U of M Twin Cities welcomes second largest freshman class in 55 years

(ABC 6 News) – Tuesday was the beginning of the school year for the 171st fall class of students at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus.

According to the U of M, the fall 2022 class includes approximately 6,700 first-year students, the campus’ second largest freshman class in the past 55 years with nearly 7 out of every 10 being from Minnesota.

The University received more than 38,000 applications – an increase of more than 6% compared to 2021.

“We are thrilled to welcome our new and returning students to the University of Minnesota. They represent the best and brightest from across our state, the country and the world,” said University President Joan Gabel. “They’ve accomplished a lot individually to earn a spot at our world-class research University. Now that they’re part of our University family, we look forward to supporting their learning and discovery, lifting up their successes and helping them become the next leaders for Minnesota and beyond.”

The 2022 fall class is also the University’s most racially and ethnically diverse, with 34% of freshmen identifying as members of a BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) community, according to the University.

In addition, 6% of the class is made up of international students, an increase over last year.

The University says they saw significant increases in applications for this class from Indigenous students (up 25% year-over-year), Black students (up 24%) and Hispanic students (up 22%). There will be more Indigenous and Black students in this year’s freshman class than any on record.

The University says that their investment in scholarships and comprehensive student support programs remains high, with approximately $49 million distributed to students this year alone, according to the University.

The University’s recently expanded Promise Program ensures eligible Minnesota students whose family income is less than $50,000 can attend the University of Minnesota tuition free, while additional financial aid programs offer tuition assistance for students from almost any lower-or middle-income family.

To read more on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities fall 2022 class, CLICK HERE.