Texas A&M reports record 2026-27 enrollment, over 83,000 applications

Texas A&M University reported a record number of applications for its 2026-27 freshman class this fall, while the university continues to hold undergraduate tuition and fees at 2021 rates.

By the numbers

According to an Oct. 29 news release from A&M, the university received an all-time high of more than 83,000 applications. Completed freshman applications increased 24% over the past two years.

The current freshman class includes 12,645 students as of the 20th day of classes, which contributed to a record total fall enrollment of 81,990 students across the university system's 12 locations. About 85% of students are from Texas.

A closer look

Texas A&M said undergraduate tuition and fees remain frozen at 2021 rates. The university estimated students and families would pay about $4,225 more over four years if those costs had increased with inflation.

The university also expanded its renamed Free Tuition Program for fall 2026. The program covers tuition and fees for eligible incoming Texas undergrad students whose family income and assets total less than $100,000. A&M said 1,062 students receive coverage through the program.

Additionally, 63% of Texas A&M graduates finish their degrees without student debt, the university reported.

Measuring the impact

The university reported a 95% freshman retention rate, which represents students who returned for their sophomore year. Texas A&M also said two-thirds of its students graduate within four years.

According to U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard data, A&M graduates have median annual earnings of nearly $88,500 seven years after graduation. The university compared that figure with a statewide midpoint of roughly $71,000.