Furman University prepares to welcome one of its largest classes in a decade

As the national enrollment picture remains uncertain and, at times, volatile, Furman University has significantly exceeded its enrollment goals for fall 2026, preparing to welcome one of its largest incoming classes in a decade — a clear signal that families are choosing an education built on deep investment in every student.

Conceding that final enrollment numbers are difficult to predict given continued market volatility, Furman Admissions officials say:

• Based on current deposits, the university expects to welcome a class of more than 700 first-year students this fall — significantly above Furman’s enrollment target and more than 150 students greater than last year’s class.
• Furman has experienced increased interest and deposits nationally, along with meaningful growth among students in South Carolina.
• Furman’s yield rate climbed more than five percentage points this year, which reflects growing demand for the kind of education Furman offers.
• This class also reflects continued gains in academic strength.

Across higher education, demographic cliffs, shifting financial pressures and evolving student decision-making have made enrollment less predictable. But at Furman, uncertainty has not dampened interest. Prospective students and families are responding to an institution that knows its students as individuals and believes in what they are capable of becoming.

“On paper, Furman had already checked all the boxes — excellent academics, accessible staff and support, and exceptional programs for Kate’s educational focus on biology and health careers,” said Matthew Lysne, father of Kate Lysne, an incoming first-year for the Class of 2030. “But the campus visit at Admitted Students Day was when she met the people, and that seemed to matter the most. Furman staff and students were genuine and welcoming, professors were relatable, and the school felt like ‘home’ immediately. And that means a lot when you are coming from Oregon.”

The Lysnes’ experience reflects how Furman approaches the liberal arts — an education that meets students where they are and prepares them for where they’re going. Every student works with a faculty mentor who knows them, has access to funded research and internship opportunities, semester and short-term study away experiences, and is supported by four years of intentional advising designed around their evolving ambitions. The result is an academic experience that is both foundational and adaptable.

Beyond the classroom, Furman’s campus is a place where school spirit, the arts and a wide range of student organizations create a community of genuine energy and connection. Students are trusted with real responsibility, encouraged to pursue more than one passion, and surrounded by peers who take their work seriously.

“I think what sealed the deal for me was the feeling of familiarity and comfort walking on campus compared to others that just didn’t feel like home,” said Delaney Arroyo, an incoming first-year. “My mentor from my high school always told me, ‘if you know, you just know,’ and to go with that gut feeling. That’s what I ultimately did.”

“At a moment when families are scrutinizing the value of higher education more closely than ever, what we’re seeing is a clear answer,” said Furman President Elizabeth Davis. “Students and parents are choosing the kind of education that has defined Furman for 200 years — one rooted in genuine relationships, real investment, and a belief that every student is capable of more than they imagine. We can’t wait to welcome the Class of 2030 home this August.”

For more information, please contact Brian Edwards at [email protected], and 864-294-2608.