Kent State University students share a laugh while
participating in the festivities held during this past fall’s
Welcome Weekend, an orientation program that helps
students acclimate to the university community. The
university’s 2013 freshman class is on pace to set
retention records as the number of students who have
already committed to returning for a second year has risen
by more than 5 percent over the previous year.

Kent State University’s 2013 freshman class is on pace to set retention records as the number of students who have already committed to returning for a second year has risen by more than 5 percent over the previous year.

Meanwhile, incoming freshmen to the university’s Kent Campus will bring inspiring credentials this fall as their class boasts a 3.31 grade point average (GPA), up slightly over last year’s class. Strong commitments for enrollment and student housing means the demand to be part of the Class of 2018 reached capacity more than six weeks earlier than last year for traditional incoming freshmen attending the Kent Campus.

“Parents and students recognize that Kent State is the place to be, not just for a great education, but also for a great place to live,” says Kent State President Lester A. Lefton. “Clearly our efforts to retain this year’s freshman class have been well-received, and it’s exciting to embrace a diverse, high-achieving group of new freshmen ready to follow in their footsteps this fall.”

With the application process for new freshmen now closed for the Kent Campus, others who apply will be given the option to attend one of Kent State’s seven Regional Campuses located throughout Northeast Ohio or begin attending the Kent Campus in the spring of 2015.

“With so many students committing to Kent State early in their senior year of high school, it’s clear that students and their parents feel strongly that this is the right choice to invest in their futures,” says T. David Garcia, Kent State’s associate vice president for enrollment management. “To also see so many freshmen committed to their education and advancing to their sophomore year at Kent State shows that we delivered what we promised – a challenging, rewarding education and a great campus to call home.”

Freshman enrollment has contributed to the university’s enrollment growth. In fall 2013, the university reported its highest-ever enrollment for the Kent Campus with 28,019 students, including a record 4,314 freshmen. This fall’s incoming freshman class should be a similar size, Garcia says.

For enrollment questions, contact Kent State’s Admissions Office at 1-800-988-5368.