Minnesota State enrollment reaches 172,879 students

Enrollment within the Minnesota State system of 33 colleges and universities remained stable for the start of the 2026-2027 academic year, with a total headcount of 172,879 students. This represents a slight increase of 535 students compared to fall 2025.

The data shows a divergence between institutions: the system's 26 colleges saw an increase of 1,724 students (a 1.5 percent rise), while the seven universities experienced a decline of 1,189 students (a 2.1 percent drop).

Among the universities, Winona State and Minnesota State-Moorhead saw growth, while Minnesota State-Mankato, St. Cloud State, Metropolitan State, Southwest Minnesota State, and Bemidji State reported declines. Normandale Community College saw the largest enrollment increase among colleges, while Minnesota West Community & Technical College saw the largest decrease.