MU Reaches Capacity for Fall Semester

June 13, 2008

Story Contact:  Christian Basi, (573) 882-4430, BasiC@missouri.edu

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Preliminary freshman enrollment numbers for Fall 2008 at the University of Missouri continue to indicate a record freshman class. In order to ensure quality in education, services and housing, MU officials have announced that, effective Monday, June 16, the university cannot accept additional freshman applications for the Fall semester.

“We have been very pleased and excited that so many students want to attend the University of Missouri,” MU Chancellor Brady Deaton said. “However, we want to assure that every student receives the best possible educational experience at Mizzou. In order to do that, we felt it was in their best interests to stop accepting applications for this Fall. We will be making every effort to admit additional new students for the Spring 2009 semester. We have taken every step possible to accommodate the current numbers while maintaining our educational standards, and it is our judgment that we must take this action to assure quality.”

Preliminary figures show that more than 5,860 freshmen have paid the initial enrollment deposit for the Fall semester. If the number does not change, it would represent the highest freshman class on record. Last year’s opening day freshman enrollment was 5,027, and the official enrollment, which is determined after the 20th day of classes, was 4,982.

MU officials attribute the increase to successful student recruitment practices, the academic reputation of the university, improvement in campus facilities and grounds, and increased recognition of Mizzou with the recent success of the football program.

                                                                            -30-