s how Auburn’s enrollment compares to some peers:
- University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa): About 39,600 students (2023)
- University of Alabama at Birmingham: About 21,600 students (2023)
- University of Georgia: About 40,100 students (2023)
- Mississippi State University: About 22,000 students (2023)
Auburn’s size places it squarely in the mid-to-large range for public research universities in the Southeast. Its undergraduate-heavy population, campus setting, and traditions give Auburn a distinctive feel compared to urban or commuter schools.
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees at Auburn University vary depending on residency status. For the 2023-24 academic year:
- In-state undergraduate tuition and fees: About $12,176 per year
- Out-of-state undergraduate tuition and fees: About $32,246 per year
Graduate tuition rates are slightly higher for some programs, especially in professional schools. Auburn offers a range of financial aid, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, work-study opportunities, and federal student loans. About 65% of Auburn students receive some form of financial assistance.
Campus Safety and Student Support
Auburn University places a strong emphasis on campus safety and student well-being. The Auburn University Department of Campus Safety & Security provides 24/7 patrols, emergency notification systems, and safety escorts. The university also has resources such as counseling services, academic tutoring, and health clinics to support student needs.
Crime rates on campus are relatively low compared to national averages for universities of similar size, and Auburn’s small-town setting contributes to a sense of community and security. Nevertheless, students are encouraged to take standard precautions and make use of campus safety resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many students are at Auburn University in 2023?
Auburn University reported a total enrollment of 33,015 students in Fall 2023, which includes both undergraduate and graduate students. - What is the undergraduate population at Auburn?
There are approximately 26,874 undergraduate students at Auburn University as of Fall 2023, making up the majority of the student body. - Is Auburn University growing?
Yes, Auburn’s enrollment has steadily increased over the past decade, reaching record highs in recent years as the university expands its programs and facilities. - What percentage of Auburn students are from out of state?
About 44% of Auburn’s students are from outside Alabama, with significant representation from neighboring states and beyond. - How does Auburn’s enrollment compare to the University of Alabama?
The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa is somewhat larger, with about 39,600 students, compared to Auburn’s 33,015. Both are among the largest universities in Alabama. - Does Auburn have a diverse student body?
Auburn’s student body is becoming more diverse, with ongoing efforts to recruit students from a variety of backgrounds, though the majority of students are White and from the Southeastern U.S.
Conclusion
Auburn University’s student body of over 33,000 reflects its status as a major public research institution in the Southeast. With a strong undergraduate focus, growing diversity, and a vibrant campus life rooted in tradition, Auburn continues to attract students regionally, nationally, and globally. Whether you’re considering applying, comparing universities, or simply curious, understanding Auburn’s enrollment figures provides valuable insight into the scale, opportunities, and experiences available at this storied institution.